What is the Difference Between Moroccan Oil and Argan Oil

The main difference between Moroccan oil and argan oil is that argan oil is pure oil, while Moroccan oil is a combination of argan oil and several other ingredients.

Although most people assume Moroccan oil and argan oil to be the same, there is a difference in their ingredients, as explained above. Moreover, when it comes to their usage, Moroccan oil helps you to make your hair more manageable, while argan oil helps you to repair damaged hair.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Moroccan Oil  
     – Definition, Features 
2. What is Argan Oil
     – Definition, Features 
3. Similarities Between Moroccan Oil and Argan Oil
     – Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Moroccan Oil and Argan Oil
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Argan Oil, Moroccan Oil 

Difference Between Moroccan Oil and Argan Oil - Comparison Summary

What is Moroccan Oil

Moroccan oil is a rare oil produced out of the kernels of argan nuts. Argan trees are native to  Morocco. This has led to the origin of the name “Moroccan Oil.” In order to produce this oil, the manufacturers first dry the argan fruits under the sun. Next, they extract the nuts out of the dried fruits. The extracted nuts are then cracked and pressed, releasing the oil. Manufacturers also add other ingredients like silicone or aloe vera to this oil to make it more beneficial.

Moroccan Oil and Argan Oil

Figure 01: Argan Seeds

Moroccan oil supply is quite limited to the international market mainly because argan trees are available only in the land of Morocco. Consequently, Moroccan oil has become one of the rarest and most expensive cosmetic oils one might come across.

Moroccan oil is rich in omega fatty acids. Omega fatty acids help you to get rid of dry skin and also help to make your damaged hair shine back. Furthermore, the phenols present in Moroccan oil helps to maintain a healthy scalp, balancing the pH levels properly. Most importantly,  Moroccan oil is rich in linoleum acids and vitamin E. They help to maintain the moisture of the skin and get rid of acne scars.

What is Argan Oil

Just like, Moroccan oil argan oil is also produced out of kernels plucked from the argan trees native to Morocco. Unlike Moroccan oil, argan oil is produced in its pure form. Therefore, it is possible either to apply argan oil directly on the skin or even to take it as a supplement capsule by mouth.

Moroccan Oil vs Argan Oil

Cosmetic manufacturers use argan oil to produce many byproducts such as soaps, conditioners, and shampoos. In the past, Moroccans used argan oil both orally and topically in order to boost their skin, hair, and nail health. Argan oil also brings you many benefits: it protects the skin from sun damage, moisturizes the skin, heals skin infections, helps to recover acne damaged skins, etc.

What are the Similarities Between Moroccan Oil and Argan Oil?

  • Both Moroccan oil and argan oil are extracted from argan nuts, which are native to Morocco.
  • Therefore, argan oil is supplied to the global market only by Morocco.
  • Both Moroccan oil and argan oil are rich in vitamin C and Omega fatty acids
  • Both Moroccan oil and argan oil greatly benefit human skin, hair, and nail health.

What is the Difference Between Moroccan Oil and Argan Oil

Definition

Argan oil is the pure oil extracted from the argan nuts, while Moroccan oil is a  combination of argan oil and several other ingredients.

Effect on Hair

Moroccan oil helps you to make your hair more manageable, while argan oil helps you to repair damaged hair.

Application

It is possible either to apply argan oil directly on the skin or even to take it in as a supplement capsule by mouth. However, when it comes to Moroccan oil, we only apply it externally and do not take it orally.

Conclusion

Simply put, the main difference between Moroccan oil and argan oil lies in the ingredients added when manufacturing them. Argan oil remains pure while manufacturers add several other ingredients in manufacturing Moroccan oil.

Reference:

1. Gotter, Ana. “Argan Oil for Skin: Benefits and Uses for All Skin Types.” Healthline, Healthline Media.
2. Loggins , Brittany. “Moroccan Oil Is the Secret to Treating Dry and Damaged Skin, Hair, and Nails.” Health.com.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Argan Tree Fruits” By Loyal Naturals(CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Pura D’or Argan Oil Product” By Tienvbui – Own work (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia

About the Author: Anuradha

Anuradha has a BA degree in English, French, and Translation studies. She is currently reading for a Master's degree in Teaching English Literature in a Second Language Context. Her areas of interests include Arts and Literature, Language and Education, Nature and Animals, Cultures and Civilizations, Food, and Fashion.

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