Last Updated on September 16, 2023 by Verna Meachum

Hello, curly-haired friends! If you’ve ever delved into the world of hair care, you’ve probably come across the term ‘argan oil’. This golden elixir has been touted as a miracle worker for various hair types, but today, we’re diving deep into its benefits specifically for curly hair.

With its rich nutrients and antioxidants, argan oil benefits for curly hair encompass deep hydration, frizz control, enhanced elasticity, and protection from environmental damage. This natural gem ensures curls stay luscious, vibrant, and resilient, making it a vital part of any curly-haired individual’s beauty regimen.

Join us as we unravel the mysteries of argan oil, highlight its indispensable role in enhancing and caring for curls, and explain how to best use it for your curly hair.

What is Argan Oil?

Argan oil is an unrefined vegetable oil, commonly referred to as “virgin oil.” It is derived from the argan tree, scientifically known as Argania spinosa (L.) Skeels. The extraction process is meticulous, often involving hand-pressing, which contributes to its precious nature.

Rich in essential nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins, argan oil has been used for centuries in traditional Moroccan medicine and beauty routines.

Chemical Composition of Argan Oil

To truly appreciate the benefits of argan oil, it’s essential to understand its chemical makeup:

Fatty Acids: Argan oil primarily consists of unsaturated fatty acids, making up 80% of its composition, with the predominant ones being oleic and linoleic acid. It contains roughly 19g of saturated fatty acids per 100g. Notably, the presence of linoleic acid is influenced by the geographical location.

Argan oil also contains two saturated fatty acids: stearic acid, which ranges from 3.14 to 3.28 g/100 g, and palmitic acid, ranging from 11.70 to 11.75 g/100 g.

Other fatty acids like myristic acid (C14:0), palmitoleic acid (C16:1), arachidic acid (C20:0), and behenic acid (C22:0) are present but in smaller amounts.

These unsaturated fatty acids play a crucial role in nourishing the hair and maintaining moisture.

Tocopherols: Argan oil has a high concentration of tocopherols. It is potent antioxidant that protects hair from environmental damage and strengthens hair fibers.

Polyphenols: Argan oil contains significant amounts of polyphenols, which is unsaturated fatty acid and bioactive molecules. These act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, helping to protect and soothe the scalp.

Sterols: Sterols are also known as phytosterols. They are prevalent compounds in argan oil, following fatty acids. Known for their moisture retention properties, sterols give argan oil its ability to hydrate and lock in moisture.

Squalene: A natural emollient, squalene helps in softening the hair and improving its elasticity.

Argan Oil Benefits for Curly Hair: A Match Made in Heaven

Now, let’s delve into why argan oil is particularly beneficial for curly hair:

• Moisture Retention: Curly hair tends to be drier than straight hair due to its bends and twists along its structure. The fatty acids in argan oil penetrate the hair shaft, providing deep hydration and preventing moisture loss.
• Frizz Control: The emollient properties of argan oil smooth out the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and giving curls a defined, sleek appearance.
• Enhanced Elasticity: Curly hair is prone to breakage, especially when brushed or styled. Argan oil’s nutrients improve hair elasticity, making it more resilient to breakage.
• Protection: The antioxidants in argan oil shield curly hair from environmental aggressors like UV rays, pollution, and heat, ensuring your curls remain vibrant and healthy.
• Scalp Health: A healthy scalp is the foundation of healthy curls. Argan oil’s anti-inflammatory properties soothe the scalp, preventing issues like dandruff and itchiness.
• Deep Conditioner: Argan oil’s rich composition makes it an ideal deep conditioner for curly hair. The deep penetration of argan oil combined with a conditioner revitalizes dry and damaged curls, making them softer and more manageable.
• Heat Styling: While it’s best to minimize the use of heat on curly hair, if you do choose to style with heat, argan oil can act as a protective barrier. Argan oil forms a protective layer on the hair, reducing the potential damage caused by high temperatures. It not only shields the hair from heat but also reduces the loss of natural moisture.

How to Use Argan Oil for Curly Hair

Argan oil’s versatility makes it a staple for curly hair care. Here’s a detailed guide on how to incorporate it into your routine:

• Deep Conditioning Treatment:
  • How: Mix a few drops of argan oil with your regular conditioner or hair mask.
  • Why: The oil enhances the moisturizing properties of your conditioner, penetrating deep into the hair shaft for intense hydration.
  • Frequency: Once a week or as needed, depending on hair dryness.
• Styling Serum:
  • How: After washing and towel-drying your hair, warm a few drops of argan oil between your palms. Gently scrunch or smooth it into your damp curls, working from the tips upwards.
  • Why: This helps in defining curls, reducing frizz, and adding a natural shine.
  • Frequency: Every time you wash or style your hair.
• Overnight Treatment:
  • How: Before bedtime, apply a generous amount of argan oil to your hair, focusing on the ends. Wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf or use a satin / silk pillowcase to prevent friction.
  • Why: This allows the oil to deeply nourish and repair your hair while you sleep, resulting in softer and more manageable curls in the morning.
  • Frequency: Once a week or when your hair feels particularly dry or damaged.
• Scalp Massage:
  • How: Take a few drops of argan oil and massage it gently into your scalp using circular motions.
  • Why: Massaging with argan oil can stimulate blood flow to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth and overall scalp health. It also helps in preventing dandruff and itchiness.
  • Frequency: 1-2 times a week.

Argan Oil Products for Curly Hair

Here are our top argan oil product recommendations:

Argan Oil by Kate Blanc

This is 100% pure organic Moroccan argan oil that is virgin cold pressed. There are two types of Argan oil from Kate Blanc; a light version that has a milder scent and color, and a nutty version that offers a stronger aroma. It is a non-greasy oil that helps hydrate dry scalps, repairs damaged and frizzy hair, and conditions for a lustrous look.

Now Solutions Argan Oil

This is organic argan oil that is rich in fatty acids. It’s a versatile product that enhances hair shine, moisturizes skin, scalp, and nail cuticles, and protects against environmental elements. Its easy absorption also helps maintain a balanced skin pH.

Moroccan Argan Oil

This is 100% Pure USDA Certified Organic Virgin Moroccan Argan Oil, sourced directly from Morocco. Cold-pressed, unrefined, rich in Vitamin E and essential fatty acids with quick absorption. Bottled in the USA to high standards, with a reduced nutty scent. Ideal for treating dry, damaged hair and scalp, taming curly frizz, moisturizing, and promoting hair growth.

Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream

This all-in-one-curl defining cream solution helps to defines and nourishes curls, eliminating the need for multiple products.

OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Conditioner

This conditioner revitalizes damaged, dry hair, offering silky radiance and easy detangling. It also deeply moisturizes, fortifying hair’s strength and elasticity, leaving strands soft and touchable.

Cantu Argan Oil Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream

This is a hydrating formula with pure argan oil and natural oils, free from drying alcohol and silicones. Strengthens heat-styled and colored hair, adding elasticity. Protects damaged hair and boosts natural shine.

ArtNaturals Argan Oil Hair Mask

This argan oil hair mask works for all hair types and color-treated hair. It is a potent natural moisturizer known for hydrating and repairing hair damage from sun, blow-drying, and styling. This hair mask will revitalize your hair’s shine and luster.

Conclusion

Incorporating argan oil into your curly hair routine can be a game-changer. Its myriad benefits, from deep hydration to frizz control, make it an invaluable asset for maintaining the health and beauty of your curls. Remember, a little goes a long way, so start with a few drops and adjust based on your hair’s needs.