Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about pure cosmetic argan oil and how Argan Purist plans to test every batch. Argan Purist has not launched yet; it is coming soon to Amazon in the US.
Pure argan oil is oil pressed from the kernels of the argan tree (Argania spinosa), with nothing else added. The tree grows mainly in southwestern Morocco. On a cosmetic label the oil is listed under its INCI name, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil. A pure product has that one ingredient and no blended carrier oils, fragrance or colorants.
Cosmetic argan oil is pressed from raw kernels, while culinary argan oil is pressed from roasted kernels. Roasting gives culinary oil a darker color and a nutty smell and taste. Cosmetic oil is pale golden with a light, mild scent. Argan Purist is a cosmetic oil for external use only and is not sold as food.
Argan oil is made up mostly of fatty acids, chiefly oleic acid and linoleic acid, plus smaller amounts of palmitic and stearic acid. It also contains natural minor components such as tocopherols (forms of vitamin E) and plant sterols. The exact profile varies naturally from batch to batch.
Argan oil purity is usually tested in a lab by gas chromatography (GC) of the fatty acid profile, which shows whether the oil matches the known range for genuine argan oil. Labs can also analyze the sterol profile, which is one of the more sensitive ways to detect blending with cheaper vegetable oils. Basic quality checks such as acid value and peroxide value help show freshness. Reference ranges for argan oil are published in standards such as the Moroccan standard and the Codex Alimentarius standard for named vegetable oils.
Yes, that is our core commitment: we plan to have every batch tested by an independent lab. Our test plan covers identity (fatty acid profile), adulteration screening (including sterols) and freshness. We will name the lab and the exact tests here once our testing partner is confirmed.
We plan to publish a lab report for each batch, matched to the batch or lot number printed on the bottle. Reports will be posted on this site once the first batch is tested. No reports exist yet because the product has not launched.
The most reliable way to spot fake argan oil is a lab test, because a diluted oil can look and smell normal. Some warning signs: an ingredient list with anything besides argan oil, a very low price, clear plastic packaging, a strong perfume smell, or no batch number. Home tricks like the freezer test are not reliable, so look for a seller who shares batch lab results.
Use a few drops at a time. For the face, warm two or three drops between your fingertips and press onto clean skin. For hair, smooth a few drops through the lengths and ends. For nails and cuticles, massage one drop into each nail. For the body, add a few drops to dry areas after a shower.
Argan oil is generally well tolerated, but any cosmetic can cause a reaction in some people. Patch test on a small area of skin before first use, and avoid contact with eyes. Argan oil comes from a tree nut, so people with nut allergies should ask a doctor before using it. Argan Purist is a cosmetic and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Argan oil commonly keeps for about 12 to 24 months when stored well, though the date printed on the bottle is the one to follow. Keep it tightly closed in a cool, dark place, away from heat and direct sunlight. Amber glass helps protect the oil from light. If it smells sharp or rancid, stop using it.
Argan Purist argan oil will come from Morocco, where the argan tree grows. We are currently evaluating Moroccan producers and will name our sourcing partner on this site once the supplier is confirmed.
The argan forest of southwestern Morocco is protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognized in 1998, and argan oil production supports many rural communities, including women's cooperatives. We aim to work with producers who source responsibly and pay fairly, and we will share details about our supplier once confirmed. We do not claim any certification we have not received.
Argan Purist is not on sale yet. We plan to launch on Amazon in the United States first. This page will be updated with a link when it is available.
Argan Purist is a brand of Adige Consulting, LLC, a Utah company. The oil is produced in Morocco by a supplier we are in the process of selecting.
Last updated November 2026.