Argania Spinosa
INCI: Argan Oil
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Argan Oil
Name of the tree from which argan oil is sourced Contains beneficial lipids and fatty acids (oleic acid, palmitic acid, linoleic acid)
EWG Safety Score
What Is Argania Spinosa?
Argania spinosa is the name of the tree from which argan oil is sourced. Argan oil contains several beneficial lipids and fatty acids for skin, including oleic acid, palmitic acid, and, especially, linoleic acid. It is also a good source of antioxidant vitamin E (tocopherol) and, like several other plant oils, a source of other antioxidant compounds.Despite the hype, argan oil isn’t a miraculous ingredient by any stretch of the imagination. It’s merely a good, emollient, non-fragrant plant oil. It’s a consideration if skin or hair is dry to very dry, but is not necessarily any better than many other non-fragrant plant oils used in cosmetics. As with any plant oil, those with oily skin should think twice before applying it full strength as doing so will make skin look and feel greasy.
Clinical Evidence & References
- International Journal of Molecular Sciences, December 2017, ePublication
- The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, December 2010, issue 12, pages 1669-1675
- Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, June 2007, issue 2, pages 113-118
- Clinical Nutrition, October 2004, issue 5, pages 1159-1166
- Journal of Ethnopharmacology, October 1999, issue 1, pages 7-14
Published Research
-
Argan oil: occurrence, composition and impact on human health Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr, 2017
-
Argan oil as an effective moisturizer in cosmetics Clin Interv Aging, 2014
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
Not sure what your skin actually needs?
Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.
Take the skin quizRelated Ingredients
Arctium Lappa Fruit Extract
A plant-derived antioxidant that may help reduce signs of ageing and support skin resilience
Arctium Lappa Root Extract
Also known as burdock root Contributes to skin’s environment defense
Arctostaphylos Uva Ursi Leaf Extract
Antioxidant-rich plant extract Helps visibly minimise premature skin ageing
Arginine Aminophosphonobutyric Acid
An amino acid derivative with antioxidant and conditioning properties
Argon
An inert gas with antioxidant potential, primarily used in medical skin treatments
Aristotelia Chilensis Fruit Juice
A berry-derived antioxidant that helps protect skin from environmental stress
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.