
Everything You Need to Know About Argan oil for hair in Singapore
Key Takeaways
- Argan oil acts as a natural hydrator, shield, and softener, with minimal weight.
- It reduces breakage, tames frizz, and can support scalp health when used well.
- Use it strategically (pre-wash mask, leave-in, finishing touch) rather than slapping it on.
- Quality (cold-pressed, pure, no fillers) matters a lot.
- In humid climates like Singapore layering argan with lighter formulas helps.
Argan oil is a nutrient-rich natural oil that hydrates, smooths, and strengthens hair without leaving a greasy finish.
Packed with vitamin E and fatty acids, it helps tame frizz, repair split ends, and protect against heat, making it a must-have for managing hair in humid climates like Singapore or Malaysia.
But does it really work or is it just internet hocus-pocus? Today, we’ll explore what makes argan oil so effective, how to use it correctly, which hair types benefit most, and how to pick quality argan-infused products that work perfectly for you.
Let’s begin!
What Exactly Is Argan Oil?
Argan oil comes from pressing the kernels of the Argania spinosa tree, native to Morocco. When done properly (cold-pressed, minimal heat), it keeps its richness in:
- Vitamin E & antioxidants: Neutralising free radicals
- Oleic acid & linoleic acid: Fatty acids that help moisturise and penetrate
- Squalene, sterols, polyphenols: They support repair, barrier function, and shine
Argan oil is rich in oleic and linoleic acids. Like many plant oils, it forms a lubricating film on hair that reduces friction and improves combing.
“For argan oil, the best-supported benefits are surface conditioning and mitigating oxidative damage to fibers.”
When you apply argan oil, the idea is:
- Forms a thin, lubricating film that reduces friction/combing forces (helps with smoothness and shine).
- Helps mitigate oxidative damage seen in lab tests, still use a dedicated heat protectant/UV filter for high-heat styling or strong sun.
Why It Works: The Science & Mechanisms
Let’s get geeky for a moment (but not too much). Here’s how argan oil does its hair magic:
|
Mechanism |
Benefit |
Source / Evidence |
|
Antioxidant activity |
Helps reduce oxidative stress on hair proteins |
General properties of vitamin E & polyphenols |
|
Anti-inflammatory / soothing |
May calm itchy, flaky scalps |
Sources note linoleic acid’s anti-inflammatory effect |
|
Penetration + emollient barrier |
Moisturises from inside and seals outside |
Argan is both penetrative and sealing |
|
Improves scalp circulation (via massage) |
Indirect support for growth environment |
Blogs often cite better circulation when massaged. |
|
Protection from heat / UV |
Thin film helps reduce damage from styling / sun |
Vogue mentions that it forms a barrier without drying |
Because of that double-action (penetrate + seal), argan often outperforms heavier oils in terms of feel and manageability, especially in humid conditions.
The Real Benefits of Argan oil for Hair
Here are the benefits you will feel / see when using argan oil well:
- Hydration + softness for dry strands
- Frizz / flyaway control, especially in humidity
- Reduced breakage / split ends — helps reinforce weak points
- Heat & UV defence when styling outdoors
- Scalp soothing / better environment for hair growth
- Shine / luster without greasiness
- Color retention for dyed hair
Some articles and claims go further, claiming hair growth.
While argan oil won’t force new hair to sprout, it can support healthier follicles, reduce breakage, and help preserve what you already have.
Which Hair Types Benefit Most, and When to Be Cautious
Argan oil is pretty versatile, but usage and expectations vary by hair type.
-
Fine / thin hair: Use sparingly (1–2 drops), apply only from mid-length to ends to avoid flattening your hair.
-
Normal / slightly dry hair: Good as a weekly leave-in or finishing oil.
-
Thick / coarse / frizzy hair: You can go a bit heavier or mix with richer oils or butters.
-
Colored / chemically treated hair: A great ally, it helps restore lipids and protect colour.
- Sensitive / oily scalp: Use less on scalp, focus on lengths. Do a patch test, especially if nut allergies apply (argan is a tree-nut byproduct).
Be cautious if your scalp tends to congest or if you already use heavy oils, layering too many could lead to buildup.
How to Use Argan Oil Well (Step-by-step)
Here are strategic ways to include argan oil without making your hair greasy:
1) Pre-Shampoo / Overnight Treatment
Apply a generous amount, especially to ends and dry areas, leave 30 min–overnight, then shampoo as usual.
2) Leave-In / Moisture Booster
After towel-drying, warm 1–3 drops between palms, apply mid-length to ends. Comb through.
3) Finishing / Styling Serum
Use 1 drop on dry hair to calm frizz and add shine, especially to outer layers.
4) Add to Products
Mix a drop or two into your conditioner or mask to boost hydrating power.
5) Layer Smartly
In humid climates, use a lightweight cream or leave-in first, then seal with argan oil — this helps balance moisture without heaviness.
Tip: Start with less than you think you need — you can always add more.
Common Mistakes When using Argan Oil
Here are what people often do wrong, and how to fix:
- Too much oil → limp or greasy hair
- Applying to roots → clogged scalp or flat volume
- Using on unwashed hair → seals in dirt / leftover product
- Ignoring product expiry / quality → rancid oil damages hair
- Expecting magic overnight: Consistency and technique matter
- Switching brands too often: Giving your hair time to adapt helps
If you still see frizz or dullness, check if your shampoo or styling tools counteract your oils (harsh surfactants, high heat).
Argan Oil vs Other Oils: Which to Use When
|
Oil |
Best For |
Use Case |
Notes |
|
Argan |
Balanced hydration + shine + sealing |
Daily use |
Non-greasy for most, good for humid environments |
|
Jojoba |
Scalp balancing, lightweight |
Oily scalp / frequent use |
Good alternative when argan feels heavy |
|
Coconut |
Deep penetration |
Dry / thick hair |
Can be too heavy or cause build-up |
|
Almond, Avocado, Olive |
Rich nourishment |
Dry ends / deep masks |
Heavier feel, layering helps |
You can mix oils in small proportions ( 80% argan + 20% jojoba) to fine-tune the effect.
What to Look for in Quality Argan Oil
Because the market has lots of subpar oils (especially Shopee), here’s your buying checklist:
- 100% pure argania spinosa kernel oil (no vague “argan extract”)
- Cold-pressed / unrefined (no heat, minimal refining)
- Stored in dark / UV-protective bottles
- No silicones, parabens, sulfates
- Transparent ingredient list, third-party test / certificate is a plus
If the oil smells strongly of perfume or has a very clear, light color, it could be adulterated or heavily refined.
Best Argan Oil Products for Every Hair Need on Top Secret
1. O’Care Oil of Argan Treatment
Lightweight daily serum that restores shine and smoothness without grease.
Ideal For: Frizzy, dull, or heat-damaged hair that needs everyday polish.
Why We Like It: Absorbs fast and instantly softens rough strands. It creates a silky finish that lasts even in Singapore’s humidity, making it a reliable pre-styling or finishing oil.
Ingredients: Silicone-based serum with Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (cyclopentasiloxane, dimethicone, dimethiconol + argan oil).
How to Use: Apply 2–3 drops on towel-dried or dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends before blow-drying or heat styling.
Price: $38.00 (1 for 20 %, 3 for 33 %)
2. O’Care Oil of Argan Hair Mask
Deep-conditioning mask that restores softness and hydration in a single use.
Ideal For: Dry, brittle, coloured, or chemically treated hair needing a weekly reset.
Why We Like It: Rich and creamy texture that penetrates each strand, improving elasticity and reducing breakage without leaving residue. Perfect for home spa nights or post-salon treatments.
Ingredients: Argan Oil, Lecithin, Keratin, Hyaluronic Acid.
How to Use: After shampooing, apply evenly through damp hair, leave for 5–10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
Price: $46.00 (1 for 20 %, 3 for 33 %)
3. OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Conditioner
Everyday conditioner that smooths, detangles, and softens hair for easy styling.
Ideal For: Normal to dry hair seeking quick nourishment at an affordable price.
Why We Like It: Infused with Moroccan argan oil and silk proteins, it strengthens the hair shaft while giving a glossy finish. Ideal for busy mornings or low-maintenance routines.
Ingredients: Argan Oil of Morocco, Silk Proteins.
How to Use: Massage into hair after shampoo, leave 2–3 minutes, then rinse.
Price: $9.90 (Save $8.10)
How to Choose the Right One
- Daily styling and humidity control? Go for the O’Care Oil of Argan Treatment.
- Deep repair or colour recovery? The O’Care Hair Mask is your weekly saviour.
- Simple and affordable care? Try the OGX Conditioner for a quick moisture boost.
No matter your routine, Top Secret has an argan-infused formula tailored to your lifestyle and climate.
Conclusion: Argan oil is Amazing but not a Elixir
Argan oil is not a magic potion, but when you understand how and when to use it, its benefits can be really impressive.
With our carefully curated argan line (pure, clean, tested) of hair care products, you can enjoy the perks of “liquid gold” without the fuss.
Try it out for a few weeks, observe how your hair responds, and tweak usage accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Argan oil for Hair
Is Argan Oil Good For Hair?
Yes. It hydrates, reduces frizz, strengthens weak strands, and helps protect from heat and UV damage.
How Often Should I Use Argan Oil On Hair?
2–3 times per week is good for most hair, fine hair may prefer once every few days.
Can Argan Oil Promote Hair Growth?
It doesn’t force new follicles, but by improving scalp health and reducing breakage, it supports thicker-looking, healthier hair.
Does Argan Oil Weigh Hair Down?
It can if overused. Use small amounts and apply to mid-lengths to ends, especially on fine hair.
Can I Use Argan Oil On Scalp?
Yes, if your scalp is dry or flaky, but patch test first, and avoid if you have oily / congested scalp.
How To Tell If Argan Oil Is Good Quality?
Check for “100% argania spinosa kernel oil,” cold-pressed / unrefined, dark bottle, no added fragrances or silicones.











