Jojoba Oil vs. Argan Oil for Hair: Which One is Right for You?

Jojoba vs Argan Oil for Hair: Which is best?

Natural oils have been a go-to in hair care for centuries, and jojoba oil and argan oil are two of the most popular choices. Both promise shinier, healthier hair, better moisture retention, and scalp nourishment—but if you’re trying to choose between them, you might be wondering: which one is actually better?

The truth is, there’s no universal “best” oil—it all depends on your hair type and what your hair needs. Some people swear by jojoba oil for its ability to balance scalp oils and keep hair lightweight, while others find argan oil to be a miracle worker for taming frizz, hydrating dry strands, and protecting against damage.

So, how do you figure out which oil is right for you? Let’s break down their benefits, how they work for different hair types, and the best ways to use them.

Jojoba Oil vs. Argan Oil For Hair: At a Glance

When it comes to choosing between jojoba oil and argan oil, it helps to compare them side by side. Below is a quick breakdown of their benefits, how they work for different hair types, and their key differences.

Comparison Table

FeatureJojoba OilArgan Oil
Main BenefitsBalances scalp oil, lightweight hydration, strengthens hair, reduces dandruffDeep hydration, smooths frizz, protects from heat damage, adds shine
Best for Hair TypeOily scalp, fine hair, low-porosity hair, flaky scalpDry, frizzy, thick, or curly hair; damaged or color-treated hair
Texture & AbsorptionLight, non-greasy, easily absorbedRicher, slightly heavier, deeply moisturizing
Moisture LevelHydrating but not heavy, mimics natural scalp oilsIntense moisture, ideal for dry and damaged hair
Frizz ControlMinimal—better for scalp health than smoothing hairExcellent—coats the hair shaft, reducing frizz and flyaways
Hair Growth & Scalp HealthKeeps scalp balanced, helps reduce dandruff and inflammationNourishes scalp, may help prevent hair breakage and loss
Best UsesScalp massage, lightweight leave-in, mixing with shampooDeep conditioning, heat protection, smoothing treatment

Breaking Down the Differences

Jojoba Oil: Lightweight & Scalp-Friendly

jojoba oil

Jojoba oil is unique because it closely resembles the natural sebum our scalp produces. This makes it excellent for people with oily or fine hair, as it hydrates without making hair greasy or weighed down. If your scalp tends to get flaky or irritated, jojoba oil can help restore balance and reduce dandruff, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.

It’s also great for low-porosity hair—hair that struggles to absorb moisture—because it penetrates easily without leaving buildup. However, it’s not the best for smoothing frizz or intensely hydrating dry hair.

Argan Oil: Rich & Deeply Nourishing

Argan oil is packed with essential fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants, making it perfect for dry, frizzy, or damaged hair. It creates a protective layer over the hair shaft, locking in moisture, reducing breakage, and preventing split ends.

If you have thick, curly, or color-treated hair, argan oil is a great option because it smooths flyaways and enhances shine. It also offers some protection against heat styling and UV damage, making it ideal for those who frequently use hot tools. However, if you have fine or oily hair, it might feel too heavy if used in excess.

Which Oil Is Best for Your Hair Type?

💧 Dry Hair → Argan Oil
Argan oil provides intense hydration, making it the better choice for dry or brittle hair.

🦰 Fine Hair → Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is lightweight and won’t weigh fine hair down like argan oil might.

🌬 Frizzy Hair → Argan Oil
Argan oil coats the hair shaft, taming frizz and flyaways more effectively than jojoba oil.

Curly Hair → Argan Oil
Curly hair craves moisture, and argan oil’s richness helps define and nourish curls.

🧬 Low-Porosity Hair → Jojoba Oil
Since jojoba oil is similar to scalp oils, it absorbs better into low-porosity hair without build-up.

Both oils have amazing benefits, but the right choice comes down to your specific hair needs. Now that you know which oil suits your hair type best, let’s explore how they help with hair growth, hair loss, and the best ways to use them!

The Science Behind Each Oil

Both jojoba oil and argan oil are rich in nutrients that benefit hair, but they work in different ways. Understanding their composition helps explain why they’re so effective for scalp health, hydration, and protection.

Jojoba Oil: Nature’s Scalp Balancer

Jojoba oil isn’t technically an oil—it’s a liquid wax ester, meaning it closely resembles the natural sebum your scalp produces. This makes it excellent for balancing oil production, moisturizing without heaviness, and keeping the scalp healthy.

Key Nutrients & How They Work

🛡 Wax Esters – Mimic scalp oil, preventing excess greasiness or dryness.
🌿 Vitamin E – A powerful antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress, which can contribute to hair aging and thinning.
💧 Fatty Acids (Oleic & Erucic Acid) – Provide lightweight hydration without clogging hair follicles.
🔥 Anti-Inflammatory Properties – Helps soothe scalp irritation, reduce redness, and calm sensitive or itchy scalps.
🦠 Antibacterial & Antifungal Properties – Helps combat dandruff, scalp infections, and irritation, promoting a healthier scalp environment.

📌 Why It’s Unique: Absorbs easily, hydrates without heaviness, and supports a healthy, irritation-free scalp.

Argan Oil: The Ultimate Hair Protector

Often called “liquid gold,” argan oil is rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and vitamin E, making it a deep conditioner and natural hair protector.

Key Nutrients & How They Work

💧 Oleic & Linoleic Acids – Improve moisture retention, repair dryness, and strengthen hair strands.
🛡 Vitamin E – Shields hair from UV damage, pollution, and oxidative stress, preventing premature weakening of hair.
🔥 Squalene – A natural moisturizer that smooths frizz, enhances shine, and protects against heat damage.
🔗 Polyphenols & Ferulic Acid – Help repair and protect hair from environmental damage and free radicals, reducing long-term breakage and brittleness.

📌 Why It’s Unique: Provides deep hydration, repairs damage, smooths frizz, and shields hair from heat and external stressors.

Key Takeaways

  • Jojoba oil is ideal for scalp health, balancing oil production, soothing irritation, and preventing buildup.
  • Argan oil is best for hair hydration and protection, reducing frizz, repairing damage, and adding shine.

Now, let’s explore how these oils can support hair growth, prevent hair loss, and be used effectively!

Jojoba Oil vs. Argan Oil for Hair Growth & Hair Loss

Many people turn to natural oils in hopes of growing thicker, healthier hair or preventing hair loss. But do jojoba oil or argan oil actually promote hair growth? The answer isn’t straightforward—neither oil is a magic potion for instant hair growth, but both support scalp health and strengthen hair, which are key factors in reducing hair loss and encouraging healthier strands over time.

💡 Argan Oil & Hair Growth

While there’s no solid proof that argan oil makes hair grow faster, some research suggests that it may help create the right conditions for hair growth.

  • Argan oil contains linoleic acid, which has been studied for its role in reducing hair thinning and supporting hair follicle activity.
  • One small study on mice found that after applying a hair tonic with argan oil, their hair grew faster within 21 days.
  • While these studies are promising, more research is needed to confirm if argan oil directly helps human hair grow faster.

💡 Jojoba Oil & Hair Growth

Jojoba oil doesn’t have much scientific backing when it comes to stimulating hair growth, but that doesn’t mean it’s useless. A healthy scalp is essential for hair growth, and jojoba oil helps by keeping the scalp balanced and moisturized.

  • It mimics your scalp’s natural oils, which keeps the scalp from getting too dry or too oily—both of which can cause hair to fall out.
  • Some studies mention its traditional use for promoting hair growth, but there’s no solid scientific proof that jojoba oil speeds up hair growth (ACS Omega, 2024).

So, while argan oil has some early research suggesting it might help with hair growth, jojoba oil’s main role is to support a healthy scalp—an essential factor in keeping hair strong and preventing excessive shedding.

How Do These Oils Help with Hair Loss?

Hair loss is often caused by weak hair that breaks easily or scalp issues that lead to shedding. Both oils help in different ways:

🛡 Argan Oil Strengthens Hair to Prevent Breakage

If hair is weak or damaged, it’s more likely to snap and break, making it seem like you’re losing hair. Argan oil creates a protective layer around hair strands, helping to reduce damage from heat styling, coloring, and pollution.

  • A study found that argan oil significantly reduced protein loss in hair caused by chemical treatments like hair dye (Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022).
  • In simple terms: less protein loss = stronger hair = less breakage.

💧 Jojoba Oil Keeps the Scalp Healthy

A dry, flaky, or irritated scalp can lead to hair thinning and excessive shedding. Jojoba oil soothes the scalp, fights dandruff, and keeps hair follicles clear, creating the perfect environment for hair to grow.

  • Its antibacterial and antifungal properties help prevent minor scalp infections that can lead to hair loss (Rasayan Journal).
  • Since it balances scalp oil production, it prevents buildup that can clog follicles and cause hair to shed.

Final Verdict: Which Oil is Better for Hair Growth & Hair Loss?

Neither oil will magically regrow hair, but both can help reduce hair loss and keep hair healthier.

  • If your hair is weak, breaking easily, or damaged from styling, argan oil is the better choice because it strengthens and protects hair strands.
  • If you have scalp issues like dryness, dandruff, or excess oil, jojoba oil is ideal for keeping the scalp balanced and hair follicles healthy.

For the best results, use these oils consistently as part of your routine. Healthy hair and scalp = less hair loss and stronger, longer strands over time!

putting argan oil on the hair strands

How to Use Jojoba and Argan Oil for Maximum Results

Now that we know how jojoba oil and argan oil benefit the hair and scalp, let’s talk about the best ways to use them. Whether you’re looking to nourish your scalp, reduce frizz, or add extra moisture, using these oils the right way will help you get the best results without making hair greasy or weighed down.

1. Pre-Wash Scalp Treatment (Best for Scalp Health & Hair Growth Support)

💡 Great for: Dry scalp, dandruff, oily scalp balance, hair loss prevention

A pre-wash treatment helps to hydrate the scalp, clear buildup, and improve circulation, which may encourage hair growth.

How to use:

  • Warm a few drops of jojoba oil (since it mimics natural scalp oils).
  • Massage it directly into the scalp for 5-10 minutes using your fingertips.
  • Leave it on for 30 minutes to overnight for deeper hydration.
  • Wash it out with a gentle shampoo.

🔹 Why jojoba oil? Since it’s similar to scalp oil, it absorbs well and helps with dryness, oil balance, and scalp irritation.

🔹 Why argan oil? It works better for nourishing a dry scalp, but use it lightly—too much can feel heavy.

2. Leave-In Conditioner (Best for Dry, Frizzy, or Damaged Hair)

💡 Great for: Dry, brittle, curly, or color-treated hair

Using natural oils as a leave-in treatment can lock in moisture, smooth frizz, and protect hair from dryness.

How to use:

  • After washing your hair, towel-dry it until it’s damp.
  • Take 1-2 drops of argan oil, rub it between your palms, and distribute it through the mid-lengths and ends.
  • Avoid the roots to prevent oil buildup.
  • Let your hair air-dry or style as usual.

🔹 Why argan oil? It’s deeply moisturizing and adds shine while protecting hair from damage.

🔹 Why not jojoba oil? It’s lighter and better suited for the scalp rather than the ends of the hair.

3. Frizz Control & Styling (Best for Smoothing & Shine)

💡 Great for: Taming flyaways, adding shine, protecting against heat damage

A few drops of oil can work wonders for frizz and styling, especially for curly or thick hair.

How to use:

  • Rub 1-2 drops of argan oil between your hands.
  • Smooth it over dry or styled hair, focusing on frizzy areas.
  • For heat protection, apply before using hot tools.

🔹 Why argan oil? Its rich fatty acids coat the hair shaft, preventing frizz and shielding against heat styling damage.

🔹 Why not jojoba oil? It’s too light for frizz control but can work as a light finishing touch.

4. Mixing with Shampoo or Conditioner (Best for Everyday Moisture Boost)

💡 Great for: Daily hydration, maintaining soft and healthy hair

If you want an easy way to incorporate oils into your routine without extra steps, mix them into your shampoo or conditioner.

How to use:

  • Add 2-3 drops of jojoba or argan oil to a quarter-sized amount of shampoo or conditioner.
  • Mix it in your palm and apply as usual.
  • Rinse thoroughly.

🔹 Why jojoba oil? Works well in shampoo since it cleanses without making hair greasy.

🔹 Why argan oil? Better mixed with conditioner to boost moisture for dry or damaged hair.

Final Tips for Best Results

Start with a small amount—a little oil goes a long way!
Use jojoba oil mainly for scalp health and argan oil for hair hydration and frizz control.
Be consistent—natural oils work best when used regularly over time.

By using these oils correctly, you’ll get softer, stronger, and healthier hair—without greasiness or buildup.

Can You Mix Jojoba Oil with Argan Oil?

Absolutely! Jojoba oil and argan oil can be mixed together to create a well-balanced blend that moisturizes, strengthens, and protects hair without feeling too heavy. Since they each have unique benefits, combining them enhances their effects, making them even more versatile.

What Happens When You Combine Both Oils?

Mixing jojoba oil and argan oil gives you the best of both worlds:

  • Jojoba oil – Lightweight and fast-absorbing, it balances scalp oil production and prevents buildup.
  • Argan oil – Rich and deeply nourishing, it smooths frizz, hydrates dry hair, and protects against damage.
  • The perfect balance – Jojoba prevents argan oil from feeling too heavy, making the blend more versatile for daily use.

Together, these oils create a customized treatment that works for both the scalp and hair strands, making them more effective than using either oil alone.

Who Benefits the Most from a Jojoba-Argan Oil Blend?

People with combination hair (oily scalp + dry ends) – Jojoba oil keeps the scalp balanced, while argan oil hydrates dry ends.
Those with frizz-prone or curly hair – The mix moisturizes, defines curls, and smooths flyaways without making hair greasy.
Anyone looking for a lightweight hair serum – The blend is lighter than pure argan oil, making it perfect for daily moisture.
People who use heat styling tools – Argan oil protects against heat damage, while jojoba oil prevents scalp dryness from blow-drying or straightening.
Sensitive scalps or mild dryness – Jojoba oil can soothe irritation and regulate oil production, while argan oil provides extra moisture.

Not ideal for severe dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis (SB)Argan oil is high in oleic acid, which may feed Malassezia yeast, a common cause of dandruff. If you have chronic scalp flaking, stick to jojoba oil or use it alongside an anti-dandruff treatment.

How to Mix & Use Jojoba + Argan Oil

You can mix these oils in equal parts or adjust the ratio based on your hair’s needs:

  • For scalp care → Use more jojoba oil (70% jojoba, 30% argan).
  • For deep conditioning → Use more argan oil (70% argan, 30% jojoba).
  • For daily hydration → Use a 50/50 blend, applying a few drops to damp or dry hair.

Simply mix them in a small dropper bottle, shake well, and apply as needed. This DIY blend is an easy way to nourish your hair and scalp—without the heaviness of traditional hair oils!

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

When it comes to jojoba oil vs. argan oil, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Both oils offer unique benefits—jojoba oil is ideal for balancing and soothing the scalp, while argan oil excels at moisturizing and protecting hair strands.

The best approach? Experiment and listen to your hair. Try each oil separately, or mix them to create a blend that suits your specific needs. Your hair’s texture, scalp condition, and personal preferences will guide you toward the perfect routine.

Whether you’re aiming for stronger roots, smoother strands, or a healthier scalp, both oils are powerful allies in your hair care arsenal. Start small, be consistent, and enjoy discovering what works best for your hair!

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Petra Nakashian (previously Kravos) is a dedicated natural health and beauty blogger, driven by the loss of her parents to cancer, which led her to meticulously research beauty product ingredients. With over 10 years of experience, her in-depth knowledge has made her a trusted expert in the field. Founder of Be Healthy Now and Green Beauty Talk, Petra recently expanded her expertise with Beauty Insights Hub, exploring a wider range of beauty treatments. Committed to transparency and honesty, her work is a vital resource for navigating the complex world of beauty.

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