Does Argan Oil Benefit Lips? Facts and Myths

Argan oil is one of the most popular products in skin and hair care, but does it really work on lips? You will find plenty of information on the internet – sometimes contradictory – about this "golden nectar". Some claim it's a miracle for chapped lips, others warn that it clogs pores and worsens skin condition. Which view is true? In this article, we will separate facts from myths and explain how argan oil really affects lips, when to use it, and when it may not be the best choice.

What is argan oil and where does it come from?

Before we move on to whether it works on lips, it's worth understanding exactly what argan oil is and why it is so valued. Argan oil is also called 'liquid gold of Morocco' and 'liquid gold' because of its wonderful properties and high value.

Argan oil comes from the seeds of the argan tree, a tree that grows exclusively in southwestern Morocco. This tree is literally adapted to extreme desert conditions – it can survive without water for years. Its seeds contain a concentrate of valuable ingredients that have been used for centuries by the Berbers to care for skin and hair, and its effects are appreciated in both traditional and modern cosmetics.

The traditional production process of oil is a fascinating thing – women manually collect the fruit, shell the seeds and cold press them to preserve all valuable ingredients. It is worth noting that cosmetic argan oil is pressed from unroasted seeds, which affects its light color and delicate aroma. This is precisely why cold-pressed oil is much more valuable than that produced by chemical methods.

Pure argan oil as a natural cosmetic is valued for its wonderful properties and broad care action – it moisturizes, regenerates and protects both skin and hair.

The argan oil production process

The process of producing argan oil is a true art form that requires time, precision and traditional skills passed down from generation to generation. It all starts with the seeds of the argan tree, which grows exclusively in southwestern Morocco. Harvesting argan fruit is the first step – then from the pulp the hard nuts are extracted, which are manually cracked to get to the valuable seeds.

The next stage is pressing – and here the key difference appears. Natural argan oil cold-pressed is produced without the use of high temperature, thanks to which it retains the maximum of unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E and other nutrients. It is this method that makes argan oil so valued in daily skin and hair care. In contrast, heat-pressed oil, with a distinctive nutty flavor, more often goes to the kitchen as cooking oil.

The manual, traditional production process makes natural argan oil not only unique but also rare – hence its higher price and limited availability. However, it is precisely because of this that it retains its wonderful properties: it deeply moisturizes, regenerates and protects skin and hair, supports the treatment of skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis, and also shows strong antibacterial properties.

Regular use of argan oil in caring for face, body and hair is a guarantee of adequate moisturization, elasticity and healthy appearance. The broad application of argan oil makes it an indispensable element of daily skin and hair care – both for those who appreciate natural cosmetics and those looking for effective solutions in treating skin diseases.

Composition and properties of argan oil – Why is it so unique?

Cold-pressed argan oil contains:

• Vitamin E – a powerful antioxidant that protects against free radicals
  
  
• Fatty acids – including oleic and linoleic acid, which deeply moisturize
  
  
• Plant sterols – support skin regeneration
  
  
• Polyphenols – natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
  
  
• Squalane – an ingredient very similar to the natural sebum of our skin

This combination makes argan oil work both nutritively and protectively. Thanks to its rich composition, the properties of argan oil include a wide range of applications – it is a natural cosmetic that works well in skin and hair care and supports health.

Facts: Argan oil and lips – what really works?

Let's move on to specifics. The use of argan oil is very broad – it also includes lip care. What lip problems can argan oil really help with?

Fact 1: Deep moisturization

This is absolutely true – argan oil beautifully moisturizes lips. The fatty acids in its composition penetrate deeply into the skin and create a protective layer that prevents water loss. If you have chapped, dry lips, especially in winter, argan oil will be a blessing for them.

Many people who have used argan oil on their lips report a noticeable improvement within a few days of application. Regular use of argan oil supports moisturization, which is key to healthy lips.

Fact 2: Reduction of inflammation and irritation

The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of argan oil are scientifically proven. If your lips are irritated, red, or you have problems with minor inflammation, oil can really help in soothing and regeneration. The polyphenols in argan oil work antibacterially, which is especially important if your lips are scratched or cracked.

Fact 3: Antioxidant protection against aging

Vitamin E and other antioxidants in argan oil protect lips from free radicals that accelerate skin aging. If you use argan oil regularly, you can expect your lips to be less prone to wrinkles and look younger, because this oil effectively helps in fighting signs of lip aging.

Fact 4: Regeneration after treatment or sun exposure

If your lips have been exposed to sun, wind or you had a treatment (e.g. permanent makeup), argan oil is an excellent support for regeneration. Its regenerative properties accelerate healing and reduce discomfort.

Myths: What is not true?

Now let's move on to what are myths and what you shouldn't worry about.

Myth 1: "Argan oil clogs pores on lips"

This is a myth. Lips have practically no pores in the traditional sense – the skin on the lips is thin and has a different structure than the skin on the face. Argan oil doesn't clog pores because they simply aren't there. Moreover, the oil is easy to spread and quickly absorbs, leaving no sticky layer on the lips (if you don't apply too much).

Myth 2: "Argan oil worsens lips for people prone to acne"

This is partly a myth. Argan oil does not contain comedogenic ingredients that would worsen acne. In fact, its antibacterial properties can actually support healthier skin. However, if you have very oily skin or tend to have breakouts around your lips, it's worth testing the oil on a small area first to make sure your skin tolerates it.

Myth 3: "Argan oil can replace all other lip care products"

This is a myth. Argan oil is a phenomenal product, but it is not a universal solution for every situation. If you need sun protection, it's better to choose a lip balm with UV filter. If you want intensive moisturization in extremely dry conditions, a water and oil-based balm sometimes works better. Argan oil complements other products beautifully and works great with other care ingredients, but should not be the only one in your routine.

Myth 4: "All argan oils work the same way"

This is a myth. The quality of argan oil varies greatly. Cold-pressed argan oil with an organic certificate will have completely different properties than oil produced by chemical methods or oil diluted with other substances. When buying argan oil, always pay attention to descriptions: "cold-pressed", "organic", "100% pure" – this significantly affects its effectiveness.

How to apply argan oil to lips – Practical guide

Now that you know what works and what doesn't – let's move on to the specific application. For lip care, just apply a small amount of argan oil to achieve optimal results.

If you want it quick and simple – just a few drops of argan oil applied morning and evening. Argan oil also works perfectly in daily facial care, helping maintain healthy and radiant skin. Soak your finger in the oil and gently massage it into your lips with massaging motions. The oil quickly absorbs and leaves no sticky layer. This is an ideal solution for daily moisturization.

In the evening, just before bed, you can apply more argan oil and leave it on overnight. During this time, the oil will work deeply and regenerate your lips. In the morning, your lips will be soft, moisturized and ready for makeup.

Argan oil-based mask

For an intensive treatment, combine argan oil with other natural ingredients:

• Honey mask: 1 teaspoon of argan oil + 1 teaspoon of raw honey. Apply for 10-15 minutes.
  
  
• Sugar mask: 1 teaspoon of oil + 1 teaspoon of brown sugar. Use as a gentle scrub (once a week).
  
  
• Avocado mask: 1/2 mashed avocado + a few drops of oil. Apply for 15 minutes for deep regeneration.

These home masks are much cheaper than expensive treatments, and the results are surprising.

Combination with other products

Argan oil combines beautifully with other products:

• Apply it under lip balm – it will strengthen moisturization
  
  
• Add a few drops to your favorite lip stick – you will enrich it with natural ingredients
  
  
• Use it before lipstick – lips will be softer and makeup will apply better
  
  
• Combine with gloss – you will enhance the shine effect

For whom is argan oil ideal?

• Dry lips – argan oil works perfectly for dry lip care
  
  
• Chapped lips in winter – the oil will help you
  
  
• Irritated or scratched lips – its regenerative properties will support healing
  
  
• Lips after treatment – an option for regeneration
  
  
• Natural enthusiasts – if you prefer natural cosmetics, argan oil is a must-have

When to be careful:

• Very oily skin – before using it regularly, test by introducing argan oil gradually into your routine.
  
  
• Allergy to argan oil – rare, but possible (allergens are mainly cell components)
  
  
• Tendency to breakouts – start with small amounts
  
  
• Need for UV protection – argan oil does not contain sunscreens, so on sunny days it's better to choose a balm with SPF

Argan oil vs. other lip products

How does argan oil compare to the competition?

Argan oil vs. lip balm:

• Oil – deep moisturization, natural ingredients, no preservatives, requires more frequent application
• Balm – quick protection, easier application, contains binders, long-lasting protection

Argan oil vs. lip pomade:

• Oil – natural, regenerative, no dyes
• Pomade – optical lip enlargement, shine, sometimes drying

Argan oil vs. other natural oils:

• Argan oil – universal, contains more vitamin E, better aroma
  
  
• Coconut oil – more moisturizing, but can be comedogenic
  
  
• Jojoba oil – lightest, but less nourishing
  
  
• Sweet almond oil – great, but less available

Argan oil is rather a "golden mean" – it combines the best properties and is available everywhere.

How to choose good argan oil?

Since quality matters, here are practical tips:

Look for this:

• 100% pure argan oil – the label should make it clear that it's unmixed oil
  
  
• Cold-pressed – cold pressed is a guarantee of ingredient preservation
  
  
• Organic certificate – means no pesticides and traditional production
  
  
• Dark bottle – glass protects against UV and oxidation
  
  
• Small amount (30-50 ml) – freshness counts

Avoid this:

• Oils in plastic bottles – plastic reacts with the oil
  
  
• Very cheap products – many lack purity
  
  
• Oils without information about origin – may be artificial or diluted

Summary – Facts worth remembering

Argan oil really does work on lips – but in a specific, predictable way:

✅ Deeply moisturizes lips
✅ Supports regeneration and healing
✅ Protects against aging
✅ Soothes irritation and inflammation
✅ Is natural and safe for most people

❌ Does not clog pores (they simply aren't there)
❌ Not a universal solution for everyone
❌ Does not replace UV protection
❌ Not all argan oils are the same

If you have dry, chapped or irritated lips – especially in winter – argan oil is an excellent choice. It's worth having it in your cosmetics bag and including it in your care routine. Regular use of argan oil helps achieve healthy-looking lips. Remember, however, that every skin is different, and what works for one person may work differently for another. Always start by testing on a small area, and if you're happy – introduce it regularly into your routine.