Beauty Moroccan Oil Treatment Guide: Benefits, Use And Buying Tips
An educational guide from the Beauty AMZ research team. No hard sell, just what you need to know.
What Moroccan oil is
Moroccan oil in haircare usually refers to argan oil treatments inspired by the argan oil of Morocco. The Moroccanoil brand built its reputation on the Moroccanoil Treatment, an argan-oil-based styling oil launched by the brand. It comes in Original, Light and Purple versions for different hair types and colors. The formula absorbs quickly, adds shine and serves as a foundation for styling. It is one of the best-selling hair oils in the world. Moroccan oil usually refers to argan-oil-based hair treatments from Morocco. The Moroccanoil brand made the ingredient famous worldwide. Argan kernels yield the precious golden oil. It remains a beauty staple.
How argan oil benefits hair
Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, antioxidants and essential fatty acids that nourish the hair shaft. It smooths the cuticle, which reduces frizz and increases shine by helping hair reflect light. The oil also provides a light barrier against humidity and environmental stress. In the Moroccanoil formula, additional conditioning agents help it absorb faster than pure oil. Regular use leaves hair softer, smoother and more manageable. Argan oil contains fatty acids and vitamin E that nourish hair deeply. It smooths the cuticle and reduces frizz on contact. The oil also speeds up blow-drying time. Shine improves instantly with use.
How to use the treatment
Apply one to three pumps to damp, towel-dried hair from mid-lengths to ends. Comb through for even distribution, then blow dry or style as usual. For extra shine, smooth a small amount over dry hair as a finisher. Use it before heat styling to add protection and smoothness. A little goes a long way, so start with less and add more only if needed. Dispense one to two pumps into your palms. Work through damp hair from mid-lengths to ends. Style as usual, or apply a drop to dry hair for finishing shine. Add more only if needed. Start with less.
Tips for buying safely
Purchase from authorized retailers or the official brand store to avoid counterfeits. Check reviews for complaints about scent or texture, which signal fakes. Compare the bottle, pump and labeling to photos on the official site. Avoid third-party sellers with prices far below retail. Keep your receipt in case you need to verify authenticity with the brand. Buy from Amazon, Sephora, Ulta or authorized salons to avoid fakes. Check that the packaging looks crisp and the scent smells like spicy amber. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true. Register your product if the brand offers it. Trust your instincts.
Common mistakes to avoid
Using the Original version on very fine hair leads to limp, oily-looking roots. Applying the oil to the scalp instead of the lengths causes faster greasiness. Expecting the treatment to repair split ends sets you up for disappointment. Buying from unverified sellers risks counterfeit product with unknown ingredients. Overusing the Purple version can leave a violet cast on very light hair. Using too much oil makes hair look greasy instead of glossy. Applying it to the roots weighs down fine hair fast. Storing the bottle in heat and sunlight degrades the argan oil. Keep the cap tightly closed. A cool shelf works best.
Recommended Products
These are the products our research team rates highest in this category.
Best for: Anyone wanting the classic argan oil finish.
Moroccanoil Treatment, 1.7 Fl Oz
- Original argan oil treatment
- 1.7 fl oz bottle
- Absorbs fast, never greasy
- For all hair types
Pros
- Iconic shine and softness
- A little goes a long way
Cons
- Premium price
- Signature scent divides opinion
Best for: Blondes fighting brassiness on the go.
Moroccanoil Treatment Purple Hair Oil for Blonde Hair, 0.85 Fl Oz
- Purple formula for blonde hair
- 0.85 fl oz travel size
- Neutralizes brassy tones
- Argan oil nourishment
Pros
- Tones while it nourishes
- Travel friendly size
Cons
- Small bottle
- Only suits blonde or light hair
Best for: Daily users wanting the best long-term value.
Moroccanoil Treatment, 3.4 Fl Oz
- Original treatment in 3.4 fl oz
- Argan oil rich formula
- Best-selling hair oil
- Conditions, smooths and adds shine
Pros
- Best value per ounce
- Bottle lasts for months
Cons
- High upfront cost
- Pump sold separately
Ready to Choose?
See our top product picks for moroccan oil treatment, or jump straight to the head-to-head comparison of the two most popular options.
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