INCI: Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
Oil from argania fruit kernels. Contains oleic and linoleic acids, tocopherols, and sterols. Moisturizes, softens, and supports the lipid barrier.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Pilot studies show improved skin elasticity and reduced TEWL with daily use. Evidence base is limited by small sample sizes. Antioxidant properties confirmed in vitro.
Argan Oil is a cold-pressed oil from the kernels of Argania spinosa fruit, endemic to southwestern Morocco. Fatty acid profile: oleic 43–49%, linoleic 29–36%, palmitic 11–15%. Contains 600–800 mg/kg tocopherols, sterols (schottenol, spinasterol), and squalene fractions. Mechanism. Emollient – softens skin via fatty acids filling intercellular spaces of the stratum corneum. Linoleic acid supports ceramide synthesis in the epidermis. Tocopherols give antioxidant protection. Sterols are anti-inflammatory via PLA2 suppression. Where applied. Face and body creams and oils (1–100%), hair masks, cuticle serums, lip balms. In Spain popular lines: Cantabria Labs, La Roche-Posay Lipikar Huile Lavante. Pure Moroccan oil – Acure, Josie Maran. Evidence base. Boucetta 2015 (n=60, 12 weeks, 100% oil on face and body) showed 19% increase in hydration and 14% TEWL reduction. In menopausal skin, Boucetta 2014 (n=60, 8 weeks) confirmed reduction in postmenopausal dryness. For hair – improved shine and elasticity (Lin 2016, n=30). Safety. CIR confirmed safety. Hypoallergenic (unlike nut oils from the family). Non-comedogenic (comedogenicity 0). Allergies rare in patients reactive to Sapindaceae. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Acceptable at any stage, including breast and abdomen for stretch-mark prevention. Often included in pregnancy formulas (Mustela Maternité). Particularly suitable for. Dry, dehydrated, mature skin, postmenopausal dryness, hair (damaged, colored). Not for oily skin and active acne (despite comedogenicity 0, squalane or jojoba are better for oily skin).
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Argan Oil is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Argan Oil suits: dry, normal, combination.
Oil from argania fruit kernels.
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
The INCI name is Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil. It may also appear as: Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Аргановое масло, Масло арганы.
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