Original argan oil, cold-pressed
Our pick🛒 View on Amazon → 🛒 View alternative →What matters when buying
Cold-pressed
Cold-pressed oil is extracted without heating and is considered to be produced more gently. Heat-treated oil is often cheaper.
100% purity
Look for “100% argan oil” in the ingredient list. “With argan oil” says nothing about the proportion – it may be a blend.
Cosmetic vs. culinary oil
Cosmetic oil is neutral and unroasted. Culinary oil smells nutty and is not meant for the skin.
Dark glass
Light can make oils age faster. Dark glass instead of clear glass/plastic protects better and is a sensible quality feature.
Comparison: 3 argan oil varieties
| Criterion | Organic-certifiedRecommended | Standard, cold-pressed | Budget option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity | 100%, certified | 100%, uncertified | Proportion often unclear |
| Bottling | Dark glass | Dark glass | partly clear glass/plastic |
| Ideal for | Face (test on a small area first) | Body, hair | not recommended |
Buying advice in detail
Argan oil is extracted from the seeds of the argan tree. An important distinction: there is oil for cosmetics and oil for the kitchen. The two are not interchangeable, so it pays to check the label when buying.
Cosmetic or culinary
Cosmetic argan oil is labeled as a cosmetic product, culinary oil as a food. Use each only for its intended purpose. An oil that is not explicitly sold as a food does not belong in the kitchen.
Ingredient list and INCI
For cosmetics, the name appears on the packaging as its INCI designation: Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil. This shows what is in it. If it only says “Parfum” or a mixture without Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, it is not pure argan oil.
Purity and additives
A pure oil lists only one ingredient. Blends with other oils, fragrances, or preservatives are possible, but they must appear in the list. Percentages for the proportion are rare.
Packaging and shelf life
Dark glass protects against light. On cosmetics, the open-jar symbol shows the shelf life after opening in months (PAO).
Seller and origin
For cosmetics, the responsible person with an address in the EU must be stated on the packaging. An origin is only listed if the manufacturer chooses to give one – check it instead of assuming.
When you'd better not buy
- You have a nut or tree allergy or are unsure: talk to a doctor before using the oil.
- You want an oil for eating and the listing is described as cosmetic: then don't eat it.
- You are looking for a product with a promised effect: cosmetics can care for your skin, but they don't replace treatment.
Use & care
- Do a patch test before the first use: put a little oil on the inside of your elbow and watch for 24 hours. If redness or itching occurs, do not continue using it.
- Dose sparingly. Avoid eyes and mucous membranes. If irritation occurs, rinse with water.
- Store in a dark, cool place, close tightly, and use within the stated time after opening. More in the argan oil guide.
Frequently asked questions about argan oil
Can I use argan oil every day?
Many people use a few drops for the face or hair ends. Test on a small area first; stop using if skin irritation occurs.
How do I recognize counterfeit or diluted argan oil?
A missing ingredient list or missing information about origin and bottler are warning signs; a conspicuously low price can also be a reason for suspicion. Authenticity cannot be reliably checked without a lab.
Do I pay more through the Amazon link?
No. The price is identical to any other Amazon link. We receive a commission from Amazon on qualifying purchases – at no extra cost to you.
Can I eat cosmetic argan oil?
No, only oil that is explicitly sold as a food is intended for consumption.
How do I recognize purity?
Best checked in the ingredient list: for cosmetics, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil as the only ingredient. Appearance or price alone say little.
Which skin is it suitable for?
That can't be said across the board. Skin tolerance is individual, which is why the patch test matters.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I am a participant in the Amazon Associates Program.