Two Popular Hair Oils
Argan and jojoba both show up in shampoos, conditioners and styling products. They are often mentioned together, but they are different ingredients with different feels.
| Feature | Argan oil | Jojoba oil |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Kernels of the argan tree (Morocco) | Seeds of the jojoba shrub (North America) |
| Type | Plant oil rich in oleic and linoleic acids | Liquid wax ester, not a true oil |
| Feel | Silky, slightly richer | Light, slippery |
| Scent | Mild, nutty (cold-pressed) | Almost none |
| Typical use | Conditioning, shine, frizz | Light conditioning, scalp massage |
What Is Different
- Composition. Argan is a triglyceride oil with oleic and linoleic acids and vitamin E. Jojoba is chemically a wax ester, often described as similar to the skin's own sebum.
- Weight on hair. Jojoba tends to feel lighter; argan feels a bit richer and gives more visible softness and shine.
- Scent. Cold-pressed argan has a mild nutty scent; jojoba is nearly odorless.
Which Is Better for Styling?
Neither is a styling agent by itself: they condition and smooth. In a styling cream the hold comes from other ingredients such as clay. Arganiss pairs clay with cold-pressed argan oil because it gives smoothness and shine without weighing hair down when used in small amounts.
See how a clay and oil pair in hair cream vs clay, or compare other oils in hair cream or hair oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. They are compatible; use a few drops of either on damp ends, and a styling cream for hold.
Fine hair usually prefers lighter products and small amounts. Jojoba feels lighter, but either works if you use little.
Argan oil is the ingredient. See argan oil vs Moroccan oil.
