Moroccans call it "liquid gold", and for good reason. Yet many women buy a bottle of argan oil and end up with hair that feels greasy, flat, or exactly the same as before. Nine times out of ten, the issue is technique, not the oil. Here are the three ways we recommend using it, the right amount for your hair, and the mistakes to skip.
Why argan oil?
Pressed from the kernels of the argan tree in south-west Morocco, argan oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, yet lighter than heavy oils like castor. That makes it suitable for most hair types, before and after washing. It helps with:
- Softness and moisture for dry, rough lengths
- Frizz control, especially in Gulf summer humidity
- Shine — well-moisturised hair reflects more light
- Healthier-looking ends — moisturised hair snaps less when combed, which helps you keep your length
Choose a pure, cold-pressed oil like our pure Moroccan argan oil (100, 250 or 500 ml). More in the argan oil collection.
Method 1: Pre-wash oiling
The most effective option for dry, coloured or heat-styled hair.
- Start with dry or slightly damp hair, sectioned into four.
- Warm the oil gently by standing a small bowl in warm water for a minute — no microwave.
- Work it through the lengths and ends first, then the scalp if it's dry.
- Massage the scalp with your fingertips for 3-5 minutes.
- Cover with a shower cap or warm towel.
- Leave for 30 minutes to 2 hours — overnight isn't necessary.
- Shampoo twice, applying shampoo before water on the first round.
| Hair length | Amount |
|---|---|
| Short | 1 tsp |
| Medium | 2 tsp |
| Long or thick | 1 tbsp or a little more |
Once or twice a week.
Method 2: A few drops after washing
Pat hair dry with a cotton towel, rub 2-4 drops between your palms and smooth over the lower half and ends, avoiding the roots. Comb through with a wide-tooth comb. Prefer something lighter? Try the Argan Rose Crystal Hair Serum.
Method 3: Scalp care
For a dry scalp, apply a few drops along your partings with a dropper, massage gently, leave for an hour and wash. If your scalp is oily, keep the oil on your lengths. See our scalp care collection.
A simple weekly routine
- Oiling day: argan oil for an hour, then a gentle shampoo like Al Hourra Argan Oil Shampoo
- Every wash: Argan Rose Natural Hair Conditioner on the lengths for two minutes
- Daily: two drops of oil or serum on the ends
Browse more in hair care.
Mistakes that weigh it down
- Too much oil after washing — two drops is plenty
- Daily oil on the roots, especially with an oily scalp
- Only one shampoo after an oil session
- Diluted oil — genuine argan is light gold, faintly nutty, and absorbs within minutes
- Overheating it
- Expecting a transformation after one use — softness is instant; stronger-looking ends take weeks
FAQ
Does argan oil make hair grow longer?
It doesn't change how fast hair grows, but it moisturises the lengths and reduces breakage — so you keep more of the length you grow. See our hair growth collection for more.
Is it okay for oily hair?
Yes, on the lengths and ends only, in a very small amount.
Can I use it on coloured hair?
Yes — it's one of the best oils for colour-dried hair. Wait 48 hours after colouring before an oil session.
Wet or dry hair?
Pre-wash oiling on dry or slightly damp hair; daily drops on towel-dried hair.
Does it protect from heat styling?
It helps moisture, but it isn't a heat protectant. Use a dedicated one and lower the heat.
How long does 100 ml last?
For medium-length hair with daily drops and a weekly oiling, usually two to three months.
Order from Lotus Flower
Lotus Flower Honey & Herbs: 100% authentic Moroccan products, in the UAE since 1998. Delivery in 1-3 working days to all emirates, with an AED 15 delivery fee and free delivery on orders over AED 150. Pay cash on delivery, by card, or in 4 interest-free payments with Tabby. Return or exchange any product within 7 days of delivery, including opened products.
Not sure what to choose? Chat with us on WhatsApp +971502028263, or visit our shop or our stand in the Moroccan Pavilion at Global Village during the season.
