Hair Care Oils Comparison: Argan Oil Vs. Castor Oil

The hunt for a perfect hair oil is not easy. The more you search the more confused you will become. Isn’t it? With thousands of oils available around us, figuring out which one is the best will make you pull your hair more. So, leaving all oils behind, we bring the most searched comparison of the two precious hair oils – Argan vs. Castor to help you come to a conclusion.

Hair and Hair Oils

Indians and hair oils have a deep-rooted connection. From when a child is born until its hair turns gray, a hair oil routine is a must and for that, a variety of oils are used. While some opt for simple coconut oil, some mix and match multiple oils, whereas others infuse it with some herbs and prepare their oil. In short, the battle among hair oils keeps going and there are two such oils that are giving the toughest competition for hair care among all and they are – Argan and Castor oil.

Argan and Castor are the most talked about hair oils in hair care because both are like nectar for hair. Our hair needs hair oil for various reasons like moisturization to prevent dryness, which can lead to issues like dandruff, itching, flakiness, breakage, and split ends; strengthening; natural shine and luster; to control frizz; for scalp health; to promote hair growth by improving blood circulation to the scalp and providing essential nutrients to the hair follicles; to act as a protective barrier against environmental damage, such as UV rays and pollution, which can weaken and damage the hair; and for relaxation and stress relief.

Both oils Argan and Castor have a lot to offer and are very similar but, the question of which is better for your hair care is necessary. We have the answer too but before heading over to the battle, let’s understand both oils in detail first to know what they are considered to be the best hair oils.

Argan Oil

Often referred to as “liquid gold”, argan shines among other hair oils due to its rich color and numerous properties. Extracted from the kernels of the argan tree, which is native to Morocco, Argan oil is a centuries-old treasure for hair care. Also used in the traditional Moroccan cuisine, Argan started becoming popular for its commendable contribution to the nourishment of hair. The chemical composition of argan oil includes essential nutrients, antioxidants, vitamin E, oleic acid, and linoleic acid, which are all powerful moisturizers and antioxidants.

Castor Oil

Castor oil is known for its miraculous healing properties and is another golden treasure that can help you with all kinds of health issues starting from head to toe. Derived from the seeds of the castor bean plant (Ricinus communis), it is one such natural oil that is composed of 90% ricinoleic acid – a monounsaturated fatty acid. Several therapeutic properties of the oil stem from this compound, including hair growth and anti-inflammation.

Other than that, castor also contains several fatty acids such as Oleic acid – a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid that contributes to the oil’s moisturizing properties, Linoleic acid – a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory properties, Stearic acid – a saturated fatty acid that contributes to the oil’s thick and viscous texture, Palmitic acid – another saturated fatty acid responsible for oil’s texture, Vitamin E – which has antioxidant properties and can help protect the skin and hair from oxidative damage.

Argan vs. Castor: Comparing the Benefits

While castor oil and argan oil offer similar benefits to hair, their slightly different properties make them appropriate for different types and concerns of hair. Comparing argan oil and castor oil for hair, here is what they have to offer.

Argan Oil Benefits for Hair

Moisturization –

Argan oil hydrates both hair and scalp because of its rich fatty acids and vitamin E content. It locks the moisture on the scalp, thereby reducing dryness and preventing hair from becoming brittle.

Heat Protection –

The fatty acids in argan oil create a protective barrier on the hair shaft, which can shield your hair from damage caused by heat-styling tools such as flat irons and blow dryers.

Shine and Manageability –

Argan oil adds a natural shine to your hair, making it look healthier and more vibrant. It also helps in reducing flyaways and frizz, making your hair more manageable.

Scalp Health –

Argan oil has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe and moisturize the scalp. It can be beneficial for those with dandruff issues or scalp irritation.

Castor Oil Benefits for Hair

Hair Strength –

Castor oil is known for its high content of ricinoleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid that helps strengthen hair and prevent breakage, promoting overall hair health.

Hair Shine –

Similar to argan oil, castor oil also adds shine to your hair, making it look healthier and more lustrous.

Scalp Health –

Castor oil’s antibacterial properties are proven to be beneficial for maintaining a healthy scalp and reducing dryness and inflammation.

Hair Growth (Anecdotal) –

Massaging regularly with slightly warm castor oil can stimulate blood flow to the scalp and reduce inflammation, potentially aiding in hair growth.

Considerations

Allergies –

Since argan oil is derived from the seed of the argan tree, the chances of tree nut allergies are higher in it than in the castor. So test before use.

Hair Type –

Castor oil has a thick consistency, which may not be suitable for those with fine hair. It can be mixed with thinner oils like coconut oil to make it more manageable.

Hair Goals –

Your choice between argan oil and castor oil should depend on your specific hair type and goals. If you’re primarily looking to protect your hair from styling damage or add moisture, both oils can be effective. If you’re concerned about hair growth, castor oil is often associated with this benefit, although scientific evidence is limited.

The Verdict

Argan and castor both serve their purpose well on hair and hence there is no one better than the other. However, castor has some upper hand compared to argan oil because argan works well on more skin infections like eczema, cellulitis, erysipelas, impetigo, folliculitis, furuncles, and carbuncles, while castor is good for hair thinning issues. Some even massage their hair by mixing argan and castor to make the most use of both oils.

In short, the ultimate decision of choosing between both hair oils should depend on your hair type, issues, convenience, and budget because argan is a bit expensive compared to castor.

Always remember, no matter what hair oil you choose, don’t forget to buy it from a reliable source, and perform a patch test before applying it to get the best results.

If castor is your choice then look no further, Ambuja Solvex is the best manufacturer of pure castor oil for hair.