Argan Oil for Skin: Benefits, Uses & Why It Works
Argan oil has been used for centuries in Morocco for cooking, skincare and hair care — but over the past decade it's become one of the most popular ingredients in the global beauty industry. And for good reason. Using argan oil for skin delivers deep nourishment, protection and repair that very few single ingredients can match. But what exactly makes it so special, and how should you be using it? Let's get into everything you need to know.
What is argan oil?
Argan oil is a plant oil extracted from the kernels of the argan tree (Argania spinosa), which grows almost exclusively in Morocco. The oil is produced through a cold-pressing process that preserves its rich nutritional profile — making it one of the most nutrient-dense oils available for skincare.
Sometimes called "liquid gold," argan oil has a lightweight, non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly into the skin. It's rich in fatty acids, vitamin E, antioxidants and squalene — all of which play a role in keeping skin healthy, hydrated and protected.
Argan oil benefits for skin
So is argan oil good for skin? Absolutely. Here are the specific argan oil benefits for skin that make it such a powerful ingredient:
Intensely hydrating. Argan oil is packed with oleic acid (omega-9) and linoleic acid (omega-6), which deeply nourish and hydrate the skin. Unlike heavier oils, it absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue — making it ideal for daily use on the face and body.
Rich in vitamin E. Vitamin E is one of the most potent antioxidants for skin. It protects against free radical damage from UV exposure and pollution, supports the skin's natural repair processes and helps maintain a strong moisture barrier. Argan oil is one of the richest natural sources of vitamin E.
Regulates sebum production. This is what makes argan oil for skin particularly impressive — it actually helps balance oil production. If your skin is oily, argan oil can signal to the sebaceous glands to slow down sebum output. If your skin is dry, it provides the nourishment your skin is craving. This balancing effect makes it suitable for virtually every skin type.
Anti-inflammatory. The combination of vitamin E, polyphenols and fatty acids gives argan oil natural anti-inflammatory properties. It can soothe redness, calm irritation and reduce the swelling associated with acne, eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Fades dark marks and scars. Regular use of argan oil can help improve the appearance of post-acne scarring, dark marks and uneven skin tone. The vitamin E and essential fatty acids support skin cell regeneration, gradually evening out discolouration and improving texture.
Anti-ageing support. Argan oil's antioxidant content helps protect skin from the oxidative stress that accelerates ageing. The fatty acids maintain elasticity and plumpness, while vitamin E supports collagen integrity — helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and keep skin looking youthful.
Non-comedogenic. Despite being an oil, argan oil doesn't clog pores. Its high linoleic acid content makes it lightweight enough for acne-prone skin, and its sebum-regulating properties mean it's unlikely to cause breakouts.
Is argan oil good for all skin types?
Yes — and that's what makes it such a versatile ingredient. Here's how argan oil for skin works across different skin types:
Oily skin: Argan oil helps regulate sebum production, reducing excess shine without stripping the skin. It's one of the best oils for people who think they can't use face oils.
Dry skin: The omega fatty acids deeply hydrate and repair the moisture barrier, relieving tightness, flaking and rough texture.
Combination skin: Argan oil balances both dry and oily areas, hydrating where needed and controlling oil where it's excessive.
Sensitive skin: Its anti-inflammatory properties make it calming and soothing — ideal for skin that reacts easily to products or environmental triggers.
Acne-prone skin: Because it's non-comedogenic and regulates oil production, argan oil can actually help reduce breakouts rather than cause them. It also fades post-acne marks over time.
Mature skin: The antioxidants and vitamin E support firmness, elasticity and repair — making it an excellent daily oil for ageing skin.
How to use argan oil on your skin
Argan oil is easy to incorporate into any skincare routine. Here's how to get the most from it:
As a facial oil. After cleansing and toning, warm two to three drops of argan oil between your fingertips and press gently into the face, neck and décolletage. Use morning and evening. In the morning, apply before SPF. In the evening, use as the last step to lock in moisture overnight.
As an oil cleanser. Argan oil makes an excellent oil cleanser. Massage a small amount into dry skin to dissolve makeup, SPF and excess sebum, then rinse with warm water or follow with a water-based cleanser for a thorough double cleanse.
As a beard oil. Argan oil is one of the best natural oils for conditioning beards and moustaches. It softens facial hair, reduces itching and nourishes the skin underneath — keeping beards healthy and well-groomed.
Mixed with other products. Add a drop or two of argan oil to your moisturiser, foundation or body lotion for an extra boost of hydration and nourishment.
Consistency is key. Like all natural skincare ingredients, argan oil delivers the best results with consistent, daily use over four to eight weeks.
Argan oil for hair — does it work?
Argan oil isn't just brilliant for skin — it's one of the most effective natural hair treatments available. The vitamin E and fatty acids coat the hair shaft, reducing frizz, adding shine and protecting against heat damage. It also nourishes the scalp, which can help with dryness and flaking.
To use argan oil on hair, warm a few drops between your palms and smooth through damp or dry hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. It works as a leave-in treatment, a pre-wash mask or a finishing oil to tame flyaways and add gloss.
For beards specifically, argan oil is a staple. It keeps facial hair soft and manageable while conditioning the skin beneath — preventing the dryness and irritation that often comes with growing a beard.
Add argan oil to your routine
If you're ready to experience the argan oil benefits for skin yourself, try Sustain (oil cleansing protection) from Like It On Top. Sustain is formulated with organic argan virgin oil as its lead ingredient, alongside avocado oil, sweet almond oil, rosehip oil and vitamin E — delivering all the nourishing, balancing and repairing benefits of argan oil in one versatile product. Use it as an oil cleanser, a daily facial oil or as part of the 4-Step Kit for a complete skincare routine. Handmade, natural and vegan. Also available in a nut-free formula.
Looking for more? Browse our bestselling skincare products to find your perfect natural skincare routine.