How to Apply Argan Oil for Smooth Hair, According to Pro Hairstylists

Dullness and dryness are common winter hair complaints, but a natural oil might make all the difference in your routine. Learning how to apply argan oil to hair, for example, can help support softness, shine, and a happier scalp all year round.

Argan oil is a natural oil that is rich in vitamin E and loaded with fatty acids and antioxidants—making it a common ingredient in both skin and hair care products. It’s often used (both as a whole-head overnight treatment and a post-styling sealing technique) to seal in hydration and tamp down frizz. “Applying it to dry hair helps seal in moisture, adds shine, and smooths frizz where it’s most effective,” says Christine Bellemare, co-owner of Maven A Collect salon in Boston.

Ready to enjoy softer strands and skip the greasy feeling? Ahead, we asked pros how to best incorporate argan oil into your hair routine.

How to apply argan oil to hair

For thin and fine hair

Argan and other natural oils “work well for all hair types, but the amount and method of application should vary,” Bellemare says. If you have fine or thin hair, she recommends starting with a drop or two in your palms, then raking it through your hair from mid-lengths to ends. Finish by running your palms over the surface of your hair to smooth any flyaways. This technique will keep your roots fresh and lock in hydration without making your hair feel weighed down.

For thick hair and curls

Thick hair and curly textures (which tend to be naturally drier) can often tolerate and benefit from using more oil. “For curly and wavy hair, hair oil helps define curls, reduce frizz, and seal in hydration,” Bellmare adds. Argan oil is also listed among the lighter hair care oils, which makes it an ideal choice if you have fine curls, or if product buildup is a concern in your curly hair routine.