Frequently asked questions - Argan oil

Some frequently asked questions about argan oil
USE AND APPLICATION
How often can argan oil be used?
For the face: Daily, morning and/or evening. Argan oil is non-comedogenic and can be used every day without risk of saturation.
For hair:
- For daily care: a few drops on the ends
- As an intensive mask: once or twice a week
- Oil treatment: once a week for very dry hair
Can argan oil be applied to wet or dry skin?
It's ideal on slightly damp skin! After cleansing your face, gently pat dry with a towel and apply the argan oil to your face immediately. The moisture helps the oil penetrate better and seals in hydration.
How many drops of argan oil should you use?
Face: 2-3 drops are sufficient for the entire face and neck Short/medium-length hair: 3-5 drops Long hair: 5-8 drops Body: 1 teaspoon per area
⚠️ Less is more! Always start with a small amount.
Can argan oil be mixed with other oils?
Absolutely! Argan oil goes perfectly with:
- Jojoba oil: for combination to oily skin
- Castor oil: for hair growth
- Sweet almond oil: for enhanced hydration
- Rosehip oil: for a boosted anti-aging effect
Recommended ratio: 50/50 or 70% argan oil / 30% other oil
Can argan oil be used under moisturizer?
Yes, in two ways:
- As a serum: Apply argan oil before your cream (it penetrates better).
- Blended: Add 1-2 drops directly to your usual cream.
SAFETY AND CONTRAINDICATIONS
Can argan oil cause allergies?
Allergies to argan oil are very rare, but possible.
Recommended tolerance test:
- Apply one drop to the crook of your elbow.
- Wait 24 hours
- If there is no redness/itching: it's fine!
Warning: People with nut allergies should exercise caution.
Can argan oil be used during pregnancy?
Yes, it's safe! Argan oil is even excellent during pregnancy:
- Prevents stretch marks (belly, breasts, thighs)
- Hydrates stretching skin
- 100% natural, safe for babies
Argan oil is also beneficial for omega fatty acids during pregnancy.
Is argan oil suitable for children and babies?
Yes, from 3 months old. Pure argan oil is gentle and natural:
- Moisturizes dry baby skin
- Soothes diaper rash
- Gentle massage
Precaution: Always perform an allergy test beforehand.
Can men use argan oil?
Absolutely! Argan oil is unisex and perfect for:
- Nourish your beard and make it softer
- Moisturize after shaving (soothing)
- Treating short hair or shaved heads
- Caring for men's skin, which is often drier
PRICE AND QUALITY
What is the average price of high-quality argan oil?
For pure argan oil from Morocco:
- 50ml: $15–$25
- 100ml: $25-40
- 250ml: $50–$80
Warning: If it's much cheaper, it's probably:
- Blended with other oils
- Poor quality
- Not reallyargan oil from Morocco
What is the difference between organic and conventional argan oil?
Organic argan oil: ✅ Pesticide-free ✅ Ecocert or equivalent certification ✅ Controlled production process ✅ Better for your skin and the environment
Price: Approximately 20-30% more expensive, but quality guaranteed.
Why are some argan oils much cheaper?
This can sometimes be a warning sign:
- Diluted with less noble oils
- Extracted with chemical solvents (not cold pressed)
- Not really from Morocco
- Risk of improper storage
Pure argan oil from Morocco has a high production cost, which justifies its price.
RESULTS AND EFFECTIVENESS
How long before I see results?
On the face:
- Hydration: immediate
- Brightness: 1-2 weeks
- Wrinkles/firmness: 4-6 weeks of regular use
On hair:
- Shine: from the very first application
- Repair: 2-3 weeks
- Stimulated growth: 2-3 months
As in other areas, the key to success is consistency ! Useargan oil daily.
Does argan oil really make hair grow?
Indirectly, yes! Argan oil does not magically make hair grow, but it ✅ nourishes the scalp, creating a healthy environment for growth ✅ reduces breakage, making our hair appear to grow faster ✅ strengthens the roots, leading to less hair loss.
To boost growth, massage the scalp with argan oil 5-10 minutes before shampooing.
Does argan oil remove scars and stretch marks?
Argan oil can reduce but not completely eliminate:
- Recent scars: visible improvement in 2-3 months
- Old scars: slight reduction
- Red stretch marks: highly effective if treated early
- White stretch marks: improves appearance but does not remove them
Application: Circular massage twice a day for at least 3 months.
Can argan oil replace my night cream?
Yes, for certain skin types!
It can replace it if you:
- have dry to normal skin
- seek a minimalist routine
- prefer 100% natural
She can complete it if you have:
- Very dehydrated skin (add a hydrating serum)
- specific needs (acne, rosacea, etc.)
- mature skin (add an anti-aging active ingredient such as retinol)
TYPES AND VARIETIES
What is the difference between cosmetic and edible argan oil?
| Criterion | Cosmetics | Food |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Light golden yellow | Dark yellow-brown |
| Smell | Light, mild hazelnut | Strong, roasted hazelnut |
| Taste | Not applicable | Pronounced, toasted |
| Manufacturing | Unroasted almonds | Roasted almonds |
| Usage | Skin, hair, nails | Kitchen (cold) |
⚠️ Do not mix them up: food stains and the smell is too strong for the skin!
Cold-pressed vs. refined argan oil: what's the difference?
Cold-pressed (first pressing) RECOMMENDED ✅ Retains all nutrients ✅ Vitamin E intact ✅ Maximumbenefits ofargan oil ✅ Natural color and scent
Refined ❌ It is heated, so there is a loss of nutrients. It is sometimes bleached/deodorized. ❌ It is less effective. ✅ Less expensive (only advantage).
Always choose: "virgin argan oil, first cold pressed." This is the type we offer on our website.
Are there any fair trade certified argan oils?
Yes! Look for the labels:
- Ecocert Fair Trade
- Fair Trade
- Berber women's cooperatives (often mentioned)
These certifications guarantee: ✅ Fair remuneration for producers ✅ Decent working conditions ✅ Environmental protection ✅ Support for local communities
Fairly produced argan oilin Morocco supports women's cooperatives.
STORAGE AND PRESERVATION
How can you store argan oil so that it doesn't go rancid?
The 5 golden rules:
- Amber glass bottle: protects from light
- Protect from heat: 15-20°C ideal, avoid the bathroom
- Tightly closed: prevents oxidation
- Not in the refrigerator: except in very hot climates
- Use within 12 months after opening
Signs that oil is rancid: ❌ Strong, unpleasant odor ❌ Very dark or cloudy color ❌ Sticky texture ➡️ Don't use it anymore!
Can argan oil be stored in the refrigerator?
This is not necessary, but possible if:
- You live in a very hot country (>30°C constantly)
- You have purchased a large size (250ml+)
The oil partially solidifies in cold temperatures. Remove it from the refrigerator 30 minutes before use.
Does argan oil expire?
Yes! Pure argan oil has a limited shelf life:
Unopened: 18-24 months Opened: 12 months maximum
Tip: Write the opening date on the bottle!
Some comparisons
Argan oil vs. coconut oil: which one should you choose?
| Advantage | Argan oil | Coconut oil |
|---|---|---|
| Face | ⭐⭐⭐ Non-comedogenic | ⚠️ Comedogenic (pimples) |
| Fine hair | ⭐⭐⭐ Lightweight | ❌ Too heavy |
| Thick hair | ⭐⭐ Good | ⭐⭐⭐ Excellent |
| Anti-aging | ⭐⭐⭐ Vitamin E | ⭐ Average |
| Price | €€€ | € |
Verdict: Argan oil is more versatile and suitable for the face.
Argan oil vs. jojoba oil: what's the difference?
Argan oil: ✅ Higher in vitamin E ✅ Better for anti-aging ✅ Dry/damaged hair
Jojoba oil: ✅ Better regulates sebum ✅ Perfect for oily skin ✅ Lighter texture
Winning combo: Mix the two 50/50 for combination skin!
Can argan oil be replaced with another oil?
There are possible alternatives depending on the use:
For the face (anti-aging):
- Rosehip oil
- Evening primrose oil
For hair:
- Castor oil (sprout)
- Sweet almond oil (shine)
BUT: none offer the same unique combination of benefits as argan oil!
SPECIFIC USES
Can argan oil be used on eyelashes and eyebrows?
Yes, great idea! Argan oil: ✅ Strengthens eyelashes ✅ Stimulates growth ✅ Makes eyebrows fuller
Application:
- Eyelashes: with a clean mascara brush, in the evening
- Eyebrows: gentle massage with your finger
Results: 4-6 weeks of regular use.
Does argan oil work on nails?
Absolutely! For stronger nails:
- Massage cuticles and nails every evening.
- Argan oil nourishes and prevents split ends.
- Particularly effective after semi-permanent nail polish
Result: Stronger nails in 2-3 weeks.
Can argan oil be used as a makeup remover?
Yes, and it's very effective!
Method:
- Pour 3-4 drops of argan oil onto a cotton pad.
- Gently remove makeup (even waterproof)
- Then clean with a mild gel.
- The oil stays on the skin = double action!
Bonus: Removes makeup AND moisturizes in one step.
Is argan oil effective against eczema and psoriasis?
Yes, very soothing! Argan oil: ✅ Reduces inflammation ✅ Soothes itching ✅ Repairs the skin barrier ✅ Moisturizes dry areas
Use: Apply 2-3 times daily to affected areas.
Important: This does not replace medical treatment, but effectively complements it.
ORIGIN AND ETHICS
Why does the argan tree only grow in Morocco?
The argan tree is endemic to southwestern Morocco for several reasons:
- Unique climate (semi-arid)
- Specific soil
- Thousands of years of adaptation to this region
According to UNESCO, the argan tree area has been classified as a Biosphere Reserve since 1998.
That's why Moroccan argan oil is the only authentic one!
Is argan oil environmentally friendly and sustainable?
Yes, if it's well produced!
Positive points:
- Hardy tree, requires little water
- Preserve Morocco's biodiversity
- Prevents desertification
However:
- Over-exploitation poses a real risk to the ecosystem.
- Choose certified organic argan oils
How can I know if my argan oil truly supports women's cooperatives?
Search for:
- Mention "Berber women's cooperative"
- Fair Trade Certification
- Name of the cooperative on the packaging
- Social labels (UCFA, AMIGHA, etc.)
Buy directly: From brands that are transparent about their sourcing.
SCIENCE AND COMPOSITION
What exactly does argan oil contain?
Composition of pure argan oil:
Fatty acids (80%):
- Oleic acid (omega-9): 45%
- Linoleic acid (omega-6): 35%
Antioxidants:
- Vitamin E: 620 mg/kg (record!)
- Polyphenols
- Sterols (schottenol)
- Carotenoids
It is this unique composition that explains the benefits of argan oil!
Are there any scientific studies on argan oil?
Yes, and there are many! Studies have proven:
✅ Anti-aging effect: Improves skin elasticity (2015 study) ✅ Healing: Accelerates tissue repair (2013 study) ✅ Hydration: Increases hydration by 20% (2014 study) ✅ Hair: Reduces hair breakage (2013 study)
Sources: PubMed, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology
BONUS TIPS
Can you cook with cosmetic argan oil?
NO! Only use edible argan oil for cooking.
The manufacturing process is different (roasting for food).
Does argan oil protect against the sun?
No, it is NOT sunscreen!
Argan oil has a natural SPF of... around 3 (almost zero).
✅ What it does: Repairs skin AFTER exposure ❌ What it doesn't do: Protect against UV rays
Always use a real sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30!
What should you do if you have applied too much argan oil?
Don't panic!
On the face:
- Dab with a tissue
- Or apply to the neck, décolleté, and hands.
On hair:
- Leave on as a mask for 30 minutes.
- Wash with a mild shampoo
Tip: Less is always better with argan oil!




