Olive oil has been a favorite for skin and hair care for a long time. But, argan oil is now a strong competitor. Both oils have many health, beauty, and skin benefits. We’ll look at argan oil vs olive oil to see which is best for you.
Olive oil has 14% saturated fats, 11% polyunsaturated fats, and 73% monounsaturated fats1. Argan oil, on the other hand, has up to 80% unsaturated fats, with 47% oleic acid and 32% linoleic acid1. It also has more vitamin E than olive oil1. Olive oil is often used in cooking, while argan oil is mostly for cosmetics. But, argan oil is becoming popular in cooking too1. Both oils can lose quality if heated too much1.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Olive oil and argan oil both offer a range of health, beauty, and skin benefits.
- Argan oil is higher in unsaturated fats and vitamin E compared to olive oil.
- Olive oil is a traditional cooking ingredient, while argan oil is primarily used in cosmetics but is also gaining recognition as a culinary ingredient.
- Both oils can be affected by high temperatures, which can degrade their quality.
- The choice between argan oil and olive oil depends on personal preference and specific needs for skin and hair care.
What Is Olive Oil?
Olive oil comes from the olives of the olive tree, a plant from the Mediterranean2. It’s not just for cooking but also great for skin and hair. This oil is made directly from whole olives and is packed with nutrients and antioxidants.
Olive Oil’s Unique Composition
Extra virgin olive oil has up to 83% oleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid good for the skin2. Regular olive oil has much less, about 46%2. This high oleic acid level helps reduce skin irritation and fine lines2.
Olive oil is full of antioxidants like chlorophyll and carotenoids3. These fight off free radicals and shield the skin from harm2. They keep the skin hydrated, look better, and fight aging signs2.
Olive Oil’s Skin and Hair Benefits
Olive oil is great for skin and hair problems2. It moisturizes the skin, replaces lost oils, and shields it from damage2. Products like the Biphase Moisturizing Oil protect against free radicals and hydrate deeply2.
For hair, olive oil makes strands strong, fights frizz, and adds shine4. But, don’t put it on your scalp to avoid oiliness or hair loss4.
Olive oil’s special mix of oleic acid and antioxidants makes it great for skin and hair2. Adding it to your daily routine can boost your health and beauty.
What Is Argan Oil?
Argan oil comes from the kernels of the argan tree, native to Morocco5. It’s mainly used in cosmetics and beauty, but also eaten in Morocco5. Like olive oil, it’s full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are good for health and beauty6.
It has a special mix of fatty acids. About 29–36% is linoleic acid, and 43–49% is oleic acid7. These acids make it great for moisturizing skin and hair7. Plus, it’s packed with vitamin E, an antioxidant that fights aging and free radicals7.
Argan oil is also good for health. Studies show it can lower inflammation, cholesterol, and blood sugar, and even stop some cancer cells from growing7. More research is needed, but it looks promising for health benefits.
Argan oil is great for skin, hair, and overall health. It’s a natural ingredient worth trying.
Argan Oil vs Olive Oil for Skin
Both argan oil and olive oil are great for skin care. Argan oil absorbs quickly into the skin because of its small molecules8. Olive oil is packed with vitamin E and fatty acids, perfect for dry skin8. But, olive oil might not be good for acne-prone skin as it can clog pores8.
Studies reveal that extra virgin olive oil has a lot of oleic acid, more than argan oil9. This makes olive oil good for fighting fine lines and wrinkles9. It also helps reduce skin irritation when taken inside9.
Face oils like Biphase Moisturizing Oil protect the skin from damage and keep collagen strong9. Replenishing Balm, with olive oil, hydrates and repairs the skin better than argan oil9. Olive oil can also help fade dark spots and blemishes9.
Experts and users prefer extra virgin olive oil for its skin benefits9. Olive oil’s oleic acid boosts skin health and fights breakouts9. It also protects the skin from dirt and keeps it healthy9.
Olive oil doesn’t replace sunscreen but helps protect against sun damage9. Argan oil is good for all skin types because it absorbs fast8. Other oils like rosehip and marula also offer unique benefits for different skin needs8.
| Skin BenefitOlive OilArgan Oil | ||
|---|---|---|
| Molecular Size | Larger molecules, may not absorb as quickly | Smaller molecules, absorb more quickly |
| Skin Types | Best for dry skin, may clog pores for other types | Recommended for all skin types |
| Antioxidant Properties | High in oleic acid, helps reduce fine lines | Moderate oleic acid content |
| Anti-inflammatory Benefits | Can help reduce irritation when ingested | No significant anti-inflammatory properties |
| Skin Barrier Protection | Can help reinforce the skin barrier | Limited barrier-strengthening effects |
| Pricing (16.9 fl. oz.) | $29 | $422.50 |
Argan oil and olive oil both have their own skin care benefits. Argan oil suits all skin types, while olive oil is best for dry skin. Olive oil stands out with its high oleic acid, antioxidants, and barrier-strengthening effects9810.
Argan Oil vs Olive Oil for Face
Argan oil and olive oil are great for your face. Olive oil moisturizes well, especially on damp skin to lock in moisture. Argan oil helps control oil and makes skin smooth and balanced11.
Argan oil is great for acne. It has fatty acids and antioxidants that calm and clear the skin. This makes it perfect for oily or acne-prone skin7.
Olive oil deeply moisturizes and protects the skin from dryness and flakiness. It’s great for dry, cracked skin, making it supple and glowing11.
Both argan oil and olive oil are good for the skin. Argan oil is better for controlling oil and acne. Olive oil is best for deep hydration. Choose based on your skin type and needs12.
| Characteristic | Argan Oil | Olive Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Comedogenic Rating | Non-comedogenic12 | Non-comedogenic12 |
| Fatty Acid Composition | Linoleic acid (29-36%), Oleic acid (43-49%)7 | Oleic acid (55-83%), Linoleic acid (3.5-21%)7 |
| Antioxidant Content | Rich in vitamin E7 | Contains antioxidants like polyphenols7 |
| Skin Benefits | Regulates oil production, helps treat acne7 | Deeply moisturizes, forms a protective barrier11 |
In summary, both argan oil and olive oil are great for your face. They have different uses based on your skin type and needs. Knowing their unique benefits helps you choose the right one for your skin goals.
Argan Oil vs Olive Oil for Hair Growth
Argan oil is a top choice for hair growth, beating olive oil. It’s full of vitamin E, vitamin D, and omega-3 and omega-9 fatty acids13. These nutrients work together to help both new and old hair follicles grow. Olive oil can’t match this13. Argan oil also deeply repairs hair damage and strengthens follicles13.
So, argan oil is great for healthy hair growth13. Olive oil also helps, but argan oil is more powerful in promoting hair growth13. Both oils are excellent for feeding the scalp and making hair healthier.
Argan oil is now easy to find in the US, even in big stores like Walmart13. It’s sold in the ethnic hair care and vitamins sections, costing less than $10 per bottle13. This makes it more popular as a hair care product.
Other oils like marula oil13 and grapeseed oil13 are also popular for hair care. They offer natural ways to grow and nourish hair. But, how well they work can depend on what each person needs13.
In summary, argan oil is the best choice for hair growth over olive oil. It goes deep into the hair shaft to repair damage and strengthen follicles13. While olive oil helps too, argan oil is better at making hair healthier and more vibrant.
Argan Oil vs Olive Oil: Which One Is Better?
Both argan oil and olive oil are popular for skin and hair care. They have many benefits, making people wonder which is better. Let’s look at the differences to help you decide6.
Olive oil is full of antioxidants and fatty acids, great for skin and scalp health6. Argan oil has lots of vitamin E and fatty acids, making it perfect for dry skin6. It also helps hair grow by nourishing both new and old hair follicles6.
Olive oil is good for moisturizing skin and preventing acne because it goes deep into the skin6. Argan oil is better for keeping lips and skin hydrated, thanks to its vitamin A and E6. It also makes cuticles and nails strong and moisturized, thanks to vitamin E6.
Argan oil is more expensive than olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil costs about $29 for 16.9 fl. oz. (500ml)14. Argan oil costs around $100 for 4 fl. oz. (120ml), or $422.50 for 16.9 fl. oz. (500ml)14. This price difference comes from argan oil’s hard extraction process and the rare argan tree14.
Choosing between argan oil and olive oil depends on what you like, your skin type, and your budget. Both oils have special benefits for your skin and hair. Using them can make your skin glow and your hair shiny14.
| Feature | Argan Oil | Olive Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Price (16.9 fl. oz. / 500ml) | $422.50 | $29 |
| Harvest Period | May to August | N/A |
| Extraction Method | Mechanical and manual (labor-intensive) | Mechanical |
| Tree Height and Width | Up to 50 feet tall and 50 feet wide | N/A |
| Lifespan | Up to 200 years | Can live for thousands of years |
| Skin Benefits | High saponification level, rich in squalene, oleic acid, vitamin E, and antioxidants | Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant-rich, promotes wound healing, repairs skin barrier, rich in vitamin E |
| Feel on Skin | Lighter, absorbs well, mixes well with lotions and serums | Heavier, takes longer to absorb, more moisturizing |
Argan oil and olive oil both have many benefits for skin and hair. But, the choice depends on what you prefer and how much you want to spend. Argan oil is pricier but great for moisturizing, hair growth, and nail care. Olive oil is cheaper and also has its own skin benefits.
The best oil for you might depend on your skin and hair needs and how much you’re willing to spend on argan oil. Try both and see which works best for you.
Conclusion
Argan oil and olive oil are great for skin and hair health. Argan oil is full of vitamin E and antioxidants that protect the skin from damage15. It works well on all skin types and helps reduce signs of aging15.
Argan oil also moisturizes well, which can lessen fine lines, wrinkles, and acne15.
Olive oil is packed with healthy fats and vitamin E, keeping skin moisturized and protected15. It’s perfect for dry and older skin, locking in moisture and making skin soft again15. Olive oil also fights aging signs and is great for anti-aging skincare15.
Both argan oil and olive oil are beneficial for skin and hair. Argan oil protects against DNA damage and reduces cell death16. Olive oil, along with argan oil, helps protect against oxidative stress and inflammation16.
Choosing between argan oil and olive oil depends on your skin and hair type, as well as what you prefer. Using either oil daily can make your skin look younger and your hair stronger and healthier.
FAQ
What is the difference between argan oil and olive oil?
Olive oil and argan oil are both plant-based oils with health and beauty perks. Olive oil comes from olive trees, while argan oil is from the nuts of the argan tree in Morocco. They have different skin, hair, and health benefits.
What are the benefits of argan oil?
Argan oil is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids. It offers many benefits: – Moisturizes and nourishes skin – Improves skin elasticity and reduces aging signs – Treats acne and lowers inflammation – Strengthens and conditions hair – Promotes hair growth – Offers natural sun protection
What are the benefits of olive oil?
Olive oil is versatile and has many health and beauty perks. It includes: – Moisturizes and softens skin – Reduces inflammation and redness – Protects against sun damage – Improves hair shine and manageability – Promotes healthy hair growth – Is a rich source of healthy fats and antioxidants
How do I use argan oil and olive oil for skin and hair?
You can use argan oil and olive oil on skin and hair in different ways: – Apply a few drops to clean skin and massage for moisturizing. – Use as a hair mask by applying to scalp and hair, then rinse after 30 minutes. – Mix a few drops into your daily moisturizer or serum for extra hydration. – Drizzle a small amount over salads, pastas, or bread for flavor and cooking.
Which oil is better for my skin type?
The choice between argan oil and olive oil depends on your skin type and needs. Argan oil is great for oily or acne-prone skin because it won’t clog pores. Olive oil is perfect for dry, mature, or sensitive skin. Talk to a dermatologist to find the best oil for your skin.
How do argan oil and olive oil compare for hair growth?
Both oils can help with hair growth, but argan oil might be stronger. It has more vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids that feed the hair follicles and scalp. Olive oil also helps but not as much. For the best hair growth, argan oil might be better, but olive oil is still a good choice.
Source Links
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- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/argan-oil – 12 Benefits and Uses of Argan Oil
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- https://www.aromaazinternational.com/blog/cat/carrier-oils/post/argan-carrier-oil-vs-ollive-carrier-oil-for-skin/ – Argan Carrier Oil vs Olive Carrier Oil for Skin: Unveiling the Ultimate Elixir
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