Argan oil is one of the most widely used plant oils in skincare. The oil is extracted from the nuts of the argan tree (Argania spinosa) from Morocco and contains vitamin E, oleic acid, and linoleic acid. On the skin and face, argan oil is known as a light, versatile oil that absorbs well, supports the skin barrier, and leaves the skin feeling smooth. In this article, you’ll read what argan oil is good for, how to use it, and what to expect for each skin type.
- What is argan oil good for?
- Argan oil for the face
- By skin type: what role does argan oil play?
- How do you use argan oil on the skin?
- Argan oil for the body, hands, and nails
- Buying argan oil: what should you look for?
- Frequently asked questions
What is argan oil good for?
Argan oil is widely used as a nourishing oil for the skin, hair, and body. The oil has a light to medium texture, absorbs well, and leaves no greasy residue — making it suitable for daily use. On the skin, argan oil is traditionally used as a daily base oil, as evening care, and as makeup remover.
The fatty acid profile of argan oil consists largely of oleic acid (omega-9) and linoleic acid (omega-6). Both fatty acids are also found in the skin's natural lipids and are therefore well tolerated. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant and supports the skin barrier. You can read more about the composition and function of plant oils in our blog on the oil guide for every skin type.
Argan oil for the face
On the face, argan oil is used as a daily oil after cleansing, as an evening oil for a richer night treatment, and as a light makeup remover for cleansing the face. It fits into a basic three-step routine: cleanse, hydrosol (rose water), argan oil as the final step.
As daily care
One to two drops on slightly damp skin after cleansing — most effective immediately after applying a hydrosol, so the oil locks in the moisture. Spread by gently patting with your fingertips. During the day, enough as a base under SPF. Read more about how to use a facial oil in our blog on using facial oil.
As evening care
In the evening, an extra drop can be added for a richer treatment. Argan oil can also be combined with a serum as an intermediate step. The oil absorbs quickly and leaves the skin feeling smoother and more comfortable in the morning. For dry or mature skin, avocado oil is a richer alternative.
As makeup remover
A few drops of argan oil on a cotton pad effectively dissolve waterproof makeup. Gently massage in circular motions, wipe away the dirt with a clean side of the cotton pad, and then cleanse the face as usual. A gentle method that does not dry out the skin like some conventional cleansers.
By skin type: what role does argan oil play?
Dry skin
Argan oil works well as a day and night oil. Combine it with avocado oil as a night oil for extra nourishment for very dry skin.
Normal skin
An ideal base oil for daily use. Light enough for the day, nourishing enough for the evening.
Oily or combination skin
Argan oil is generally well tolerated but somewhat richer than jojoba oil. For very oily skin, jojoba oil or hemp seed oil is a lighter choice.
Sensitive skin
Argan oil is well tolerated by most sensitive skin types. Always do a patch test first. Choose pure, fragrance-free oil.
Mature skin
Widely used as a daily base oil for mature skin. Pairs well with rosehip oil as a night oil.
Acne-prone skin
Argan oil has a low comedogenic rating but is slightly richer than jojoba or hemp seed oil. If in doubt, start with jojoba oil.
Read more about which oil suits your skin best in our oil guide.
How do you use argan oil on the skin?
- Cleanse the face with a gentle cleanser or a clay mask.
- Apply a hydrosol — rose water or lavender water — to slightly damp skin.
- Pat one to two drops of argan oil into the palm of your hand, warm briefly, and apply to the face while the skin is still slightly damp.
- During the day: then apply SPF if desired.
- In the evening: leave as is, or add an extra drop for a richer night treatment.
Starting with a small amount is always the recommendation: one drop for the first two weeks, then adjust as needed. Read more tips in our blog about ingredients for the skin.
Argan oil for the body, hands, and nails
On the body, argan oil is applied to still-damp skin immediately after showering. It is lighter than avocado oil and spreads easily over larger areas of skin. Especially suitable for dry areas such as elbows, knees, and shins.
On hands and cuticles, a small amount of argan oil works as a nourishing evening treatment. Massage into the cuticles for smoother, hydrated skin around the nail. Read more uses in our article about argan oil for hair.
Buying pure argan oil: what should you look for?
Pure argan oil has one ingredient: Argania spinosa kernel oil. The oil is golden yellow in color and has a light, nutty scent. Always check the label when buying: mixed products with multiple ingredients are not pure argan oil. Choose cold-pressed, organically certified argan oil in dark glass packaging that protects against light and oxidation.
Our argan oil is 100% organic, cold-pressed, and free from additives — produced by Berber women's cooperatives in the Agadir region. View our argan oil collection.
Also view our argan oil collection, our Bulgarian rose water and our collection of natural oils.
Frequently asked questions
What is argan oil good for on the skin?
Argan oil is used on the skin as a daily base oil that supports the skin barrier and reduces moisture loss. It absorbs well, leaves no greasy layer, and is tolerated by almost all skin types. On the face, it is used as a day or night oil after cleansing, as makeup remover, and as a light evening treatment. On the body, it is used as post-shower care on damp skin.
Argan oil face benefits: what are the main ones?
The main reasons people use argan oil on the face: light texture that absorbs quickly, broadly tolerated by all skin types, contains vitamin E and essential fatty acids that match the skin's lipids, suitable as a daily oil under SPF, as evening care, and as a gentle makeup remover. The oil leaves the skin feeling smooth and comfortable without greasiness.
Is argan oil good for wrinkles?
Argan oil is widely used on mature skin as a daily base oil that supports the skin barrier. Fine lines caused by moisture loss become less visible when the skin is well hydrated and the barrier functions properly. Structural wrinkles caused by collagen and elastin loss do not respond to cosmetic oils. Argan oil is a supportive skincare oil, not a medically active product.
Argan oil skin experiences: what do users describe?
Users of argan oil on the skin describe, after consistent daily use, a smoother, more comfortable-feeling skin that feels less tight after cleansing. The most commonly reported positive experience is with daily use as a base oil: the skin feels softer and looks nourished. People with dry skin describe the most benefit. The most common tip: start with one drop and build up.
Is argan oil good for sensitive skin?
Argan oil is well tolerated by most sensitive skin types. It contains no fragrance or essential oils and has a broadly tolerated fatty acid profile. For very sensitive skin, jojoba oil is the safest starting point because of its wax ester composition, which more closely resembles the skin's own sebum. Always do a patch test with a new oil: apply a small amount to the inside of the wrist and wait 24 hours.
Buying pure argan oil: what do you need to know?
Pure argan oil contains only one ingredient: Argania spinosa kernel oil. The oil is golden yellow in color and has a light nutty scent. Choose cold-pressed, organically certified argan oil in a dark glass bottle. Avoid products with multiple ingredients on the label or vague descriptions such as "argan blend". Our organic argan oil is 100% pure, cold-pressed, and supplied in dark glass.
Argan oil or jojoba oil: which should you choose for the face?
Argan oil is slightly richer and more nourishing — ideal for dry, normal, or mature skin. Jojoba oil is lighter and has the lowest comedogenic rating — ideal for oily, combination, or acne-prone skin and as a starting point for sensitive skin. For most people, argan oil is the better daily oil for dry or normal skin; jojoba wins for oily or reactive skin.
How often should you use argan oil on the face?
Argan oil is suitable for daily use, morning and evening. Start with once a day — preferably in the evening — and observe how your skin reacts over two weeks. Then add a morning step if your skin tolerates it well. Always finish with SPF during the day. One to two drops is enough for the whole face; more offers no extra benefit and can feel greasy.
