Argan Oil
Oil from argania fruit kernels. Contains oleic and linoleic acids, tocopherols, and sterols. Moisturizes, softens, and supports the lipid barrier.
Evidence by route
Topical application
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.
- Boucetta KQ et al. Clin Interv Aging. 2015;10:339-349. PMID 25673976
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Dry, Normal, Combination
About this ingredient
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).
Frequently asked questions
Is Argan Oil safe during pregnancy?
Argan Oil is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Argan Oil for?
Argan Oil suits: dry, normal, combination.
What is Argan Oil and what does it do in cosmetics?
Oil from argania fruit kernels.
Is Argan Oil comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Argan Oil?
The INCI name is Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil. It may also appear as: Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil.
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