Argan oil is derived from argan tree fruits that originate from Morocco and has been used as a beauty secret as early as 1550 BC. Argan oil has been widely used to treat skin conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, scalp psoriasis, and dandruff. As the oil has antibacterial and anti-sebum properties, it’s often used as an active ingredient in anti-dandruff shampoos.
Not only does argan oil destroy fungi on the scalp, it also provides a lot of nutrients and antioxidants to affected areas. The essential fatty acids help to soothe inflamed areas of the scalp and aids in moisturizing the skin.
Using an argan oil shampoo is an effective and 100% natural method of getting rid of dandruff. After having tested a wide variety of shampoos, I have created a list of the 10 best argan oil shampoos for dandruff.
How Are Argan Oil Shampoos Effective Against Dandruff?
Argan oil shampoos are highly effective against dandruff due to the fact that they have antifungal, antibacterial and anti-sebum properties. In addition to that, they usually contain a blend of other natural ingredients and essential oils that work well in combination with argan oil.
It’s Antibacterial
One of the benefits that argan oil has is its antibacterial properties [1]. When argan oil comes into contact with your scalp, it cleanses your hair follicles and also helps with unclogging your follicles. Argan oil also contains antimicrobial agents, which inhibits and kills microorganisms and bacteria. It protects your scalp from any bacterial infections.
It’s Anti-Sebum
A recent study has found that argan oil has anti-sebum properties [2]. Applying argan oil shampoo on your scalp shows to have some anti-sebum activity. This is very effective against dandruff.
Malassezia is a yeast-like fungus on your scalp. The natural oils that are produced by your seborrheic glands underneath the skin layer reacts with Malassezia and creates a by-product called oleic acid, which some people have an allergic reaction to. This causes dandruff in many people and as a consequence leaves dry, red, inflamed and scaly patches on the scalp.
The anti-sebum properties therefore help glands to regulate the natural oil production on your scalp, therefore minimizing dandruff. The less sebum there is your scalp, the less Malassezia can react with it to create oleic acid. Therefore, argan oil shampoos are great for treating dandruff.
It Has Antioxidants
Argan oil contains antioxidants, which help in healing dry skin and regulating skin cell renewal. [3]. Additionally, antioxidants can regulate collagen production and also protects the skin from damage.
Dandruff is often associated with dry and irritated skin. Antioxidants have powerful anti-inflammatory effects and soothe infected areas of the scalp. They are also effective against dry and cracked skin that dandruff often causes.
It Has Other Ingredients
It should be of no surprise that argan oil shampoos contain mainly argan oil. Apart from that, they usually also contain many other essential natural ingredients.
Common ingredients of argan oil shampoos include, coconut oil, jojoba oil, almond oil,
Argan Oil Shampoo Reviews
I’ve tested countless of Argan oil shampoos over the past years in search to find the most effective ones. Many of them are great, but only some of them stand out.
Below is a list of the 10 best Argan oil shampoos for getting rid of dandruff.
1. Maple Holistics Pure Argan Oil Shampoo
Maple Holistics Pure Argan Oil Shampoo is one of the most popular and effective shampoos on the market and comes in an 8 ounce (237 ml) or 16 ounce (473 ml) bottle.
It contains many natural ingredients that help to get rid of dandruff. Besides the main ingredient argan oil, this shampoo also contains camellia seed oil, avocado oil, peach kernel oil, jojoba oil and almond oil. These ingredients have antifungal and antibacterial properties, meaning that they will inhibit fungal growth on your scalp.
Most anti-dandruff shampoos contain harsh chemicals that leave your scalp dry and brittle. The natural oils in this shampoo nourish your scalp and hair. Especially argan oil, as it’s known for its moisturizing effect. Additionally, Maple Holistics Pure Argan Oil Shampoo contains vitamin A, B1, B2, D and E, feeding your scalp all the nutrients it needs to remain healthy. It’s also noteworthy that it’s 100% sulfate and paraben-free and made in the USA.
Since this shampoo contains no artificial colors or additives, it doesn’t irritate your skin. In fact, it will have a very soothing effect on your scalp due to all the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. You will feel that your scalp will be moisturized and hydrated.
Apart from having a pleasant scent, this shampoo also leaves your hair silky and shiny. To date, Maple Holistics Pure Argan Oil Shampoo is one of the best argan oil shampoo for dandruff on the market.
What’s Great:
- Contains Many Other Essential Oils
- Sulfate and Paraben-Free
- Contains Vitamins, Minerals & Antioxidant
- No Artificial Colors and Additives
- Long Lasting and Pleasant Smell
What’s Not So Great:
- Marketed as a Premium Product
- Slightly Thin Consistency
2. Buena Skin Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo
Buena Skin Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo is another great shampoo that features many natural and organic ingredients that relieve dryness and flaking caused by dandruff. It comes in a 16 ounce (473 ml) bottle and is manufactured in an FDA certified facility in the United States.
Additionally, Buena Skin advertises this product to be sulfate-free and it’s suitable for all hair types. In this case, you can even use this for dandruff if you have colored hair. This argan oil shampoo contains a blend of other essential oils such as avocado oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, almond oil camellia seed oil.
The mixture of these natural ingredients create an effective shampoo that feeds your scalp with much needed vitamins, carotene, antioxidants and essential fatty acids. After having personally used this shampoo, I feel that it also soothes inflamed areas of your scalp causing it to be less itchy. The coconut and jojoba oil also act as a natural moisturizer ensuring that your scalp isn’t dry and flaky, while making your hair look voluminous at the same time.
Overall, the Buena Skin Argan Oil Shampoo is a great way to get rid of dandruff. The antifungal and antibacterial properties of the natural ingredients help to reduce dandruff, while giving your scalp countless other health benefits.
What’s Great:
- Contains Many Other Essential Oils
- Contains Vitamins, Minerals & Antioxidant
- Works on All Types of Hair
- Relieves Scalp Inflammation
What’s Not So Great:
- Heavy Perfume Smell
3. Art Naturals Organic Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo
Art Naturals Organic Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo is an all natural shampoo for all hair types and comes in a 16 ounce (473 ml) bottle. The manufacturer guarantees that all of its products are cruelty, paraben and sulfate-free.
The argan oil in this shampoo will moisturize your scalp and hair and remove dandruff as it balanced the sebum-production. The shampoo contains a wide variety of essential oils and natural ingredients that each benefit you scalp and help your treat dandruff. Apart from argan oil, these natural ingredients include jojoba oil, camellia seed oil, almond oil, peach kernel oil, avocado oil, and coconut extract.
The jojoba oil in Art Naturals Organic Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo features high amounts of vitamin E and B, which are vital to scalp blood circulation and health. The soothing effects of the coconut extract and aloe vera also add to its benefits.
While treating dandruff, the peach, avocado and almond oil will revitalize your hair and scalp and provide it with the required nutrients and moisture. All in all, a great choice!
What’s Great:
- It’s Cruelty, Paraben and Sulfate-Free
- The shampoo contains many Other Essential Oils that have various health benefits
- It also Moisturizes and Soothes Scalp
- Vitamins and Antioxidants ensure your scalp will well protected
What’s Not So Great:
- Even though it moisturizes hair, it may be better to use a conditioner as it sometimes can leave your hair dry
4. Pure Nature Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo & Conditioner
Pure Nature Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo & Conditioner is an organic set of nourishing shampoo and a repairing conditioner. Each bottle is 16.9 ounces (500 ml) meaning that you will get a 33.8 ounces (1 liter) worth of product.
It contains no sulfates, parabens, sodium chloride, gluten or phthalates. Even though shampoos with sulfates tend to foam and lather more easily, they can be harmful to your scalp. Especially when you are having dandruff, harsh chemicals can leave your scalp extremely dry and itchy.
The main ingredient argan oil is blended with ingredients that are rich in proteins, keratin, antioxidants, and vitamins that supply your damaged scalp with required nutrients. It also helps to soothe the inflamed areas of dandruff and ensures that your scalp is well protected.
The vitamin E in Pure Nature’s shampoo promotes proper blood circulation to your scalp making it healthier and ensuring better dandruff control. The conditioner has a great moisturizing formula that prevents your scalp from dryness after using the argan oil shampoo.
What’s Great:
- Contains no harsh chemicals
- Contains vitamins, antioxidants, proteins and keratin
- Comes as a shampoo and conditioner set
What’s Not So Great:
- To be used with conditioner to avoid dry scalp and hair
5. Baebody Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo
Baebody Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo is a natural sulfate-free shampoo that is gentle on the scalp. It comes in 16 ounce (473 ml) bottle with a pump, making it easy to extract the product.
The shampoo contains a natural blend of herbal oils and ingredients that are scalp-friendly and effective against dandruff. Besides the main ingredient which is Moroccan argan oil, it contains jojoba oil, avocado oil, almond oil, coconut oil and keratin.
This organic blend has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, making it an effective product against dandruff. While inhibiting fungal dandruff growth and killing off fungal cells, it also soothes inflamed areas of your scalp. It also restores damaged hair and skin cells, which providing appropriate nutrients and moisture to your scalp.
Noteworthy is also that this argan oil shampoo works for all types of hair and skin conditions, as it’s extremely gentle on the skin. It also gets rid of free radicals.
Baebody is 100% cruelty-free, is not tested on animals and is manufactured in the United States. If at anytime you are unhappy you can request a complete refund with no questions asked. I’ve never had to ask for one, as I was pleased with the shampoo.
What’s Great:
- 100% cruelty-free
- Contains natural ingredients
- Made in USA
What’s Not So Great:
- Can leave your hair slightly dry after using shampoo
6. Aprilis Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo & Conditioner
Aprilis Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo & Conditioner has received many great reviews for its effectiveness against dry scalp and dandruff. It’s a practical product as it comes with a shampoo and a conditioner. Each of the bottles is 16 ounces (473 ml), making the entire 2-in-1 set 32 ounces (946 ml).
The shampoo contains many natural ingredients such as argan oil, castor oil, jojoba oil, rosa rugosa oil and many others. These oils have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties which are effective against dandruff. The oils soothe inflamed areas of skin reducing the itching sensation and the redness. Additionally, the fungicides ensure that dandruff is not only destroyed but also inhibited from spreading further.
The conditioner also contains many natural ingredients such as ginkgo biloba root extract, camellia sinensis extract, rosa rugosa flower oil, jojoba oil and many others. These ingredients help to restore moisture to your damaged scalp and hair. In addition to that, they also provide your damaged scalp with nutrients and a protective barrier.
Overall, Aprilis Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo & Conditioner is a great set to treat dandruff.
What’s Great:
- Comes in a twin pack
- Natural oils give the shampoo a soothing effect
- Has an aromatic smell
What’s Not So Great:
- You may run out of the shampoo faster than the conditioner
7. Essential Oil Labs Argan Oil Shampoo
Essential Oil Labs Argan Oil Shampoo is an organic and natural shampoo. It’s made in the United States with 100% natural and organic ingredients and comes in a standard 16 ounce (473 ml) bottle.
The main ingredient, as for all of the shampoos in this list, is organic Moroccan argan oil. Argan oil has anti-sebum properties that ensure your scalp is not overwhelmed with oleic acid, and in turn, should clear your dandruff.
Other ingredients include avocado oil, jojoba oil, camellia seed oil, almond oil, coconut oil, and keratin. These ingredients are also 100% organic, sourced sustainably, and are free of chemicals and additives. The essential oils found in this shampoo restore, nourish and moisturize your scalp. This will help to get rid of dandruff and also soothe any inflammation on your scalp.
Astonishingly, this shampoo is sulfate-free however it lathers very well. This makes it easy for the shampoo to cover your entire scalp and hair. It also has a very fresh scent, which can be overpowering for people with sensitive noses. Overall, a great natural argan oil shampoo for dandruff.
What’s Great:
- Sulfate-free shampoo
- 100% organic
- It lathers extremely well
What’s Not So Great:
- It has an overpowering scent
8. First Botany Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo
First Botany Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo contains 100% pure Moroccan argan oil and other natural ingredients that are effective against dandruff. It comes in a 16 ounce bottle and is made in the USA.
First Botany has developed a therapeutic formula that is based on argan oil, vitamin E, carotene and essential fatty acids. The argan oil regulates sebum on your scalp and unclogs hair follicles. This shampoo also contains essential fatty acids which are avocado oil, jojoba oil, camellia seed oil, coconut oil and almond oil.
These oils ensure that your scalp is constantly moisturized and fed with the required nutrients to keep your scalp dandruff-free. You will also notice that red and inflamed areas of your scalp will be less irritated.
Even though this shampoo lathers very well upon application onto the scalp, it’s 100% sulfate-free. I also found that like most of the First Botany products, this shampoo had a very natural and fresh scent that lasts even after rinsing and drying your hair.
Although the price point of this shampoo may be a little higher than some of its competitors, it works well against dandruff. If you’re on a budget, you may want to explore a more affordable option.
What’s Great:
- Contains many natural ingredients
- Made in USA
- Contains no sulfate
What’s Not So Great:
- Steep pricing compared to its competition
9. Agadir Argan Oil Daily Shampoo & Conditioner
Agadir Argan Oil Daily Shampoo & Conditioner is a treatment set that contains one 12.4 ounce (360 ml) bottle of shampoo and one 12.4 ounce (360 ml) bottle of conditioner. The set is available as a 1-pack or a 3-pack set
The shampoo bottle is paraben and sulfate-free but still lathers fairly well on your scalp and hair. It can be used on all hair types including colored hair. It also contains other ingredients besides organic Moroccan argan oil, such as Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Benzyl Salicylate, Glycol Distearate, Tocopheryl, Sodium Lauryl Sarcosinate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Propylene Glycol and a few others.
After using this shampoo you will feel that your scalp feels moisturized and less irritated. The shampoo also leaves your hair soft with a pleasantly refreshing scent that lingers even after you have dried your hair.
The conditioner will moisturize your scalp and hair preventing a dry scalp. This is also great for dandruff as the flakes will be washed off and a moisturizing layer will cover the scalp. The conditioner is not to be left in the hair but should be rinsed off after several minutes. It also has a very pleasant exotic floral scent that is natural and refreshing.
What’s Great:
- Great 2-in-1 set of shampoo & conditioner
- Leaves hair soft and smelling great
- Has a pleasant floral scent
What’s Not So Great:
- Contains some other ingredients
10. Brooklyn Botany Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo
Brooklyn Botany Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo is made of a sulfate-free formula that contains 100% natural and organic ingredients. It’s available in a 16 ounce (473 ml) bottle and is made in the United States.
The main ingredient is Moroccan argan oil. It’s mixed together with a natural blend of other essential oils such as avocado, jojoba camellia seed coconut and almond. These oils help fight dandruff by destroying the cell walls of the yeast-like fungus. Additionally, they also help to inhibit further growth of dandruff.
Brooklyn Botany manufactures all of their products in GMP and FDA certified facilities, ensuring the highest quality standards. All products, including this one are cruelty free and have not been tested on animals.
This shampoo is a great natural alternative for getting rid of dandruff, due to the organic blend of essential oils. Another great benefit of using this shampoo is that it cleans your the hair follicles and supplies your scalp with important nutrients to keep it healthy and dandruff-free
What’s Great:
- It’s GMP and FDA certified
- Not tested on animals and is 100% cruelty-free
- Large bottle size
What’s Not So Great:
- Can leave your hair and scalp slightly dry after using
How to Use an Argan Oil Shampoo
Using Argan oil shampoo is incredibly easy. In fact, you would go about it the same way like a regular anti-dandruff shampoo. To make it simpler for you, I have outlined the main steps for you below that you can easily follow.
- Lightly rinse your hair and scalp and make sure that they are moist
- Pour the Argan oil shampoo into your hand and apply it onto your scalp
- Gently lather and ensure that your entire scalp is covered
- Massage your scalp for a good 3 – 5 minutes
- Rinse your scalp with water and ensure that the shampoo is removed completely
- Apply argan oil conditioner and remove it with water (optional)
- Gently dry your scalp and hair! That’s it!
Conclusion
Argan oil shampoos have gained in popularity over the years, due to its effectiveness in treating scalp conditions like dandruff. Their antibacterial and anti-sebum properties ensure that your dandruff is kept at bay while it reduces the itching.
Another great thing about Argan oil shampoo is that it usually contains other types of organic ingredients such as other natural oils.
In my experience, the most effective argan oil shampoo is Maple Holistics Pure Argan Oil Shampoo. I’ve been using it or a couple of years and the results are amazing. I use this shampoo occasionally with my regular shampoo routine.
If you have sensitive skin and enjoy the soothing effect on your scalp, you should consider using argan oil shampoo for getting rid of dandruff.
Hi Alexa,
Unfortunately have found myself in a position searching for a resource like this, but happy to have stumbled across your site.
A few quick questions if you wouldn’t mind answering;
I’ve just got myself some Nizarol shampoo as the stronger treatment type shampoo.
Would you recommend Maple Holistics argan shampoo as a good one to use in the days off from using the Nizarol?
I’ve been using Odylique’s tea tree shampoo for a while, sometimes it’s ok for a day (though not really) but wondering if I should just stick with that now I have Nizarol which will hopefully be doing much of the leg work in terms of dandruff anyway?
And lastly (sorry!), how do you feel about mixing shampoos? Like mixing one that has tea tree in with an argan for example?
Thanks for all your work here, it is very much appreciated.
Hey Al,
Thanks for your message, and no worries! Your questions were similar to mine when I bought Nizoral and I am happy to share that information with you!
I would suggest you try only Nizoral for a while (remember to follow the instructions and use it every 2 – 3 days as it can leave your hair dry)
During the off-days, I often time only use water as after a week, Nizoral completely clears my dandruff and I don’t need to use anything else.
If your dandruff is not cleared after a week or two of Nizoral, or your hair is too dry and you need a mild shampoo in-between during the off-days, try to use an argan oil shampoo. I would recommend Maple Holistics or Buena Skin as both are soothing and I prefer them the most.
I would stay away from mixing for now!
Give it a shot and let me know, am glad to guide your accordingly depending on the results.
Have a great day! 🙂
Alexa