Argan oils have become a popular hydrating ingredient in many skincare products, but the multi-purpose oil has far more under-the-radar beauty benefits to offer than you may think. Argan oil is derived from the nut of the fruit on the argan tree and is chock full of all-natural anti-aging ingredients including vitamin E and plumping fatty acids that can benefit your beauty routine in a variety of different ways, from improving elasticity to soothing irritation from harsher exfoliants or retinol. Basically, it’s one of the best multifunctional hydrators that’s not to be overlooked.

While many moisturizers, serums, and other skincare products are often infused with argan (along with other beneficial actives and humectants), using it alone, or applied as the final step of your skincare lineup is also a great way to smooth and prep the skin for makeup. Because argan oil is considered a dry oil (meaning that it absorbs quickly and dries to down to a velvety finish rather than sitting directly on top of the skin) it makes for a great primer that won’t leave your skin feeling greasy or slick—even for those with oily and combination skin. Personally, I love to add a few drops to my matte foundation to give my base a more skin-like glow, that’s neither too oily nor too cakey.

But that’s not all—argan oil is also a miracle worker for your hair too. Not only does it help repair split ends and breakage from bleaching and abusing heat styling tools, but it also doubles as a heat protectant to shield and protect your strands from future damage before you go in with your favorite flat iron. You can even apply a few drops to dry hair in between shampoo days to reduce frizz and enhance shine. Convinced that you need to add some argan oil to your beauty shelf? We thought so. Ahead, check out our favorite formulas to try for yourself.

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