Argan oil is one of Morocco's most sought-after treasures, and also one of the most frequently faked products sold to tourists. Pressed from the nut of the argan tree, a species found almost exclusively in southwestern Morocco, this oil has traditionally been produced by hand by women's cooperatives, using techniques passed down through generations. Staying at Riad Dar Kawkawa, just three minutes' walk from Jemaa el-Fna square, puts you within easy reach of the medina's genuine shops and cooperatives.
Culinary vs. Cosmetic Argan Oil
There are two distinct types of argan oil. Culinary argan oil is made from roasted kernels, giving it a strong, nutty aroma; it's used in cooking, most famously in amlou, a traditional spread made with almonds and honey. Cosmetic argan oil comes from unroasted kernels and is lighter, paler, and far more subtly scented, intended for skin and hair care. A trustworthy seller will always explain this difference clearly rather than trying to sell you one bottle for everything.
How to Spot the Real Thing
Be wary of suspiciously low prices: producing a single litre of argan oil takes hours of labor-intensive hand work, so a bargain price almost always signals oil diluted with sunflower or soybean oil. Look for shops displaying a women's cooperative label or an official certification. Smell the product: genuine argan oil has a natural, nutty scent, never an overpowering perfume designed to mask a poor-quality base. Texture matters too — cosmetic argan oil should feel light and absorb quickly into the skin, without leaving a heavy, greasy film.
Beyond argan, the medina offers other traditional Moroccan cosmetics worth trying: rhassoul clay, a mineral-rich clay used for centuries as a purifying face and hair mask; black soap (savon noir), an olive-based soap essential to the traditional hammam scrub; rose water from Kelaat M'Gouna, prized as a skin toner; and traditional kohl for the eyes.
One last piece of advice: avoid pushy street vendors making exaggerated claims or promising "direct from the producer" miracle prices. Always favor recognized cooperatives or trusted shops, ideally recommended by your riad.