Argan oil?

[sapphire-o]

I saw some stuff called argan oil on Ebay. Supposed to be good for hair. It's pretty expensive. Has anybody ever tried that? Is it worth its price?

http://cgi.ebay.ca/ARGAN-OIL-Pure-Oil-For-Skin-1-2-Oz-Sample-TRY-IT_W0QQitemZ310034443801QQihZ021QQcategoryZ33164QQ ssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[missy60]

I just seen this oil on ebay today and was wondering about it. It sounds good for older skin also which I have. I was thinking about starting a thread about it to, but I decided not to since I was already ordering alot of other things so I decided to wait to try it later. I will be watch for the replies to this thread.

[ktani]

I researched it last year.

Argan oil
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argan_oil

It is popular with gourmet chefs and is expensive.
http://www.lepicerie.com/catalog/product_164040_Virgin_Argan_Oil.html

Quality needs to be standardised.
http://pubs.acs.org/cgi-bin/abstract.cgi/jafcau/2005/53/i06/abs/jf040290t.html

It has potential health benefits - cardiovascular and cancer
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6WP9-4JDN6DC-1&_user=10&_rdoc=1&_fmt=&_orig=search&_sort=d&view=c&_acct=C000050221&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=10&md5=1b7714978e7e0f5afc71b02c7b7d1afd

but according to Paula Begoun, who is usually up to date on ingredients, there is not much research on its topical use.
http://www.paulaschoice-eu.com/dictionary.asp?TYPE=MAIN

It does have traditional topical uses - see pg 16.
http://www.edmonds-institute.org/outofafrica.pdf
HTML version
http://72.14.205.104/search?q=cache:sbPGYSdnyEsJ:www.edmonds-institute.org/outofafrica.pdf+argan+oil+hair+pubmed&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=10&gl=ca

[shellblue1]

Has anyone here tried this oil on their hair? What were the results?

[akka naeda]

I like it, but it's expensive so I now use it mixed with coconut oil so it lasts a bit longer!

[soleluna]

Never tried it, interested in what you have to say about it!

My Italian friends swear by it, they use it before drying hair/letting hair air dry

[ktani]

I researched it last year after reading about it on the net.

It would not be suitable for blondes IMO, because it is a reddish oil but here is the information that I found.

Argan Oil
"In addition, this study should be useful .... establishement of a national quality standard."
http://pubs.acs.org/cgi-bin/abstract.cgi/jafcau/2005/53/i06/abs/jf040290t.html (http://pubs.acs.org/cgi-bin/abstract.cgi/jafcau/2005/53/i06/abs/jf040290t.html)

Colour of Argan Oil
"Argan oil is a deep golden oil, often with a reddish tinge .... produced from the seeds of the Argan tree .... only grows in Morocco."
http://stores.mustaphas.com/Detail.bok?no=2

Argan health research
"Argan oil reduces cardiovascular risk ...."
"Our findings .... first time .... regular consumption of virgin argan oil .... lowering of LDL cholesterol and has antioxidant properties.
This oil .... additional natural food to reducing cardiovascular risk."
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6WCM-4CB00C4-2&_user=10&_rdoc=1&_fmt=&_orig=search&_sort=d&view=c&_acct=C000050221&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=10&md5=e85812309c14b6dd6e059a6550dd0ed9

Topical use
".... it is an emollient oil (similar to peanut oil) that may have anti-inflammatory properties .... no research supporting that claim. "
http://www.paulaschoice-eu.com/dictionary.asp?TYPE=MAIN (http://www.paulaschoice-eu.com/dictionary.asp?TYPE=MAIN)

Wiki See "Medicinal Uses"
"There has been research into argan oil's .... the treatment of psoriasis .... promising results."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argan_oil (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argan_oil)

Where to purchase
"You can buy argan-oil-based beauty products .... from Argan Body (www.arganbody.com), Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare (www.lizearle.com) and Xandra Renouvelle (www.xandrarenouvelle.com). Argan oil for eating .... from Mustapha’s Moroccan (www.mustaphas.com).
High in vitamin E and essential fatty acids, it is believed to help .... skin conditions: dry skin, acne, psoriasis, eczema, wrinkles.
Moroccans slather it on .... skin, hair, nails and even their babies."
http://travel.nytimes.com/2007/11/18/travel/tmagazine/14get-sourcing-caps.html

[CopperHead]

Argan oil is the only one that my hair likes. It is pricey, but a little goes a long way. It gives a great shine and doesn't seem to get really greasy. It is a very light moisturizing oil. I think I paid about $30 for 4 oz from a culinary website.

[shellblue1]

Never tried it, interested in what you have to say about it!

My Italian friends swear by it, they use it before drying hair/letting hair air dry

What exactly do they like about it?

[shellblue1]

Argan oil is the only one that my hair likes. It is pricey, but a little goes a long way. It gives a great shine and doesn't seem to get really greasy. It is a very light moisturizing oil. I think I paid about $30 for 4 oz from a culinary website.

I saw some on sale on ebay from Hedy's Haven for pretty cheap. Does the oil's thickness compare to any of the other oils we use? For example, coconut oil, olive, jojoba, etc.?

[soleluna]

What exactly do they like about it?

I think that it gives shine and is anti static, but I don't quite remember...

[ktani]

I replaced a wonky link and added information to my earlier post.

[Stephanie]

Thanks for the info, ktani!

I'm not incredibly thrilled that there's now one more oil I want to try...just sayin'...

[ktani]

Stephanie

You are most welcome.

You can look at it this way - you never know when something can pleasantly surprise you and oust your current favorite product - camellia oil has been the oil of interest lately with rave reviews - argan oil? - why not?

[Stephanie]

Ah, yes...I've been eyeing camellia oil, too. :lol:

[Masara]

I bought some argan oil in my local supermarket. It smells wonderful, sort of nutty. It's quite a thick, slow pouring oil and I find that it's very easy for me to use too much. In fact I mainly reserve it for overnight oiling when I know I'm going to wash it out in the morining (but I have very fine, thin hair that is easily weighed down.) As for the extra shine, you're supposed to have, I find I have more and deeper shine with coconut oil. The argan oil doesn't seem to penetrate as well in my hair.

But, as I said, I have fine hair. I think that it could be great on coarser hair. One of my favourite conditioners (the shampoo is good too, but I'm more or less sulphate free now) is dessange sublim'argan which is supposed to be for coarser hair that frizzes in damp.

[ktani]

More on argan oil - including a warning that some argan oil on the market is a blend - not pure argan oil.

"Aziz, the chef at Riad Enija .... warns .... that: “Very often, Argan oil is mixed with other oils but sold as pure oil—"
.... twice as much Vitamin E than normal olive oil, .... very rich in anti-oxidants. .... 80% unsaturated and contains eight essential fatty acids, including Omega 6. Argan oil’s nutritional properties .... first documented in research by renowned Egyptian physician Ibn Al Baytar, in 1219 ...."
http://www.easyjetinflight.com/features/2007/nov/moroccan.html

Where to purchase in the UK
"FOR COOKING
Le Maroc, London W10 Tel. +44 (0)208 968 9783
FOR BEAUTY
Argan oil skin products www.arganics.co.uk"
http://www.easyjetinflight.com/features/2007/nov/moroccan.html

[ktani]

Argan oil research is ongoing.
http://www.magharebia.com/cocoon/awi/xhtml1/en_GB/features/awi/features/2006/11/21/feature-01

A whole page of argan oil research links.
http://www.arganoils.com/argan_research.html


Argan Oil Uses They mention research on skin but do not reference a link and there is none on the links page that I saw for skin.
I am not doubting the oil's benefits - I just prefer to read the research summaries.

"... unique product has been shown to reduce .... fine lines and wrinkles, strengthen elasticity.... improve .... skin’s .... youth and vitality.
.... Researchers .... completed extensive studies identify the benefits .... strongly recommend the cosmetic use of argan oil."
http://www.arganoils.com/arganoil.html


Argan Oil Processing
http://www.arganoils.com/articles/en/argan%20oils%20production%20process%20&%20composition.pdf

Contact page for purchasing argan oil - food and cosmetic use
International shipping
http://www.arganoils.com/contact_argan.html

[Fluke]

I love my argan oil!!! I use it on my hair, damp and dry, on my face after showering, and now and then I eat a spoon of it :)
I bought it because of the research I had read on it, about both the health benefits and the skin/hair conditioning benefits.
I'd say it feels lighter in my hair than say, coconut oil, and my hair feels a little smoother, but the closest thing I can compare it to would be coconut oil, just slightly better :)

[Nitika]

I love argan oil, too! I bought mime fromXandra Renouvelle (http://www.xandrarenouvelle.com/servlet/StoreFront). It's pretty pricey, but really worth it. It lasts a long time. I'm going to reorder.

What do I like about it? It's not as heavy as coconut oil, which I also love, so you can put a little on wet or dry hair without it feeling greasy. It helps tame my thick, coarse hair. I love it on my face, too. I put it under makeup. Yesterday, I forgot it, and I thought my face was going to fall off from feeling to dry.

If you can afford it, try it. If you don't like it on your hair, you're skin will love it.

[ktani]

Great to know that argan oil lives up to the information on websites.

Most oils indigenous to a country are used by the people there - it is what is available - but only the proven ones remain in use and become a tradition, IMO.

Argan oil is also reported to help scarring and treat burns. It is roasted for culinary use then cold pressed, cold pressed only for cosmetics - so it may not be as reddish in colour for cosmetic purposes.

Burns, scarring
http://datagraphx.com/livingbeauty/newsarchives.asp?id=4

A link to a Moroccan Argan Oil Co-operative
home page
http://users.casanet.net.ma/arganier/english/index_en.htm
cosmetic and culinary processes and cosmetic uses
http://users.casanet.net.ma/arganier/english/Lesproduits_en.htm#Arganati

[Nynaeve]

Thanks for the info, ktani!

I'm not incredibly thrilled that there's now one more oil I want to try...just sayin'...

Agreed. Especially sine some of them are somewhat expensive. :(

[ktani]

Both camellia oil and argan oil are being promoted to do similar things - both can be expensive but both require little each application so there is money saved in that.

Also, there are multiple sources where to purchase both oils - the chances of finding a less expensive vendor are very good IMO.

[ChloeDharma]

I might be wrong, but i think i remember reading ages ago when looking for information on Argan oil that the tree or bush thing that produces it is endangered and that by buying the oil you are promoting it to be cultivated instead of chopped down. So for a change if you buy it you can feel like you are doing something good for the environment :)

Anyway i've not tried it but i do keep meaning to, it sounds great :)

[ktani]

ChloeDharma

You are not wrong.

The argan tree is threatened. Here is the information. It is in some of the other links I have posted as well.

I have posted links where argan oil can be purchased including the co-operative link in this post.

".... cooperatives enable poor Berber women to earn a living by producing and selling high quality argan oil for the cosmetic and food markets.
.... the argan is a threatened species."
http://www.idrc.ca/en/ev-56756-201-1-DO_TOPIC.html

one of the co-operatives
http://users.casanet.net.ma/arganier/english/index_en.htm

".... argan tree is a source of income, a regression of the argan tree forest .... the past few years. Nearly half of the forest has disappeared and 600 ha. are lost every year."
http://users.casanet.net.ma/arganier/english/argantree.htm

[ktani]

This link explains why the research on argan has been limited to a degree but has made great progress in the last few years, and more - this was written in 2001. The oil has been studied but there are other properties unique to the "stone" the oil is produced from.

"Argan oil had been studied by many researchers before me" .... author who studied the argan stone claimed that it contained an active principle. .... from that time until I started my research, no one had sought to discover what that principle was.

.... new molecular substances, unique to the argan. .... antimicrobial agent .... antioxydant, and more

.... goal, explains Charrouf, was not to simply help commercialize a product and confirm its medicinal and cosmetic uses .... help the forest users gain greater benefit from the trees. .... convinced .... "that way, they’ll be motivated to protect it and replant it."
http://www.idrc.ca/en/ev-5483-201-1-DO_TOPIC.html

I for one am intrigued. Argan oil is used in many ways not just for hair - it is supposed to be amazing on skin as well.

[ktani]

More information from one of the researchers, who has researched argan oil for over 15 years.

".... this oil that has so many virtues – nutritional, cosmetic, therapeutic ...."

and on the oil quality

.... the project can offer training in literacy, marketing, quality control, and other subjects."

.... cooperatives’ oil meets international health standards and is certified organic."

http://www.idrc.ca/en/ev-5483-201-1-DO_TOPIC.html

[ktani]

Given that another link mentioned that some argan oil on the market is a blend - not pure argan oil but sold as pure - I would buy it from a co-operative.

Here is the co-operative ordering page for the U.S., Canada and more The correct email for Argan3 is infos@argan3.com (infos@argan3.com).
http://users.casanet.net.ma/arganier/english/contact_en.htm

co-operative products
http://users.casanet.net.ma/arganier/english/Lesproduits_en.htm

The cosmetic oil - odour free and lighter in colour - not reddish like the food oil
"ARGANIUM is made out of non-roasted almonds .... free from the well known hazelnut odor .... noticeable in other edible oils."
http://users.casanet.net.ma/arganier/english/Lesproduits_en.htm#Arganium

The food oil. I think that the roasting of the "almonds" gives it the characteristic reddish colour.
http://users.casanet.net.ma/arganier/english/Lesproduits_en.htm#Arganati

"This bottle .... pure Argan Oil for culinary uses. The color of this oil, compared to the Cosmetic Argan Oil, is darker. Unlike the preparation for the Cosmetic Argan Oil, the kernels of the Argan fruit are roasted prior to extraction .... of the oil."
http://www.theposhpeddler.com/argan_culinary.htm

This link from the co-operative page is actually less expensive for the cosmetic oil - 3.8 oz for $25.75 compared to 2 oz for $14.95 in the link above and much more elsewhere.
http://www.argan3.com/english/order.php

[ruby_tuesday]

I just got an Yves Rocher news letter - they came out with a new "Tradition de Hamam" line (can be seen on UKs site: www.yves-rocher.co.uk) based on organic argan oil. I believe this is the first time they're using organic ingredients. I rarely use YR products but I'm really interested in this line. I emailed them today & asked for ingredient lists... will see how natural it really is... That soap looks like a big block of chocolate. *drool* and if the Elixir & Mask are all that natural I'd like to try them in my hair. :bigeyes:

[sapphire-o]

That looks very tempting. :) I just hope it's actually as pure as possible. Their Monoi body oil is 50% mineral oil which I didn't like very much. I suppose at least it's cheap.

[kjara]

I use Argan oil and it's the best I've tried so far :D
It can be expensive but as someone previously said "a little goes a long way" . I use it almost as an Essential Oil and blend it with Coconut oil or Shea Butter :) this way 10 drops are more than enough for my whole head :D
I've tried jojoba and almond so far and I've noticed that if I oil too many times my ends become crunchy but this doesn't happen with argan oil .
Argan oil gives me a very "silky" sensation on my ends . I tried it pure and mixed either with shea butter or coconut oil (sometimes I've mixed all three ) and the result is the same, my ends become soo soft :cloud9:
I've tried shea butter alone but it doesn't give me the same softness . I've yet to try coconut oil alone .
I only use oils and butters as a deep treatment before washing day . My hair is on the fine side and very straight and it doesn't appreciate them as a leave-in :shrug:

A lot of Italian friends buy Argan oil from aromazone (http://www.aroma-zone.com/aroma/accueil_fra.asp) , it's a French site and I've been told the French version has many more products than the English or Spanish one , I don't know why. I haven't tried buying from them yet but I usually vist and drool over many things :p

[jivete]

I wanted to revive this thread because I have decided I'm in love with Argan oil. I bought a couple of the Josie Maran sample bottles off ebay. This is the best oil for my hair. Camellia was my favorite, but this works even better. My hair is very, very fine and most oils leave it too oily. But I've been stretching my washes and I can actually use the Argan in between washes without turning into a stringy grease-ball. My hair absorbs it wonderfully.

It is pretty pricey, but buying it is good in other ways so I'm okay with the price. Don't much care for the smell though...

[ktani]

I wanted to revive this thread because I have decided I'm in love with Argan oil. I bought a couple of the Josie Maran sample bottles off ebay. This is the best oil for my hair. Camellia was my favorite, but this works even better. My hair is very, very fine and most oils leave it too oily. But I've been stretching my washes and I can actually use the Argan in between washes without turning into a stringy grease-ball. My hair absorbs it wonderfully.

It is pretty pricey, but buying it is good in other ways so I'm okay with the price. Don't much care for the smell though...

In the peroxide thread, (in my signaure) argan oil like coconut oil has not been reported to interfere with conventional hair dye uptake. It is absorbed into the hair well enough not to leave a coating on the hair. It can leave the skin sun sensitive, so I suggest keeping it off the scalp during the day if used as a pre-treatment before hair dying or as a pre-wash, when one is going to be in sunlight.

[lonestargal]

I don't know if there are any other ingredients in it or not but I just got an ad from Sally Beauty and they have a sample size of Argan oil for 1.99! I think I'm gonna look into it since the oil has such good reviews here. Just wanted to let ya'll know about the ad!!

[Sissy]

I don't know if there are any other ingredients in it or not but I just got an ad from Sally Beauty and they have a sample size of Argan oil for 1.99! I think I'm gonna look into it since the oil has such good reviews here. Just wanted to let ya'll know about the ad!!

Thanks for posting. I checked into it and it looks liek the one at Sally's does contain other ingredients, it's got a couple cones and such.
Here are the ingredients:
Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethiconol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Fragrance (Parfum), Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Yellow 11 (CI 47000), Red 17 (CI 26100)

Here's the link to the product:
http://www.sallybeauty.com/moroccan-oil/ONEONL16,default,pd.html

I'm not completely against cones so perhaps it's worth a try? I'm not sure if it would really be anything like Argan oil. Although, it advertises itself as " a unique finishing, smoothing and conditioning product derived from Moroccan Argan Trees. Compare to Moroccan Oil and save"

What do you guys think?

[ktani]

Thanks for posting. I checked into it and it looks liek the one at Sally's does contain other ingredients, it's got a couple cones and such.
Here are the ingredients:
Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethiconol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Fragrance (Parfum), Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Yellow 11 (CI 47000), Red 17 (CI 26100)

Here's the link to the product:
http://www.sallybeauty.com/moroccan-oil/ONEONL16,default,pd.html

I'm not completely against cones so perhaps it's worth a try? I'm not sure if it would really be anything like Argan oil. Although, it advertises itself as " a unique finishing, smoothing and conditioning product derived from Moroccan Argan Trees. Compare to Moroccan Oil and save"

What do you guys think?

It may be a nice serum but the amount of argan oil is very small, less than the fragrance and just more that the added colour, which is the last ingredient listed. It will not give you an idea of what using argan oil is like.

[girloctopus]

Oh darn that's a shame about the argan oil at Sally's. I just saw it in the circular today and made a note to pick it up. Now I don't have to :) I'm going to order some and hopefully some camilla oil as well.

Thanks for providing all those links, ktani! All your research I've seen so far is extraordinarily thorough.

[ktani]

Oh darn that's a shame about the argan oil at Sally's. I just saw it in the circular today and made a note to pick it up. Now I don't have to :) I'm going to order some and hopefully some camilla oil as well.

Thanks for providing all those links, ktani! All your research I've seen so far is extraordinarily thorough.

You are most welcome. There is more extensive research on argan oil in the peroxide thread.

[YoginiCelestial]

I don't know if there are any other ingredients in it or not but I just got an ad from Sally Beauty and they have a sample size of Argan oil for 1.99! I think I'm gonna look into it since the oil has such good reviews here. Just wanted to let ya'll know about the ad!!

I just picked up a sample bottle yesterday too at our local Sally Beauty Supply. The bottle is tiny, but for 1.99 wanted to try it. I must say that after only a couple of uses on my ends and strands around my face, I really like it!
It smells incredible, with hints of sweet musk. I think the smell is romantic and made me a little frisky last night! So my hubby benefited too!
:D

[YoginiCelestial]

I just picked up a sample bottle yesterday too at our local Sally Beauty Supply. The bottle is tiny, but for 1.99 wanted to try it. I must say that after only a couple of uses on my ends and strands around my face, I really like it!
It smells incredible, with hints of sweet musk. I think the smell is romantic and made me a little frisky last night! So my hubby benefited too!
:D

Oh also forgot to mention is silky texture oil, not too greasy and great shine!

[Sissy]

You are most welcome. There is more extensive research on argan oil in the peroxide thread.

Thanks, Ktani. I am going to hold off and possibly add some real argan oil to my Christmas list :) I checked and they had the large size at Sally's but I decided against it because as you said, it's not really a good amount of Argan oil in there.

It's nice to hear the Sally's Oil is working well for people though.

[ktani]

Thanks, Ktani. I am going to hold off and possibly add some real argan oil to my Christmas list :) I checked and they had the large size at Sally's but I decided against it because as you said, it's not really a good amount of Argan oil in there.

It's nice to hear the Sally's Oil is working well for people though.

You are most welcome!

[Copasetic]

I was at the drug store today and I saw a new line of Live Clean hair products with argan oil in them. There was a shampoo, a conditioner, and a small bottle of pure argan oil. I had never heard of this kind of oil before I saw these products in the store. Has anyone heard of this oil before, or maybe even tried it? Anyone have any idea if it is actually beneficial to your hair?

ETA: Thanks Mods :)

[ktani]

I was at the drug store today and I saw a new line of Live Clean hair products with argan oil in them. There was a shampoo, a conditioner, and a small bottle of pure argan oil. I had never heard of this kind of oil before I saw these products in the store. Has anyone heard of this oil before, or maybe even tried it? Anyone have any idea if it is actually beneficial to your hair?

ETA: Thanks Mods :)

There is information on argan oil in Part 1 of my blog below and here (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=462115&postcount=407) in this post on a vendor and the oil colours and this one (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=411884&postcount=151) on how to use it and its benefits.

[Copasetic]

Thanks for the links, ktani :D

[ktani]

Thanks for the links, ktani :D

My pleasure!

[jivete]

I was at the drug store today and I saw a new line of Live Clean hair products with argan oil in them. There was a shampoo, a conditioner, and a small bottle of pure argan oil. I had never heard of this kind of oil before I saw these products in the store. Has anyone heard of this oil before, or maybe even tried it? Anyone have any idea if it is actually beneficial to your hair?

ETA: Thanks Mods :)

I use pure Argan oil in my hair and love it. It is, by far, my favorite oil. The smell is a little odd, but thankfully fades after a while. I don't know about the Live Clean products though.

[ktani]

Either the food or the cosmetic oil can be used. The difference is in the colour and the odour. The food oil is from roasted nus, has a red tint and a particular odour some do not like.

The cosmetic oil can be deodourized, which testing has shown does not effect is usefulness, and is much lighter in colour, made from unroasted nuts. It has no red tint.

[pelicano]

Ooh this is an interesting thread. :) I am wondering whether argan oil would give my dull dull browney once-blonde hair some colour, as well as obviously condition. I normally use coconut, but I'm tempted to give the argan a try.

[ktani]

Ooh this is an interesting thread. :) I am wondering whether argan oil would give my dull dull browney once-blonde hair some colour, as well as obviously condition. I normally use coconut, but I'm tempted to give the argan a try.

The cosmetic oil should not add any colour. The food oil may, depending on how porous the hair and how light in colour. No reports of added colour in the peroxide thead but the oil was used as part of a pre-treatment before conventional dye.

[Copasetic]

Ooh this is an interesting thread. :) I am wondering whether argan oil would give my dull dull browney once-blonde hair some colour, as well as obviously condition. I normally use coconut, but I'm tempted to give the argan a try.

I want to try it as well, but it is SO expensive! At my local drug store, they were charging $39.99 for a tiny bottle of it. Since the reviews for it seem to be good, I think I might try the argan oil conditioner, since it is normally priced.

[ktani]

I want to try it as well, but it is SO expensive! At my local drug store, they were charging $39.99 for a tiny bottle of it. Since the reviews for it seem to be good, I think I might try the argan oil conditioner, since it is normally priced.

Have a look at prices here. Very reasonable for the pure oil.
http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=462115&postcount=407

[pelicano]

The cosmetic oil should not add any colour. The food oil may, depending on how porous the hair and how light in colour. No reports of added colour in the peroxide thead but the oil was used as part of a pre-treatment before conventional dye.

I'll see if I can locate in the UK and use it as a leave in. I use oil on my hair every day, so a colour change would only be a bonus rather than a necessity of trying it. :)

[Qamar]

Can you use argan cooking oil on your face and hair?

[ktani]

Can you use argan cooking oil on your face and hair?

I can see no reason not to except for a possible staining re the colour and the odour. The benefits should be the same as the cosmetic version. The nuts roasted for the food oil are not subjected to high heat and the oil has been shown to reduce cardiovasular risks in part by chelating copper.

[Qamar]

Thanks Ktani. I've beenn having rather bad problems with eczema on my face and would be interested to see if this lives up to the reports in terms of being helpful for that. The red colour of the food grade oil doesn't bother me since my hair is auburn anyhow.

[Qamar]

I just ordered some food grade oil from Aziz in Montreal. Merry Christmas hair!

[ktani]

Thanks Ktani. I've beenn having rather bad problems with eczema on my face and would be interested to see if this lives up to the reports in terms of being helpful for that. The red colour of the food grade oil doesn't bother me since my hair is auburn anyhow.

You are most welcome! Use the oil at night on the skin. It can make the skin sun sensitive.

[hennaphile]

I'm very keen to try this oil and have been for some time. I like multi use oils which you can use on skin and in the kitchen :) ; I've been looking for a facial oil I can use at night and use as a make up remover ever since I ran out of rose hip seed oil. I'll check out some of the local specialty shops.

If you're concerned about increased sun sensitivity, check out the shiny new sunscreen thread in health and body beautiful :cool:

[Qamar]

You are most welcome! Use the oil at night on the skin. It can make the skin sun sensitive.

Thanks for the warning! I am sun sensitive anyhow and have to marinate in sunblock before going out. I actually carry parasols in the car and use them anytime I'll be outside for a while because I burn through sunblock, even with reapplication.

[hennaphile]

Thanks for the warning! I am sun sensitive anyhow and have to marinate in sunblock before going out. I actually carry parasols in the car and use them anytime I'll be outside for a while because I burn through sunblock, even with reapplication.

Have you tried a quality spf 30 non nano zinc sunblock? :flower:

[Qamar]

I actually have used micronized zinc before and that works better than most of the sunblocks on the market. I still tend to burn though...its the celtic genes in me running amuck.

[Sissy]

I want to make sure I get the best oil and there are two I'm looking at on Amazon for about the same price.

1. AAA Shea Butter Company 100% Raw Organic Argan Oil (http://www.amazon.com/100-Raw-Organic-Argan-Oil/dp/B000GS8T0Y/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top)

2. Argand'Or Culinary Argan Oil (http://www.amazon.com/ArgandOr-culinary-Argan-USDA-organic/dp/B001QXLG80/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&s=grocery&qid=1261760733&sr=8-10)

It is still correct that the benefits of the Culinary grade and the other grades are the same? I would be interested in darkening my light ends (they seem to bleach out naturally) so wondering if I should go with the culinary grade (or would it not make a difference)?

Furthermore, I'm not even sure sure what the difference is between these two brands as the AAA Shea Butter says their oil is 100% Raw & Organic... so wouldn't that mean it's culinary grade? I read through ALL the amazon reviews of the AAA Shea Butter Argan Oil but came out confused because some reviewers said it has a strong nutty or olive like smell, but then some other reviewers said it doesn't have a smell.

I want to make sure I get a dark colored smelly one so I can be sure to get all the benefits right? It's hard to tell if the AAA Shea Butter Company Argan Oil is light colored or dark because the bottle itself is dark.

Those were the best prices I could find... I had a look at this site (http://www.argan3.com/english/order.php) which was recommended by Ktani as having the best prices but I am having trouble understanding the prices (they are listed with commas in them). I also don't see a place to figure shipping to NY out. I'm not sure if this site would end up being a better deal than the two Amazon options?

Please advise... as I'm stuck between which one I should purchase.

I would love to hear if you guys think the culinary dark, smelly oil is superior over the cosmetic grade?

I would also love to know if anyone knows if the AAA Shea Butter Company Argan Oil is cosmetic grade or culinary? It's so hard to tell as they don't say in their description and the reviewers are mixed.

[ktani]

I want to make sure I get the best oil and there are two I'm looking at on Amazon for about the same price.

1. AAA Shea Butter Company 100% Raw Organic Argan Oil (http://www.amazon.com/100-Raw-Organic-Argan-Oil/dp/B000GS8T0Y/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top)

2. Argand'Or Culinary Argan Oil (http://www.amazon.com/ArgandOr-culinary-Argan-USDA-organic/dp/B001QXLG80/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&s=grocery&qid=1261760733&sr=8-10)

It is still correct that the benefits of the Culinary grade and the other grades are the same? I would be interested in darkening my light ends (they seem to bleach out naturally) so wondering if I should go with the culinary grade (or would it not make a difference)?

Furthermore, I'm not even sure sure what the difference is between these two brands as the AAA Shea Butter says their oil is 100% Raw & Organic... so wouldn't that mean it's culinary grade? I read through ALL the amazon reviews of the AAA Shea Butter Argan Oil but came out confused because some reviewers said it has a strong nutty or olive like smell, but then some other reviewers said it doesn't have a smell.

I want to make sure I get a dark colored smelly one so I can be sure to get all the benefits right? It's hard to tell if the AAA Shea Butter Company Argan Oil is light colored or dark because the bottle itself is dark.

Those were the best prices I could find... I had a look at this site (http://www.argan3.com/english/order.php) which was recommended by Ktani as having the best prices but I am having trouble understanding the prices (they are listed with commas in them). I also don't see a place to figure shipping to NY out. I'm not sure if this site would end up being a better deal than the two Amazon options?

Please advise... as I'm stuck between which one I should purchase.

I would love to hear if you guys think the culinary dark, smelly oil is superior over the cosmetic grade?

I would also love to know if anyone knows if the AAA Shea Butter Company Argan Oil is cosmetic grade or culinary? It's so hard to tell as they don't say in their description and the reviewers are mixed.

The oils should work the same. You want a pure oil though.

Email Aziz re price. He resonds quickly and can tell you how much the shipping will be. His email is in this link, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=462115&postcount=407.

[Pierre]

Those were the best prices I could find... I had a look at this site (http://www.argan3.com/english/order.php) which was recommended by Ktani as having the best prices but I am having trouble understanding the prices (they are listed with commas in them).
The comma is just the French (and some other languages) equivalent of a decimal point. Some numbers on the page use a period, though. Go figure ;)

[ktani]

The comma is just the French (and some other languages) equivalent of a decimal point. Some numbers on the page use a period, though. Go figure ;)

The commas should be periods. It is just a typo.

[Sissy]

The oils should work the same. You want a oure oil though.

Email Aziz re price. He resonds quickly and can tell you how much the shipping will be. His email is in this link, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=462115&postcount=407.

Thanks I have emailed them and will not make a decision on any Argan oil until I hear back with price quotes, etc. So is their oil pure, raw, organic Argan oil? Do they sell both cosmetic and culinary grade (it looks like he does)?

I have to say one thing I really like the sounds of about the Argand'or Argan Oil on Amazon is that the description says it is, "certified USDA organic and produced entirely by hand using traditional stone mills. The oil is a product of fair trading practices, manufactured by Berber Women Cooperatives in Morocco, true artisans who exercise local control of the production from harvest to oil extraction."

That sounds really nice... I wonder if the same is true of the oils sold on the Montreal Argan3 site? Oh wait... I just found this page: http://www.argan3.com/english/welcome.php
it appears as though this is also true of the Argan3 oil.

[Qamar]

Actually, the comma are not typos. European countries and parts of Canada (Quebec, parts of Nova Scotia, PEI etc) use a comma where we use a decimal point. It means the same thing.

I just ordered from Aziz in Montreal and he was a pleasure to deal with. I bought the two bottle special of the culinary Argan oil, a total of 400mL for $46 with $19 shipping to California. Given that oils in glass bottles are heavy, thats definitely fair. He responded to my email enquiries within minutes of my sending them. Now I can't wait for my oil to come!

[Mannaz]

This is a bit off-topic but I just have to add that argan oil is also very good for healing sunburns, I think it's because of the high amount of E- vitamin in it. I've also had good succes using it for very dry, flaky, winter-abused skin...

[ktani]

The comma is just the French (and some other languages) equivalent of a decimal point. Some numbers on the page use a period, though. Go figure ;)

Aziz is very fluent in French and less so in English. His combinations are a result of that. He is very good in understanding whatever one discusses with him though.

Whenever I have asked him questions about argan oil he has always replied with the information I asked about and it is always on point and complete.

[Sissy]

Can anyone tell me if there is any difference in the oil being sold from Montreal and this oil (http://www.amazon.com/100-Raw-Organic-Argan-Oil/dp/B000GS8T0Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=hpc&qid=1262020035&sr=8-1) sold on Amazon? It is listed as 100% raw organic argan oil, so I would assume it is cold pressed and pure. I have purchased AAA Shea Company products before and been happy... the price is also very inexpensive because the shipping is free. Do any of you know of any difference in this oil (http://www.amazon.com/100-Raw-Organic-Argan-Oil/dp/B000GS8T0Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=hpc&qid=1262020035&sr=8-1)from the one being sold through the Montreal website?

Has anyone purchased the AAA Shea Company Argan oil off amazon?

Thanks so much.
Sissy

[ktani]

Can anyone tell me if there is any difference in the oil being sold from Montreal and this oil (http://www.amazon.com/100-Raw-Organic-Argan-Oil/dp/B000GS8T0Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=hpc&qid=1262020035&sr=8-1) sold on Amazon? It is listed as 100% raw organic argan oil, so I would assume it is cold pressed and pure. I have purchased AAA Shea Company products before and been happy... the price is also very inexpensive because the shipping is free. Do any of you know of any difference in this oil (http://www.amazon.com/100-Raw-Organic-Argan-Oil/dp/B000GS8T0Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=hpc&qid=1262020035&sr=8-1)from the one being sold through the Montreal website?

Has anyone purchased the AAA Shea Company Argan oil off amazon?

Thanks so much.
Sissy

That is an impossible question to answer without investigation. Oils come with various descriptions and labelling. Some are certified organic, first cold-pressed oil, like Argan3 products that are directly from a women's co-opertaive in Morocco. Some are not. It depends on how well the oil works for one and what one wants to use it for, the quality of it, and price you want to spend.

Can the company who is selling the oil, back up its labelling? Argan3 can. Others may not. In Morocco there are versions of argan oil being sold as pure oil to tourists that are not what they are claimed to be. You need to ask questions of the vendor.

As to the price. A1 cosmetic oil is $25.50 for 100 ml or 3.38 oz U.S., http://www.argan3.com/english/order.php
The Amazon oil is $32.00 for 100 ml. It looks to me as if some of the "free" shipping cost is included in the price, which is higher.

I have no deals with Argan3. I chose them initially because of their connection to the co-operative and their prices compared to others I checked out online and I have found Aziz to be wonderful to work with in terms of him always being willing to answer questions about his products. (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=432763&postcount=239) On his website you can also find information on the quality of the oils he sells, http://www.argan3.com/english/welcome.php.

[Cake]

I use a few drops to oil my ends lightly every night and works great. It leaves the hair soft, bouncy and non greasy. I also use it on my face.

This is the one I'm using: http://www.theorganicbodycareshop.com/product-details.asp?SID=none&PID=1271&Brand=Akamuti&Product=Oil-Argan_(Organic_Cold_Pressed)

[ktani]

I retrieved this from the peroxide thread on buying argan oil, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=432632&postcount=238

And this on its use, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=411884&postcount=151

[Sissy]

I retrieved this from the peroxide thread on buying argan oil, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=432632&postcount=238

And this on its use, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=411884&postcount=151

Thank you this is very helpful. I want to make sure... cosmetic argan oil, although lighter in color, will not lighten my hair. correct?

I only ask because I have been told that honey and olive oil may lighten the hair and want to make sure this isn't the case with argan oil.

Also, Ktani - have you found argan oil to be anywhere as helpful with split ends as catnip... or is catnip still your number 1 recommended method for split end prevention? I could be a good experiment for catnip as I have lots of split ends... I just never seem to find the time to soak the catnip tea on my hair!

[ktani]

Thank you this is very helpful. I want to make sure... cosmetic argan oil, although lighter in color, will not lighten my hair. correct?

I only ask because I have been told that honey and olive oil may lighten the hair and want to make sure this isn't the case with argan oil.

Also, Ktani - have you found argan oil to be anywhere as helpful with split ends as catnip... or is catnip still your number 1 recommended method for split end prevention? I could be a good experiment for catnip as I have lots of split ends... I just never seem to find the time to soak the catnip tea on my hair!

You are getting confused with the different applications for the different products.

I use catnip to colour and condition my hair. I have found that it prevents split ends the way I use it. It has been reported to help prevent split ends for others too. It is all I use other than shampoo.

Agan oil has been reported to be a very good hair oil. It can also used as a part of a pre-treatment to help minimize damage from conventional hair dye and lightening, while not interfering with either process.

While all edible oils have a peroxide value, no oil including coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil has been reported to lighten hair much on their own. Coconut oil and evoo have been reported to help boost the peroxide value of a honey lightening treatment. Most of the peroxide in a honey lightening treatment comes from the honey, but it depends on the honey in question. Some honeys produce very little peroxide.

[Liss]

I live close to Morocco and have been seeing a lot of Argan oil around recently, maybe it has always been around but I never paid much attention. I have been tempted to try it since I have a new obsession with OCM.

Thanks to people in this post I will be looking more closely into the brand and purity I select, as it is apparently an endangered plant. I will now search for an organic woman's co-op, renewable source... or a locally produced one.

Let's hope I can find it!

[Aer]

I really want to try it, I will when I get the cheapest chance too.

[Sissy]

You are getting confused with the different applications for the different products.

I use catnip to colour and condition my hair. I have found that it prevents split ends the way I use it. It has been reported to help prevent split ends for others too. It is all I use other than shampoo.

Agan oil has been reported to be a very good hair oil. It can also used as a part of a pre-treatment to help minimize damage from conventional hair dye and lightening, while not interfering with either process.

While all edible oils have a peroxide value, no oil including coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil has been reported to lighten hair much on their own. Coconut oil and evoo have been reported to help boost the peroxide value of a honey lightening treatment. Most of the peroxide in a honey lightening treatment comes from the honey, but it depends on the honey in question. Some honeys produce very little peroxide.

ahh, thanks so much for clarifying. Perhaps I'll even give my beloved EVOO a try on my hair again... I had stopped because I was afraid it might lighten it!

[ktani]

I live close to Morocco and have been seeing a lot of Argan oil around recently, maybe it has always been around but I never paid much attention. I have been tempted to try it since I have a new obsession with OCM.

Thanks to people in this post I will be looking more closely into the brand and purity I select, as it is apparently an endangered plant. I will now search for an organic woman's co-op, renewable source... or a locally produced one.

Let's hope I can find it!

The trees are protected (http://en.greenplanet.net/news-in-brief/news-in-brief/328-morocco-argan-oil-to-be-first-pdo-protected-product.html) in Morocco and part of the mandate of the co-operatives is to preserve the trees and plant new ones.

[ktani]

ahh, thanks so much for clarifying. Perhaps I'll even give my beloved EVOO a try on my hair again... I had stopped because I was afraid it might lighten it!

You are most welcome!

[Sissy]

Can the company who is selling the oil, back up its labelling? Argan3 can. Others may not. In Morocco there are versions of argan oil being sold as pure oil to tourists that are not what they are claimed to be. You need to ask questions of the vendor.

As to the price. A1 cosmetic oil is $25.50 for 100 ml or 3.38 oz U.S., http://www.argan3.com/english/order.php
The Amazon oil is $32.00 for 100 ml. It looks to me as if some of the "free" shipping cost is included in the price, which is higher.

I have no deals with Argan3. I chose them initially because of their connection to the co-operative and their prices compared to others I checked out online and I have found Aziz to be wonderful to work with in terms of him always being willing to answer questions about his products. (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=432763&postcount=239) On his website you can also find information on the quality of the oils he sells, http://www.argan3.com/english/welcome.php.

Thanks for all the info. I'm going to go with Argan3. I have emailed the seller Aziz and he has been very good about responding to my many questions. It turns out to purchase one bottle of the cosmetic oil and shipping is only 34.80, so not much more than the Amazon oil and def. worth the knowing where it came from!

Ktani, when I messaged him about his oil he provided me with a link to LHC and to this very thread :)

[ktani]

Thanks for all the info. I'm going to go with Argan3. I have emailed the seller Aziz and he has been very good about responding to my many questions. It turns out to purchase one bottle of the cosmetic oil and shipping is only 34.80, so not much more than the Amazon oil and def. worth the knowing where it came from!

Ktani, when I messaged him about his oil he provided me with a link to LHC and to this very thread :)

You are most welcome!

He is aware of the threads because of my asking him for information and pictures over the course of many months. I did let him know what I was using the information and pictures for and that both would be online. He has provided me with information every so often since I started researching argan oil in depth, and on his shipping prices and his willingness to ship internationally for those who have inquired, when they could not find a supplier near them.

What impressed me from the start, was his providing me with information without any conditions and his asking questions on my behalf and providing me with information from his sources.

[Sissy]

He is aware of the threads because of my asking him for information and pictures over the course of many months. I did let him know what I was using the information and pictures for and that both would be online. He has provided me with information every so often since I started researching argan oil in depth, and on his shipping prices and his willingness to ship internationally for those who have inquired, when they could not find a supplier near them.

yes, I think it's great and he was very helpful. I'm excited to receive the oil!

[ktani]

yes, I think it's great and he was very helpful. I'm excited to receive the oil!

I think that for every day hair use, the cosmetic oil is probably a better choice because it is deodorized.

For a pre-treatment, I do not think that it makes much difference which oil is used, the food or cosmetic oil. The odour can be a problem for some. For those with lighter coloured hair, the cosmetic oil may also be preferable for a pre-treatment, but there is a choice.

[Sweetness]

I also use certified organic argan oil, my skin and hair loves it !

Sissy, I never saw really dark argan oil (?) and I have no idea about exact cooking/cosmetic differences, this is why (among other reasons) I use certified organic only.

[ktani]

... I never saw really dark argan oil ...

The different colours of argan oil, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=516860&postcount=680.

[rags]

So if I have silvers I do not want to darken, I shouldn't buy the Argan oil they sell at Earthfare, correct? I'm assuming that would be culinary......

[ktani]

So if I have silvers I do not want to darken, I shouldn't buy the Argan oil they sell at Earthfare, correct? I'm assuming that would be culinary......

If it is the culinary oil it may stain depending on how porous your hair is. Olive oil was reported to stain ash blonde hair a yellowish tone, used as a treatment. I think pretty much any oil that has a colour that is deep enough may affect colour, depending on one's hair and tone and of course, how much of it one uses.

[rags]

Thanks, ktani! Perhaps I'd best stick with my coconut oil.....(I really like my silvers!)

[Henna Sooq]

I personally really love it. It tames frizzies, and keeps the hair really well moisturized. It's like liquid gold for he hair. It also helps the eczema on my hands. I don't have itchies as I did before.

It has so many vitamins in it and worth it. I found it also does not leave the hair looking greasy. I hate the greasy look. :)

[hennaphile]

I wonder what color it would stain... also, I need to get some :)

[Henna Sooq]

I think that for every day hair use, the cosmetic oil is probably a better choice because it is deodorized.

For a pre-treatment, I do not think that it makes much difference which oil is used, the food or cosmetic oil. The odour can be a problem for some. For those with lighter coloured hair, the cosmetic oil may also be preferable for a pre-treatment, but there is a choice.

Ktani, what do you mean by deodorized? That would give me the impression that the argan oil would be tampered with. The way to know if you have true, pure argan oil is that when it gets cool, or in the fridge it will harden some (congeal, hope that's the right word).

In no way should pure argan oil have no scent. Knowing the source of the argan oil is very important as even my Moroccan friends (and there is a big community in Montreal, where I'm from), say they adulter it sometimes.

I haven't seen any hard proof (on a personal level) of it coloring anyone's hair, and my daughter has dirty blond-brown hair. The argan oil has not affected her hair color at all, and we use it on a daily bases. (I had been trying to stop using leave-in chemical conditioners by using a more natural option). Here's a pic of my daughter's hair.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2114/1747037070_2d1a5f26e3_m.jpg

[Sara Smile]

I have purchased two bottles from two different vendors on Amazon, and the oil is a light yellow color with a very strong scent. The scent is kind of unpleasant, but fades very quickly. It's definitely not deoderised.

I've been using it on my hair almost every day, and on my face once or twice a day. I love this stuff! I also like camellia oil on my hair, but it made my face break out.

[ktani]

Ktani, what do you mean by deodorized? That would give me the impression that the argan oil would be tampered with. The way to know if you have true, pure argan oil is that when it gets cool, or in the fridge it will harden some (congeal, hope that's the right word).

In no way should pure argan oil have no scent. Knowing the source of the argan oil is very important as even my Moroccan friends (and there is a big community in Montreal, where I'm from), say they adulter it sometimes.

I haven't seen any hard proof (on a personal level) of it coloring anyone's hair, and my daughter has dirty blond-brown hair. The argan oil has not affected her hair color at all, and we use it on a daily bases. (I had been trying to stop using leave-in chemical conditioners by using a more natural option). Here's a pic of my daughter's hair.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2114/1747037070_2d1a5f26e3_m.jpg


What I said was that the darker culinary oil may stain hair, depending on the porosity and colour of the hair and how much of it used. That would apply to any oil in my opinion that has a deep colour.

Re the deoderized cosmetic oil, I posted about that here, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=432763&postcount=239

[Henna Sooq]

I have purchased two bottles from two different vendors on Amazon, and the oil is a light yellow color with a very strong scent. The scent is kind of unpleasant, but fades very quickly. It's definitely not deoderised.

I've been using it on my hair almost every day, and on my face once or twice a day. I love this stuff! I also like camellia oil on my hair, but it made my face break out.


Argan oil does have a strong scent, but I def agree that at least it doesn't stay and longer on. I knew someone who started adding sweet orange oil to their argan oil and it made a huge difference

[Henna Sooq]

What I said was that the darker culinary oil may stain hair, depending on the porosity and colour of the hair and how much of it used. That would apply to any oil in my opinion that has a deep colour.

Re the deoderized cosmetic oil, I posted about that here, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=432763&postcount=239

Thanks Ktani :)

[ktani]

Thanks Ktani :)

You are most welcome!

The deodourized version has been tested and the process they use being mild and non chemical does not reduce the effectiveness of the oil at all.

[banglaminerva]

For those of you who use Argan oil on your hair... how quickly did you notice a difference? I used a gift card that I got almost a year ago on a bottle, (this one) (http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P218700&categoryId=B70), have been using it for a week and started using a boar bristle brush at the same time. My hair is SO much shinier, smoother, less tangling and thicker. So much so, I'm wondering if I just think it is. I had been using avacado oil previously but much prefer the argan.

[jivete]

For those of you who use Argan oil on your hair... how quickly did you notice a difference? I used a gift card that I got almost a year ago on a bottle, (this one) (http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P218700&categoryId=B70), have been using it for a week and started using a boar bristle brush at the same time. My hair is SO much shinier, smoother, less tangling and thicker. So much so, I'm wondering if I just think it is. I had been using avacado oil previously but much prefer the argan.

I notice the difference immediately, but I think that's because oils, like silicones makes your hair immediately smoother and shinier. Because Argan is the oil I can use frequently, I am starting to notice an improvement on non-oiled hair. I've been using it a couple of months now.

[saskia_madding]

You know, no matter how I tried to use it, Argan oil has never worked for me. It just kind of makes my hair greasy and lifeless, even when I use a very small amount. Camellia oil works much better on my hair, but reading this thread makes me want to give Argan oil another shot. :)

[Sissy]

just chiming in to say that I'm loving my Argane 3 Argan oil. I have some on my hair tonight mixed with conditioner for an overnight treatment. I think the smell is somewhat pleasant. I have the cosmetic version. :)

I have not tried it as a leave-in. I have used, and like, Camellia oil for a leave-in.

[Gilly]

I applied some 100% pure argan oil to the ends of my hair after I washed and conditioned it this morning, it has made my hair so soft and moisturised!:cheese:

I think I am going to add a pump of it to my conditioner when I wash tomorrow.

[Qamar]

I got the cooking version of Argan oil and I quite like the rich nutty aroma. My hair and face ADORE the stuff and I've been using it as my primary oil lately. Its pretty tasty as a garnish in cooking too, though far too pricey to use as a cooking oil.

[dropinthebucket]

I have the Live Clean argan oil conditioner, 'cone free - it's nice, but i'm going to check out the health food store here and see if i can get some pure argan oil for hair and skin. Thanks for all the great links and research, ktani!

[ktani]

I have the Live Clean argan oil conditioner, 'cone free - it's nice, but i'm going to check out the health food store here and see if i can get some pure argan oil for hair and skin. Thanks for all the great links and research, ktani!

My pleasure!

The link I had no longer works but what it said was than argan oil should be used for skin at night as it can make the skin sun sensitive. I posted about that in the "peroxide" thread. http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=10495

Post - http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=660267&postcount=965

[Henna Sooq]

I absolutely love argan oil. I have left all of our leave-in conditioner commercial hair creams because of this oil. It doesn't leave my daughter's hair greasy and it does not color her hair and it is not reddish either, it is a clear nutty-smelling oil. The smell doesn't linger either. It just goes in really, really nicely.

Her hair is very curly and very dirty blond-ish. I also use it on my daughter who is really fair, and blond-ish right now. No color results. Just easy managing, great moisturization and protection. Anti freezy!! Just makes their hair look great.

[YoginiCelestial]

I absolutely love argan oil. I have left all of our leave-in conditioner commercial hair creams because of this oil. It doesn't leave my daughter's hair greasy and it does not color her hair and it is not reddish either, it is a clear nutty-smelling oil. The smell doesn't linger either. It just goes in really, really nicely.

Her hair is very curly and very dirty blond-ish. I also use it on my daughter who is really fair, and blond-ish right now. No color results. Just easy managing, great moisturization and protection. Anti freezy!! Just makes their hair look great.

Hi Henna Sooq, which brand are you using?

[Henna Sooq]

It's straight from Morocco.

[saskia_madding]

Argan oil never worked for me. I found it much heavier and less absorptive than the camellia oil I use. Which makes me sad, because I really wanted to love Argan oil. :(

[Henna Sooq]

aaww Simone..but you know what you still have a great hair oil because I've noticed that people who aren't using argan oil are using camellia instead. Like one or the other.

What about golden jojoba oil, have you ever tried that one? or has anyone tried that oil for hair?

[Luna12345]

Hi, I saw argan oil at an indian store the other day for 17 dollars and then i saw it again at an arabic store for 22 dollars it seems to be pretty expensive but I've hear many good things about it. I was using morracain oil in my hair which is suppose to be made of argan oil....I was loving it untill i actually read the ingredients and discovered that it is full of silicones and probably just has a tiny amount of argan oil.....anyway...it's really expensive.....I am going to try argan oil...I'd rather spend alot of money on the real thing .
If you are considering purchasing online be really careful that you are actually purchasing argan oil not mixed with anything else....It's probably better you walk into an indian store or arabic store and check if they have some there.

[dropinthebucket]

Yeah, I bought the Sally's Moroccan Argan Oil, also to discover mostly silicones, only a bit of argan oil - so much for truth in advertising. :(

[little_cherry]

100% pure Argan is....AMAZING. I use it in my face cream and in my hair....amazing for those who have coarser hair! A little goes a long long way!

[835]

Yep, it's enough with just 2 drops for me, so even if it's expensive a small bottle last a very long time. Love it!

[jeanniet]

I mix jojoba, argan, and camellia oil to use in my hair, and I really like it. Those oils don't make my hair greasy or weigh it down too much. I think pure argan oil is worth the price because you use so little of it that even 1 oz. is going to last quite a while.

[Gingevere]

I've heard nothing but good things about argan oil. Still, it's just not worth the expense to a broke college student like me. Coconut oil really does the trick and it's nice 'n cheap. I can also buy it locally, unlike argan oil - no Moroccan or Arab stores within a 75-mile radius of me, lol!

[frost pattern]

I'm tempted to give it a try. On the other hand ... when I made the decision for long hair some months ago I bought a number of oils. The bottles aren't empty and I'm very happy with coconut oil as well ... still thinking.

My research took me to this: http://stonebridgehair.blogspot.com/2010/07/latest-celebrity-hair-care-craze.html
It's about the oil with the turquoise tag. It's advertised as argan oil, but it's all cones with some argan flavour added.

[ktani]

This argan oil is first pressed certified organic, and reasonably priced, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=462115&postcount=407.

I have the cosmetic oil and it is amazing on my skin. A little goes a very long way.

[little_cherry]

This argan oil is first pressed certified organic, and reasonably priced, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=462115&postcount=407.

I have the cosmetic oil and it is amazing on my skin. A little goes a very long way.
Right up my Alley!!! Woohoo! :) Thanks for sharing this link- I had no idea Montreal had something like this!

[MandyBeth]

I like it, but my oil greedy hair makes it too expensive. But, hrm the links are less.

[ktani]

Right up my Alley!!! Woohoo! :) Thanks for sharing this link- I had no idea Montreal had something like this!

It does indeed and Aziz is very cool!

[MandyBeth]

Aziz is great to work with. Now to stalk the mail. 2 of the cosmetic oils and a soap since my skin loves argan also. Same price range as the Sally's coney stuff. My hair will be so happy, no more coconut oil ever.

[Back_To_Basics]

I just found this thread..I'm happy I did.
I posted something on argan oil, but not to many replies..
now I see why with this thread being here.
I just could not find it when I did a search.
This thread answered my questions.
Very informative.Thank you.

[Henna Sooq]

well if there are any argan oil questions we could grab people's attention by starting some discussion :)

[In2wishin]

I started an Argan Oil thread when I bought some because I didn't see this one. The text of my original post is:


I finally found a source for pure argan oil. Everywhere I looked had "Argan oil treatment" which has other things in it. I am looking forward to trying this since I have been hearing so much about it!

I also found out that there is a difference between argan oil for cooking and argan oil for cosmetics and the stuff for cooking has lost many of the nutrients that are good for hair.

I got mine a few days ago and really love it. My soapmakers "Bible" describes it as "anti-oxident, anti-wrinkle, anti-UV, hydrating, regenerates aged skin, and repaires damaged skin" and goes on to say that it has the benefits of olive oil, grape seed oil, avocado oil, and almond oil, combined.

Also, the harvesting and processing is strictly controlled in Morocco and is limited to women's cooperatives. I guess it is worth the price on a bunch of levels.

[Henna Sooq]

I agree, it's worth every hard earned penny. It lasts a pretty good amount of time as well. It's so good, that for us, it replaced our leave-in cream conditioners that were full of chemicals

[In2wishin]

Hi, I saw argan oil at an indian store the other day for 17 dollars and then i saw it again at an arabic store for 22 dollars it seems to be pretty expensive but I've hear many good things about it. I was using morracain oil in my hair which is suppose to be made of argan oil....I was loving it untill i actually read the ingredients and discovered that it is full of silicones and probably just has a tiny amount of argan oil.....anyway...it's really expensive.....I am going to try argan oil...I'd rather spend alot of money on the real thing .
If you are considering purchasing online be really careful that you are actually purchasing argan oil not mixed with anything else....It's probably better you walk into an indian store or arabic store and check if they have some there.


I bought mine from Majestic Mountain Sage ( http://www.thesage.com/catalog/fullcat.html#section24 ). I have been buying from them for years and they are a seller of high quality ingredients at good prices.

[In2wishin]

Argan oil never worked for me. I found it much heavier and less absorptive than the camellia oil I use. Which makes me sad, because I really wanted to love Argan oil. :(

This makes sense since Camellia oil is useful for all skin types and is non-greasy and rapidly absorbing.

Is there nothing the tea plant can't do? The leaves give us a wonderful beverage and the oil is a great cosmetic!

[ktani]

Also, the harvesting and processing is strictly controlled in Morocco and is limited to women's cooperatives. I guess it is worth the price on a bunch of levels.

Not all argan oil on the market is pure or even necessarily argan oil, nor is it necessarily from a women's cooperative.
Marrakech Forum: Buying spices, argan oil, essential oils (http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g293734-i9196-k778126-Buying_spices_argan_oil_essential_oils-Marrakech.html) "I've also read that argan oil is expensive and often diluted w/ olive oil, the buyer none the wiser."

I know that Argan3's (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=462115&postcount=407) argan oil comes from a real women's cooperative and is pure and certified, as I obtained the name of the company originally from Targanine (http://translate.google.ca/translate?hl=en&sl=fr&u=http://www.targanine.com/&ei=JBCeTMzuG8HcnAeop9X8DA&sa=X&oi=translate&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CCIQ7gEwAA&prev=/search%3Fq%3DTarganine%26hl%3Den%26biw%3D1276%26bi h%3D567%26rlz%3D1W1GZAZ_en%26prmd%3Db), which keeps redoing their website and making it less user friendly, lol.


I saved this list at one point and I believe that it is still current.
Targanine ARGAN SUPPLIERS

"Products include oil, amlou and cosmetics ...

CANADA & USA

Argan3.com (Aziz Alaoui)
Tel. (514) 482 2079
Fax. (514) 489 7718
infos@argan3.com

MOROCCO

GIE-Agadir
Angle rue de Marrakech et rue du Dispensaire
Immeuble Ouchen N° 12
1er étage Quartier Industriel 80 000 Agadir, Maroc
Tel:+212 (0)48 22 57 66
targanine@menara.ma

FRANCE

La Maison de l'Argan
443, boulevard Alfred Daney
33041 Bordeaux Cedex
France
Tél: +33 (0)5 56 43 56 43

Maroc Coop & Co
(Protomedia Air Group Intl.)
Les lointes Bastides
84160 Lourmarin
Mobile: 06 08 33 20 78
arganemaroc@yahoo.fr

Argandia
Centre Cralis Zone de Pentaparc
BP 33619
56036 Vannes
CEDEX
Tel: 02 97 47 29 76
argandia@wanadoo.fr

SCANDINAVIA

Lingo AS
P.b.8935 Youngstorget
NO-0028 Oslo
Norway
Tel: +47 47 055 802
lingo@as.online.no

JAPAN

Nutrition Act
Nutrition Act Co. LTD.154 Takonawa, menato-ko.
Tokyo 1080074 Japon
Tel: +81 354 757 313
yamauchi@n-act.co.jp

BELGIUM

Amal annamaria stoop
Groenplaats 40, Antwerp, Belgium
Tel: +32 486 52 92 75
info@amal.be"

[danikabananika]

I used to argan oil from Morrocanoil. It made my hair super super soft, and a little definitely goes a long way (it's a dry oil so it's not greasy, but if you use to much it can look... still not greasy, but product-y). Like most argan oil beauty products, Morrocanoil is a typical argan oil "based" product, meaning that it is mostly made of cones and other additives. Pure argan oil is your best bet, but it'll cost you a small fortune ;)

[ktani]

I used to argan oil from Morrocanoil. It made my hair super super ssoft, and a little definitely goes a long way (it's a dry oil so it's not greasy, but if you use to much it can look... still not greasy, but product-y). Like most argan oil beauty products, Morrocanoil is a typical argan oil "based" product, meaning that it is mostly made of cones and other additives. Pure argan oil is your best bet, but it'll cost you a small fortune ;)

Welcome to LHC!

I disagree. The prices can be reasonable for the pure oil and so little is needed (depending on what you are using it for) that it is not as cost prohibative as one might think.

I use the pure cosmetic oil on my skin. Drops only are required for large areas.

[Henna Sooq]

I'm not impressed with the brand Moroccan oil at all. Mind you their packaging looks gorgeous, even I want to buy it :) But the products themselves are not pure.

Comparing to other oils, argan is still more expensive. Just like different essential oils all vary in price, but I agree Ktani, it really goes a long way, and is worth every bit.

You can see how pure your argan oil is by leaving it in the fridge and seeing how much it solidifies. The more it solidifies the more pure it is.

[ktani]

I'm not impressed with the brand Moroccan oil at all. Mind you their packaging looks gorgeous, even I want to buy it :) But the products themselves are not pure.

Comparing to other oils, argan is still more expensive. Just like different essential oils all vary in price, but I agree Ktani, it really goes a long way, and is worth every bit.

You can see how pure your argan oil is by leaving it in the fridge and seeing how much it solidifies. The more it solidifies the more pure it is.

If it were mixed with another oil that solidifies in the same way, that would not be a true test. Jojoba oil for example, solidifies when left in the fridge too and it is technically a liquid wax.

ETA: As I thought. Why that test is not valid (http://www.aromadictionary.com/EVOO_blog/?p=550) regarding the purity of any oil for a number of reasons. It is a myth. About the author (http://www.aromadictionary.com/EVOO_blog/?page_id=2) of the text quoted in part below. The same things exactly would apply to argan oil.
"Clever fraudsters will just add enough ‘other stuff’ so as to just make it difficult for authorities to definitively say that “yes this oil is fraudulent” without having to resort to expensive sophisticated testing and lengthy court cases. An adulterated olive oil that contains 90% extra virgin olive oil and 10% canola oil will still have a high level of monounsaturated fat* and will therefore solidify at fridge temperature. Next to the authentic EVOO, it will look exactly the same."

Labelling and the right seals plus a little internet/email investigation will tell one whether the oil is approved, certified and pure and does come from a women's cooperative in Morocco. If the right questions are not replied to by email with a way to back them up, I would buy from another supplier.

[MandyBeth]

The Morracon oil and Sallys version both will firm up in the fridge. Working with a reputable seller is the best way. Cost wise - using the earlier link costs and amount used vs jojoba oil and EVOO and use - EVOO is 2x the cost and jojoba is 6x the cost

[ktani]

The Morracon oil and Sallys version both will firm up in the fridge. Working with a reputable seller is the best way. Cost wise - using the earlier link costs and amount used vs jojoba oil and EVOO and use - EVOO is 2x the cost and jojoba is 6x the cost

Interesting calculations. I know extra virgin olive oil can be very expensive. I did not know pure jojoba oil could be as well.

[In2wishin]

Not all argan oil on the market is pure or even necessarily argan oil, nor is it necessarily from a women's cooperative.
Marrakech Forum: Buying spices, argan oil, essential oils (http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g293734-i9196-k778126-Buying_spices_argan_oil_essential_oils-Marrakech.html) "I've also read that argan oil is expensive and often diluted w/ olive oil, the buyer none the wiser."

From an article by Melissa Breyer:


It is Berber women who are solely responsible for harvesting the nuts and producing the oil, and they are doing so in fair trade working cooperatives. Outside groups, like the government of Morocco, are also financially backing a system whereby women can work half days (so they can still tend to their families) in exchange for fair wages and good working conditions. This has allowed an income for women and families where before there was little.

The cooperatives have initiated an ecosystem reforestation project to help preserve the argan forest. The cooperatives are working in partnership with the Moroccan Water and Forests Authorities to allow optimal tree growth, plant argan nurseries, and create education programs. The community realizes the value of the argan tree and they are involved with its protection. In fact, Unesco has designated the 10,000-square-mile argan-growing region as a biosphere reserve.

Read more: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/is-argan-oil-miraculous.html?page=2#ixzz10ZyhcVvU

As far as purity, it is a matter of trusting the seller/brand. MMS is a highly regarded supplier among soapers and I have been using them for years.

[ktani]

From an article by Melissa Breyer:



Read more: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/is-argan-oil-miraculous.html?page=2#ixzz10ZyhcVvU

As far as purity, it is a matter of trusting the seller/brand. MMS is a highly regarded supplier among soapers and I have been using them for years.

I was not questioning your seller. I was reporting what I have read numerous times, that there is adulterated and fake argan oil for sale, even in Morocco.

From the link I provided on testing an oil for purity, adulterating oils is not limited to argan oil. I most definitely believe such fraud exists and I am not so naive that I believe it is impossible to accomplish (and I am not saying that you are naive).

It would not be that difficult to legitimately purchase argan oil from a cooperative, or a distrubutor, adulterate it and sell it to make extra profit.

Argan oil (http://www.culinaryanthropologist.org/2009/02/argan-oil.html) Read more
"But the tourist should beware of some fake ‘coopératives féminines d’huile d’argan’, which are neither cooperative nor run by women nor selling pure argan oil, when you look behind the screens."

[MandyBeth]

Jojoba isn't expensive, more moderate in cost. It's the amount Ty and I have to use, easily two palmfuls a day on a good day. Vs the dropper of argan being too much now.

[In2wishin]

I was not questioning your seller. I was reporting what I have read numerous times that there is adulterated and fake argan oil for sale, even in Morocco.

From the link I provided on testing an oil for purity, adulterating oils is not limited to argan oil. I most definitely believe such fraud exists and I am not so naive that I believe it is impossible to accomplish.

It would not be that difficult to purchase argan oil from a cooperative, adulterate it and sell it to make extra profit.

I know exactly what you mean. I worked for a number of years for a local spice company known for their quality and freshness. So often we would have customers brag about the spices they bought cheap while traveling. Of course the biggest was saffron and when shown what true saffron is some realized that what they bought was not true (usually pot marigold blossoms that look like saffron and color like saffron). The worst case of adulterated spices I heard was when Paprika was mixed with powdered red paint for local sale in Hungary and many tourists bought it and some got severely sick from the lead in the paint (this was about 2002 or so)

My original point was that whenever you get real argan oil (in whole or part) the production of the actual argan oil benefits indigenous women.

Whether what you get is pure or not is a matter of trusting your supplier and them buying direct or trusting their supplier.

[ktani]

I know exactly what you mean. I worked for a number of years for a local spice company known for their quality and freshness. So often we would have customers brag about the spices they bought cheap while traveling. Of course the biggest was saffron and when shown what true saffron is some realized that what they bought was not true (usually pot marigold blossoms that look like saffron and color like saffron). The worst case of adulterated spices I heard was when Paprika was mixed with powdered red paint for local sale in Hungary and many tourists bought it and some got severely sick from the lead in the paint (this was about 2002 or so)

My original point was that whenever you get real argan oil (in whole or part) the production of the actual argan oil benefits indigenous women.

Whether what you get is pure or not is a matter of trusting your supplier and them buying direct or trusting their supplier.

A supplier should be able to prove a connection to a legitimate cooperative, and the purity of their oil.

I added a link and text to my post while you were posting. The reason I have used Argan3 as a supplier in the "peroxide thread" is 1. their prices and 2. where I got them from. I very much believe in supporting the legitimate women's cooperatives in Morocco.

So, you and I are on the same page.

[ktani]

Jojoba isn't expensive, more moderate in cost. It's the amount Ty and I have to use, easily two palmfuls a day on a good day. Vs the dropper of argan being too much now.

That makes perfect sense. And argan oil has been scientifically proven to have benefits. (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=585662&postcount=815) ETA: Some of the links are gone but the text remains valid.

[In2wishin]

A supplier should be able to prove a connection to a legitimate cooperative, and the purity of their oil.

So, you and I are on the same page.

Definitely....buying the real stuff benefits Berber women but do your homework to make sure that what you are buying is real.

[ktani]

Definitely....buying the real stuff benefits Berber women but do your homework to make sure that what you are buying is real.

My point exactly!

Argan oil research 2910 (http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ejlt.200900269/abstract), on storage of the kernels.

More research articles (http://www.arganoils.com/argan_research.html)

[MandyBeth]

With the 99.9 percent cone products, the .1 of argan still helps the Berber women, just not your hair or pocketbook. With the argan oil, my lobes were at 6g the day I started and are oh so happy with the oil. Plus my hair. And it's yummy good.

[Luna12345]

Hi , I just wanted to let you know that you do not need to purchase this online and wait for shipping . You can probably find it at an indian or middle eastern store. I've seen it at three diffirent stores her in Montreal,Qc and it's about $20.
I haven't tried it yet but I plan to.

[ktani]

With the 99.9 percent cone products, the .1 of argan still helps the Berber women, just not your hair or pocketbook. With the argan oil, my lobes were at 6g the day I started and are oh so happy with the oil. Plus my hair. And it's yummy good.

For those with darker hair and those who are ok with the aroma, the food oil should work as well as the cosmetic oil and it is less expensive. The cosmetic oil is available deodorized (which does not affect the oil's properties) and it is much lighter in colour.

[ktani]

Hi , I just wanted to let you know that you do not need to purchase this online and wait for shipping . You can probably find it at an indian or middle eastern store. I've seen it at three diffirent stores her in Montreal,Qc and it's about $20.
I haven't tried it yet but I plan to.

Aziz of Argan3 told me he was moving into retail stores and delivery is free from him in Montreal and Toronto. Argan oil is available in stores. However, it is the quality and purity that has been the issue under discussion.

[loralie]

I keep meaning to buy some but I haven't gotten around to it.

For those of you looking for a cheap deal I was looking on etsy and found this:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/56983570/moroccan-argan-oil-raw-organic-virgin?ref=sr_gallery_22&ga_search_query=argan+oil&ga_search_type=all&ga_page=&order=&includes[0]=tags&includes[1]=title

Or just search "Argan Oil" in all items- there's tons of products.

[ktani]

I keep meaning to buy some but I haven't gotten around to it.

For those of you looking for a cheap deal I was looking on etsy and found this:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/56983570/moroccan-argan-oil-raw-organic-virgin?ref=sr_gallery_22&ga_search_query=argan+oil&ga_search_type=all&ga_page=&order=&includes[0]=tags&includes[1]=title

Or just search "Argan Oil" in all items- there's tons of products.

Again, get it authenticated if you can. A deal is only a deal if you are getting what you thought you were buying at a better price.

[MandyBeth]

Aziz is the cheapest online that I am personally happy to support. Even with shipping to the US, it is less than local stores can get wholesale due to limited good North American supply. Argan oil does more good world wide than my desire to shop local.

[LeeLee337]

I've been using Argan oil and love it! It's not as pure I guess as this one though. The one I get is from Sally Beauty Supply and it's around $8. It smells amazing and makes your hair feel like silk. Also I love to rub it on dry skin. A little bit goes a long way. Also you can put it in your conditioner.

[In2wishin]

Ktani's posts made me curious about the argan oil I buy from Majestic Mountain Sage so I emailed Stephanie and asked her about the oil they sell. It turns out that they buy the nuts direct from the women's cooperatives in Morocco and have the oil processed via cold expeller on site here in the states. That is why they are able to sell 4 oz for $12 (or a gallon for $266 :p) and can guarantee that it is pure.

[Igor]

It seems like everyone on LHC I encounter are suddenly using argan oil :lol: I’m still not sure what is so amazing about this oil though? Is it moisturising or strengthening or full of ceratine or something? So far I only found two online shops in Denmark that sells it pure and it’s extremely expensive! :ponder:

[ktani]

It seems like everyone on LHC I encounter are suddenly using argan oil :lol: I’m still not sure what is so amazing about this oil though? Is it moisturising or strengthening or full of ceratine or something? So far I only found two online shops in Denmark that sells it pure and it’s extremely expensive! :ponder:

I did a lot of reasearch on it for the "peroxide thread". It can make the skin sun sensitive so it is advised to apply it at night on skin and wash it off in the morning. For hair, I would keep it off the scalp if worn during the day, unless one is using it as part of a pre-treatment before conventional dye or lightening.

Some research, http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=585662&postcount=815. The links are gone but the text remains.

[dropinthebucket]

The Sally's argan oil has only a small amount of argan oil in it - the first three ingredients are silicones, btw. I bought it, too, only to discover it was a compound product when I got it home and read the ingredients - then again, it was only 12$/bottle, so I should've known it could not be pure argan oil! Caveat emptor - make sure you read the label before purchase.

[shockinglength]

Does anybody use this? I use the Live Clean argan oil conditioner (for co) and it's wonderful...and I like the idea that it helps prevent sun damage. I was wondering if argan oil or coconut oil whould benefit hair more?

[ktani]

Does anybody use this? I use the Live Clean argan oil conditioner (for co) and it's wonderful...and I like the idea that it helps prevent sun damage. I was wondering if argan oil or coconut oil whould benefit hair more?

"helps prevent sun damage."?

Argan oil can help rejeuvenate skin and help prevent free radical damage from chemical processing. It cannot replace a sunscreen.

Both coconut and argan oils are great and have been reported to work well together and separately.

Argan oil can make the skin sun sensitive, so it is best used on the skin at night and not used on the scalp if one is getting sun exposure.

[In2wishin]

I am now officially in love with this oil :crush:

I have used it on my hair (on the ends) and they have never been better. I still do my heavy oiling with my herb-infused sunflower oil but this is great for the leave-in!

I added it to my oil mixture for my OCM and my face is softer and clearer than it has been in a long time. (My mix: 15% Castor Oil, 15% Argan Oil, 70% plain sunflower oil)

Coconut oil has now been relegated to my soap recipes only! Since it is one of the most comedogenic (pore clogging) oils I can't get it on my scalp because I will get the scalp bumps and I think my hair likes argan oil better!

[shockinglength]

"helps prevent sun damage."?

Argan oil can help rejeuvenate skin and help prevent free radical damage from chemical processing. It cannot replace a sunscreen.

Both coconut and argan oils are great and have been reported to work well together and separately.

Argan oil can make the skin sun sensitive, so it is best used on the skin at night and not used on the scalp if one is getting sun exposure.


Look up the live clean products on the internet with the argan oil line and it expalins it....if it really works I dunno :p I just LOVE the whole argan oil line. I'm wondering what oil works better and why...argan or coconut. (For thoes of you who have used it)

[Barniie]

Oh my golly. Well I tried argan oil at a friends house and I LOVED it, so i went to Price Attack and bought a little bottle of 'Macadamia Natural Oil Healing Oil Treatment'. It contains macadamia and argan oil (and also ALOT of cones ie. the first two ingredients on the list are dimethicone and cyclomethicone) and it works wonders. It doesent leave a super coney feel and i got a 3-6 month supply (10ml) for $8. Thats australian dollars btw. It also helps that it smells amazing!

Just so you know :)

[MommaRalph]

Just got some argan oil from www.global-treasures.com in Alberta. I used it yesterday and have such soft hair! I think this is a winner!

Valerie

[little_cherry]

Pure Argan and coconut blend= pure bliss. :D

[Henna Sooq]

Little cherry, that sounds nice. did you mix those two together? I wonder how they'd be together ? and maybe with an essential oil or etc...

[little_cherry]

Little cherry, that sounds nice. did you mix those two together? I wonder how they'd be together ? and maybe with an essential oil or etc...
Yes, I mixed equal amounts of both...so lovely! I think EOs would be lovely. Vanilla works wonderfully with coconut (one of my favorites.)

[Henna Sooq]

vanilla essential oil right? is that what you use or fragrant oil? I want to check out the prices then!

[ktani]

I have gotten to know Aziz of Argan3 somewhat through email. He is a lovely man, and he sent me this about his wife, and her new book, http://www.rcinet.ca/francais/chronique/pomme-et-mandarine---immigration/15-22_2010-11-12-la-savoureuse-cuisine-de-leila-benzakour/.

I am not fluent in French though so I asked for a rough translation.

"My wife Leila has published a book about Moroccan cuisine with Argan oil This was in interview on CBC French channel. The book launch will be held on Nov. 16th this week and at BOOK FAIR OF MONTREAL on 20 & 21 of November. The recipies are salads and many others specialties and famous Moroccans dishes flavoured with argan oil (over 90) recipes. The book is illustrated with wonderful pictures made at home during preparation of the cooking."

For those who are fluent in French, enjoy. I am getting a complete translation, lol.

A blog post on the book with pictures of some of the recipes, http://irinashakhova.wordpress.com/.
"Cuisine Marocaine parfumée a l’huile d’argan” by Leila Benzakour. In the book she shares her 75 secret recipes of Morocan cuisine ... all the recipes are based on Argan oil. Argan oil is used a lot ... as a dressing on salad, meat or fish or simply as a dip for bread."

[Totte]

My hair loves Argain oil :) I sometimes rub a few drops on my palms and then run my hands through my hair. Yesterday I pretty much ... drowned my extreme dry and brittle under layer of hair with it and then went to bed, in the morning the hair had practically absorbed it all! Too bad it's so expensive, haha. But little goes a long way, and it doesn't make my hair greasy.

[PeaceLoveHair]

Ive used the Morroccan Oil which is a blend of Argan oil. Didnt like it and was disappointed that I paid so much for it ( not the cheapest product) after a recommendation by a stylist. I ended up giving it away to my sister. A cheaper and better one is One N Only argan oil ( again, not pure argan oil. I dont use it much at all since finding out that my hair loves coconut oil and jojoba oil waaaaay better.

[csm--carla]

Thanks so much for reviving this thread!

My hair has been extremely dry and fly away--it's coarse, thick, and wavy...my usual treatment of olive oil and coconut oil wasn't helping. I remembered some Argan oil I bought from Henna Sooq was waiting for me in the fridge (while I was using up some other oils I had on hand).

After applying just a few drops my hair settled right down and behaved! It was amazingly smooth and knot free today. I felt comfortable wearing a pony tail instead of bun or braid today for the first time in a week.

This oil is very light and a drop in my hand disappears quickly--much like an essential oil does. My hair isn't oily at all after using it.

[madeline_]

Pure Argan and coconut blend= pure bliss. :D

And that smell, oh my. Cookie cravings all through the night!

Re: The discussion of "the preventing of sun damage" two pages back. Argan oil does not prevent sun damage, but has been proven to somewhat fade existing sun damage, dark spots and the like. This may have caused the confusion. I use it on my chin in the hope of fading acne scars, something else it allegedly does.

[uwodahikamama]

So... I wanted to chime in my 2 cents as well! I have some argan oil from Amazon.com and a bottle from eBay. The stuff from Amazon.com is amazing on my skin!! But a little much for my hair... the stuff from eBay is perfect for my hair! Not so much for my skin... so it may depend on who is selling it but both bottles are 100% pure cold-pressed organic oil! Love it :-)

[bunzfan]

I just received my bottle off ebay for a decent price considering its pure organic argan oil and i love it, not only does it instantly make my hair feel softer it looks so shiny and stops my layers coming out when i use it just before i put my hair up with hair sticks/forks.

[Sanyia]

I got an email my argan oil and raw shea butter order has just shipped. I just can't wait, I have not used either, before. :)

[In2wishin]

I just received my bottle off ebay for a decent price considering its pure organic argan oil and i love it, not only does it instantly make my hair feel softer it looks so shiny and stops my layers coming out when i use it just before i put my hair up with hair sticks/forks.

Can I ask: who is the seller and how much did you pay?

[bunzfan]

Can I ask: who is the seller and how much did you pay?

Of course no problem i got it here
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110558759753&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT#ht_609wt_1139

The ebay shop was recommended on the uk thread i highly recommend them i have since ordered 6 items from him and got them all the next day :D

I paid £2.49 + £1.45 p&p

[In2wishin]

Of course no problem i got it here
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110558759753&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT#ht_609wt_1139

The ebay shop was recommended on the uk thread i highly recommend them i have since ordered 6 items from him and got them all the next day :D

I paid £2.49 + £1.45 p&p

I didn't even notice that you were in the UK :oops:

I guess I'll stick with my US source http://www.camdengrey.com/essential-oils/argan-oil.html

[Sanyia]

It came in! I thought I liked coconut oil, but this is just incredible for hair and skin. Just fantastic! :magic:

[In2wishin]

It came in! I thought I liked coconut oil, but this is just incredible for hair and skin. Just fantastic! :magic:

Hooray! You will find all kinds of uses for it. I currently use it as a leave-in on my ends, as a face moisturizer, around my eyes, and recently started using it to soften cuticles.

[ktani]

Hooray! You will find all kinds of uses for it. I currently use it as a leave-in on my ends, as a face moisturizer, around my eyes, and recently started using it to soften cuticles.

I also find argan oil great on cuticles.

I use it on my face at night (not all the time though), very sparingly, as so little is needed and it does not leave my skin greasy at all, and wash with catnip the next morning.

[Sanyia]

I am putting a little bit on my BF's face every night.

He is one of those people blessed (he said cursed) with Celtic heritage, so he sunburns easily and his skin tend to turn red with dry/ windy conditions. His skin is clearing up and looks feels much softer.

He loves it. Or maybe, it's just the extra attention? <3 <3 <3

[principessa1984]

Hey guys... my family is from the region and I was talking to one of my friends about it. She said that it's a great oil (she used it ALL THE TIME back home) but waaay too expensive in the States. For her, coconut, olive and castor oils suffice. The same goes for my aunt, she just uses coconut oil (and some others, I think). So, I've never bothered spending the extra money on it. Oh, and both of these women have type 3b hair that's very thick and waist length (when they want it to be). Hope this helps

[TwilightBloom]

Ok so I have read the whole thread, can someone give me the top 2 sites to order from if im in the united states. I want the pure 100% argan oil, im probably gonna get the cosmetic because even though my hair is dark and wont get stained, my daughters hair is blonde and might. Thanks for any info, I can't wait to get this oil..:)

[MonaLisa65]

Ok so I have read the whole thread, can someone give me the top 2 sites to order from if im in the united states. I want the pure 100% argan oil, im probably gonna get the cosmetic because even though my hair is dark and wont get stained, my daughters hair is blonde and might. Thanks for any info, I can't wait to get this oil..:)

According to In2Wishin in the 'Discuss Oil Shampoo (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=1478236&postcount=233)' thread, this place has the best price for pure Argan oil:


http://www.camdengrey.com/

[In2wishin]

According to In2Wishin in the 'Discuss Oil Shampoo (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showpost.php?p=1478236&postcount=233)' thread, this place has the best price for pure Argan oil:


http://www.camdengrey.com/

A second site (since you requested 2) is Majestic Mountain Sage. http://www.thesage.com/catalog/fullcat.html I have ordered from both depending on what else I plan to order and am happy with both companies.

[mariy]

argan oil products appears to be readily available in every cosmetic stores…but not all of them are 100% organic pure as they claim
to avoid diluted or chemical extracted argan oil there is an experiment called: IceSensed Experiment (google it) use it to check the purity of your argan oil

[mizukitty]

Got SheaMoisture brand argan oil from Target for $8. It's 1.6oz, pump bottle, amber colored. Perfect. I ordered from previously from amazon and it smelled like a zoo. Not even joking. I read they extract the oil from.... animal poop, from an animal (can't recall which, goat probably) that eats a lot of argan kernels. Yeah, I know. But this one is completely free of that scent (smells a tad nutty.)

[Obsidian]

argan oil products appears to be readily available in every cosmetic stores…but not all of them are 100% organic pure as they claim
to avoid diluted or chemical extracted argan oil there is an experiment called: IceSensed Experiment (google it) use it to check the purity of your argan oil

googled it. Now I want to extract my own oil but can't find any kernels for sale in the states:(


Got SheaMoisture brand argan oil from Target for $8. It's 1.6oz, pump bottle, amber colored. Perfect. I ordered from previously from amazon and it smelled like a zoo. Not even joking. I read they extract the oil from.... animal poop, from an animal (can't recall which, goat probably) that eats a lot of argan kernels. Yeah, I know. But this one is completely free of that scent (smells a tad nutty.)

They don't actually extract the oil from the poo, they collect the nuts that pass through the goats, remove the outer shell then extract the oil. The shell is super hard, the kernel isn't damaged or polluted from the goats digestive tract. I'm betting the animal smell is just the natural scent of argan. from what I've read, its pretty strongly scented unless deodorized.

[mariy]

as a part of the goat's digestive process what i've read is that the goats eat argan fruit and ruminating argan nut

the rest of the process explained here interactively oilyit.com (https://oilyit.com)

also argan oil need to be laboratory analysis, the Moroccan customs authorized the oil to be exported based on the analysis report so if they detect that the oil was pressed from argan nut collected from goats. the supplier/seller wont be able to send the oil to its destination (buyer)

[littlestarface]

argan oil products appears to be readily available in every cosmetic stores…but not all of them are 100% organic pure as they claim
to avoid diluted or chemical extracted argan oil there is an experiment called: IceSensed Experiment (google it) use it to check the purity of your argan oil

I did it and my argan turned solid and it smells like strong nuts when in the fridge.

[mizukitty]

googled it. Now I want to extract my own oil but can't find any kernels for sale in the states:(



They don't actually extract the oil from the poo, they collect the nuts that pass through the goats, remove the outer shell then extract the oil. The shell is super hard, the kernel isn't damaged or polluted from the goats digestive tract. I'm betting the animal smell is just the natural scent of argan. from what I've read, its pretty strongly scented unless deodorized.

Thanks for the info on that! That's pretty much what I figured, I wasn't grossed out by the idea or anything really. But this smell was literally zoo/feces. It was unbelievably similar to livestock. Definitely nothing close to the nuttiness that it's supposed to be...

I'm really skeptical as to whether or not it was even argan because it was like $12 on prime for 4 oz. Seemed too good to be true. It was.

[Soj]

I haven't tried the straight oil but the Costco Argan Oil shampoo and conditioner turned my hair very very dry, almost like straw. More like hay I guess since my hair is so fine, LOL!

However there is an environmental concern.

Due to the way Argan oil is harvested and processed, increased demand is starting to kill off the trees. Because the way the vast majority of the stuff is harvested is to turn the goats loose into the trees. They climb right up into the trees and they don't just pick out the fruit. They eat EVERYTHING they can reach, including twigs and leaves and stripping the bark off the tree.

The increased demand for the oil means that poor families with a few trees and a lot of goats are sending the goats in a lot more often, which results in more damage to the tree than it can recover from before the next harvest. Gradually a lot of these trees are producing fewer and fewer fruits, which makes the families more desperate for increased production, which means they leave the goats up there for longer periods of time and more often, which results in more damage to the trees, etc etc. Vicious cycle.

For this reason I am totally unwilling to even try argan oil, even if I were willing to ignore what it did to my hair as a shampoo/conditioner ingredient. There are way way WAY too many other oils that can benefit the hair. Why fixate on one that is causing environmental problems and will ultimately lead to MORE rather than less impoverishment for the people who own the trees?

[Jadestorm]

I like it, but I only use a little as a leave. So I don't drench my hair in it like I do with other oils ;)

[Milady_DeWinter]

I'd love to try argan oil, but may be next year... Or so, when I could get a well paid job :P Meanwhile I'll stay with coconut and almond oil, as well as castor oil; those 3 guys seems to be good enough for my hair by now.

[Obsidian]

You'd think the would be someplace harvesting seeds by hand instead of goat. Personally, I'd be happy to pay more for oil that hasn't been dug out of poo.

[pandabarrier]

I've never tried argan oil, but after reading the last pages of this thread I think I'll pass.

[Groovy Granny]

Wow, I never knew all that :puke:

I stopped using it because it stained my white/silver hair. :(
Thankfully silver whitening and clarifying shampoos reversed the staining :p