TLDR : The short answer is no, argan oil, by itself, does not cause hair loss. Quite the opposite it:
- Nourishes and hydrates dry or frizzy hair
- Reduces breakage and split ends
- Help to protect hair from heat styling
- Soothes dry or flaky scalp
- Improves hair stretchiness, strength and shine
In fact, when used moderately and as part of a routine, argan oil promotes healthier hair and scalp conditions which can begin to prevent hair loss.
It is important to understand the situations where you may seem to be experiencing hair loss whilst using a hair product and why.
1. Allergies
It is always recommended, when using any oil, to do a simple patch test, where you dab a bit of the oil behind your ear onto the skin and monitor it for 24 hours. If there is a reaction, stop using it and speak to a doctor.
Argan oil of Morocco is made from the nut of the argan tree, now whilst argan oil allergies are rare, they can occur. Some people may experience scalp inflammation or irritation / itchiness due to the ingredients in argan oil. If these allergies reoccur over time they can be damaging to the hair follicles, which can result in hair shedding and loss.
2. Product Build-Up
Too much of anything is never a good thing, and it is the same principle for argan oil. In fact, less is more with argan oil.
Now using too much of any oil, or combining multiple products such as oil with other waxes or silicones can cause what we call – product build-up.
This is when the oils and products layer ontop of each other and remain on your scalp (even when washed), and can result in blocked pores. It is these blocked pores that lead to an unhealthy scalp environment which impacts healthy hair growth and can also result in hair loss.
3. General Hair Loss
Argan oil is known for its hydrating and moisturing properties, however it is not a silver bullet. If you do notice your hair is thinning or is damaged look at things holistically. This is why argan oil is part of a hair care routine and isn’t THE hair care routine.
Check your diet, hormones, stresses, other products you are using as well as environmental factors e.g. sun to work through what might be causing you hair thinning or loss.
4. Top Quality vs Low Quality
It is always important to check you are getting the best value / version of argan oil for your money. As with anything, to save money, some manufacturers mix additional ingredients, preservatives, add synthetic fragrances which by THEMSELVES can cause you irritation and are things your body would react to.
Always look for pure argan oil of Morocco, cold-pressed, organic argan oil for the best natural results.