Emollient

Argania Spinosa Oil

Plant-derived emollient oil from argan tree kernels (Argania spinosa). Rich in oleic acid (~43%), linoleic acid (~36%), and tocopherols (60-90 mg/100g, one of the highest tocopherol contents among cosmetic oils). Contains polyphenols including catechol, epicatechin, and hydroxytyrosol with anti-inflammatory and antiatherogenic activity. Promotes skin elasticity.
Limited Data
Insufficient safety data available. Consider enriching this ingredient.
Details

Description

Plant-derived emollient oil from argan tree kernels (Argania spinosa). Rich in oleic acid (~43%), linoleic acid (~36%), and tocopherols (60-90 mg/100g, one of the highest tocopherol contents among cosmetic oils). Contains polyphenols including catechol, epicatechin, and hydroxytyrosol with anti-inflammatory and antiatherogenic activity. Promotes skin elasticity.

Purpose

Function

Plant-derived emollient oil from argan tree kernels (Argania spinosa). Rich in oleic acid (~43%), linoleic acid (~36%), and tocopherols (60-90 mg/100g, one of the highest tocopherol contents among cosmetic oils). Contains polyphenols including catechol, epicatechin, and hydroxytyrosol with anti-inflammatory and antiatherogenic activity. Promotes skin elasticity.
Profile

Properties

Silicone
Silicone free
Compliance

Regulatory Status

EU
Permitted
Safety
EXCELLENT
US
Permitted
Absorptionmoderate
Sensitizationnone
MoSadequate
ConcernNone
Verdict

CIR Expert Panel concluded plant-derived fatty acid oils, including argan oil, are safe as used in cosmetic products. Highest tocopherol content (60-90 mg/100g) among commonly used cosmetic oils provides strong intrinsic antioxidant protection. Balanced oleic/linoleic fatty acid profile supports both emollience and barrier function. Anti-inflammatory polyphenol profile (catechol, epicatechin, hydroxytyrosol) adds therapeutic relevance. Standard heavy-metal and pesticide residue screening required under COSMOS/NATRUE.

US Note

Part of CIR Expert Panel assessment of 244 plant-derived fatty acid oils (concluded safe as used). Standard heavy-metal and pesticide residue screening required under COSMOS/NATRUE frameworks.

Assessment

Ratings

Comedogenic2/5
LowHigh
Irritancy0/5
LowHigh
Reference

Identifiers

Category
Emollient
Updated
Apr 23, 2026

No registry identifiers available for this ingredient.