Argan Oil vs. Coconut Oil: Which One Is Better for Your Hair (and the Planet)?
Hair oils are a hot topic - and for good reason. They’re the secret to sealing in moisture, taming frizz, boosting shine and protecting strands from damage. Two of the most talked-about contenders? Argan Oil vs. Coconut Oil.
Both are rich in nutrients and deeply moisturising. But if you’re choosing sides in the hair oil debate, we’re here to say: Coconut Oil wins - for your hair and the environment. Time to reveal why this multitasking super-oil deserves a permanent spot in your curl routine. Argan Oil vs Coconut Oil – here’s what you need to know.
Argan Oil: The “Liquid Gold” with Limitations
Argan Oil is often called “liquid gold” for its rich amber hue and high Vitamin E content. It comes from the kernels of the argan tree, which grows almost exclusively in Morocco. It’s moisturising, smoothing and known for giving hair that glossy finish - especially when used in lightweight styling serums.
But while Argan Oil has its strengths, it’s not always the best fit for curly or coily hair types, especially when it comes to long-term nourishment. Here’s why:
- It doesn’t penetrate the hair as deeply and tends to sit on the surface of the hair shaft. It leaves hair shiny and soft but doesn't give that deep moisture us curly girls need.
- It’s expensive and resource-heavy to produce, requiring large quantities of fruit and time-intensive manual labour.
- It’s less sustainable due to its limited growing region, long supply chains and high global demand.
If you’ve ever used Argan Oil and felt like your hair looked shinier but didn’t feel stronger or more hydrated long-term - that’s the surface-level action talking.
Coconut Oil: Nature’s Deep Treatment for Dry Hair
Coconut oil really does it all. Made from coconuts grown in sunny tropical regions, it's naturally packed with a special fatty acid that naturally bonds with hair, helping to keep it strong and healthy.
Why curly and coily hair types love Coconut Oil:
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💧 Deep hydration: It doesn’t just sit on top - it goes into the hair to replenish moisture where it's needed most.
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💪 Breakage defence: By strengthening the inner structure of the hair, it helps reduce protein loss and prevents breakage.
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✨ Scalp support: Coconut Oil is antimicrobial and soothing, making it perfect for dry or irritated scalps.
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🌿 Naturally sustainable: Coconuts grow easily, need fewer resources, and regenerate quickly - making them a more planet-friendly choice.
The Environmental Case for Coconut Oil
In a world where conscious beauty choices matter more than ever, Coconut Oil is a clear winner for sustainability.
✔️ Low environmental impact: Coconuts require minimal irrigation and grow in multi-crop ecosystems that support biodiversity.
✔️ Widespread cultivation: Unlike argan trees (which grow almost solely in Morocco), coconut palms are cultivated in multiple regions, reducing supply chain stress.
✔️ Little waste: Nearly every part of the coconut is used, from the husk to the oil to the water. Making it a zero-waste ingredient in many supply chains.
️✔️Ethical choice: Sustainable coconut farming supports local communities and fair-trade economies around the world.
By choosing Coconut Oil, you're not just nourishing your curls, you’re also making a kinder choice for the planet.
Which One Is Best for Your Hair?
If you’re looking for a high-shine serum or lightweight finish for fine hair, Argan Oil might be a nice occasional treat. But if you want lasting hydration, strength, and scalp-friendly nourishment, especially if your hair is curly, coily, or dry - Coconut Oil is the better long-term choice.
Our favourite ways to use Coconut Oil in your routine:
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In shampoo & conditioner: Like our Banana Butter and Coily Curls ranges: formulated with Coconut Oil to deeply nourish and protect every curl.
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As a scalp massage oil: To soothe dryness and boost circulation.
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As a sealing oil: After leave-in conditioner to lock in hydration and smooth the cuticle.
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In curl stylers: To reduce frizz, add shine and create soft hold with flexibility.
Final Thoughts: Argan Oil vs Coconut Oil
Coconut Oil Is the Curl Champion
While Argan Oil has its moment in the spotlight, Coconut Oil continues to be a real, reliable and sustainable staple for curls that need more than surface-level care.
It hydrates deeply. Strengthens from within. Supports the scalp and makes hair actually healthier - not just shinier.
At Umberto Giannini, we use Coconut Oil in many of our curl-friendly products because we believe in ingredients that work with your hair and with the environment. Beauty should be about more than just the result. It should be about the impact too.
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