Argan Oil

Even though there are tons (and we mean tons) of oils available in the skincare world, they can still be a little confusing. After all, if you’ve dealt with even the slightest amount of excess oil on your face, the idea of slicking your skin in a greasy liquid seems counterintuitive, to say the least.

But here’s the thing: Not all oils are created equal. So yes, while there are some oils that aren’t right for every skin type, others truly are not only ok for all skin types (even acne-prone!) to use, but even beneficial. One such wonder ingredient? Argan oil. 

What is Argan Oil?

Argan oil is a plant oil extracted from the kernels of the fruit pit of the argan tree (aka Argania spinosa) which grows in Morocco. “Traditionally, the oil extraction is a cold-pressed process—it’s done by exerting mechanical pressure with little to no applied heat,” explains New York-based board-certified dermatologist Kenneth Howe, MD. However, he notes, "The growing popularity and demand for argan oil has led to industrialized extraction methods which utilize solvents."

Though argan oil is most known for being particularly beneficial to dry, dull skin, "it has also been considered for acne as it is considered non-comedogenic and won’t leave the skin feeling greasy," explains New York-based board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD. It is not only safe, but can also be beneficial to all skin types. 

Argan Oil Benefits For Skin 

• Rich in antioxidants: Argan oil is rich in antioxidants that help protect against environmental damage, like polyphenols and vitamin E. This vitamin is well loved in skincare for its anti-aging and skin softening properties. Both help scavenge free radicals, helping to maintain skin’s youthfulness. 

• Rich in fatty acids: “AO is extremely rich in fatty acids, with about 95% of it consisting of fatty acids,” Howe notes. These offer moisture and nourishment to the skin. 

• Anti-inflammatory: Another benefit of fatty acids like oleic and linoleic acids is that they’re also anti-inflammatory. “Not only does this make it an option to soothe irritated skin, but, due to these anti-inflammatory properties, it has also been considered for acne as it is considered non-comedogenic and won’t leave the skin feeling greasy,” Garhick says. 

• Moisturizing: “In general, argan oil can be used by all skin types as those with dry skin will benefit from its moisturizing properties, while those with oily skin may also find it tolerable as it is lightweight and won’t leave the skin feeling greasy,” Garshick says. Again, it’s a common misconception that only dry skin needs moisture. Everyone’s skin needs moisture. 

• Helps prevent transepidermal water loss: Argan oil provides healing and sealing to the skin's outer layer, which doesn't just improve appearance—it also prevents further drying and damage. “It does this by putting a stop to the transepidermal water loss (literally moisture leaking from the skin and evaporating into the air) which is caused by disruptions to the skin’s outermost barrier,” Howe explains.

Side Effects

For the most part, argan oil does not have any side effects. “It is generally well tolerated, though some can experience some mild sensitivity,” Garshick says. However, proceed with caution if you have an inflammatory skin condition, as these, Howe explains, can be aggravated by external oils. “For example,” he notes, “seborrheic dermatitis is exacerbated by oils applied to the skin surface.” 

How To Use It 

Argan oil is often found in single ingredient oil formulas, however, it can also be found in the ingredient lists of moisturizers, face masks, eye creams, and more. Brands like Josie Maran and Kahina incorporate the hero oil into nearly every product they make. Argan oil can be used once or twice daily (it is appropriate for morning and evening skincare routines) as a final step in a routine, layered over your cream, or to seal in moisture.

Derm Tip: Pay attention to how your skin reacts if you use argan oil in a routine with the other ingredients you use. “The oleic acid and linoleic acid found in argan oil are thought to be penetration enhancers, and help improve penetration of other ingredients into the skin and can also reduce inflammation,” Garshick notes.

Especially in combination with actives, this is something to be aware of, because enhanced penetration of, say, a retinol serum isn’t always desired. “Especially for those with sensitive skin, the best way to avoid this is to slowly ease into using any new product and introduce only one new item at a time, so you know if your skin is reacting, what the trigger may be.” In short, when using products that contain linoleic and oleic acids, make sure to use them as instructed.