Prickly Pear Oil vs Argan Oil

Morocco has given the beauty world two famous oils. Argan oil became a global star years ago. Prickly pear seed oil is newer to most people, and far rarer. Both come from the south of Morocco, both are loved for hair, but they don’t behave the same way. Here is how to choose.

At a glance

Prickly pear oil: the light, precious one

Prickly pear seed oil is known for being exceptionally rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant, and in linoleic acid. Its texture is so light that it disappears into the hair in seconds. That makes it ideal as a daily finishing serum: it adds shine and softness without weighing hair down. Learn more in our guide: Prickly Pear Oil for Hair.

Argan oil: the rich, comforting one

Argan oil is thicker and more enveloping. It is a great choice for very dry, thick or curly hair that needs more nourishment, and for pre-wash oil treatments left on for longer.

Which one is right for you?

• Fine or easily weighed-down hair: prickly pear oil.
• Daily shine and frizz control: prickly pear oil.
• Very dry, coarse or thick hair: argan oil, or both.
• Curly hair: both work well. Use argan oil as a weekly mask, and prickly pear oil to finish.
• Oily scalp: prickly pear oil on lengths only.

Can you use both?

Yes, and many Moroccan women do. Use a richer oil as a weekly pre-wash treatment, and a few drops of prickly pear oil as your daily finishing touch.

Why we chose prickly pear

At Lalla Lekbira, we built our haircare ritual around prickly pear seed oil because it is the lighter, rarer treasure of our region, and the one our grandmother trusted. Discover it in our Sahara Gold Hair & Scalp Serum.