MOROCCAN COSMETICS : ICONIC SOUVENIR FROM MOROCCO

citylockma
Oct 16, 2024
4 min read

Updated: 9 hours ago

Looking for a iconic souvenir from Morocco? Think Moroccan Cosmetics! Visiting Morocco and want to bring back something original for your loved ones? Instead of the usual babouches or ceramics, consider Moroccan beauty products! Morocco is home to a wealth of traditional skincare treasures that have been used for generations. Made from natural ingredients and rooted in ancestral beauty rituals, they make the perfect gift to extend the Moroccan sensory experience into the bathroom. But what are the most iconic products? And how do you choose the best ones?

We’ve got all the answers.

MOROCCAN BEAUTY PRODUCTS : ICONIC SOUVENIR
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT BEAUTY PRODUCTS ?
CAN I BRING COSMETICS IN AIRPORT SECURITY ?

1. MORCCAN BEAUTY PRODUCTS : ICONIC SOUVENIR

Morocco is filled with artisanal wonders, but if you’re looking for a useful, natural, and authentic souvenir, Moroccan cosmetics are an excellent choice. Here are the must-have products to bring back—for your loved ones… or your own self-care routine!

ARGAN OIL

A must-have, used both in cooking (when the kernels are roasted) and in cosmetics. This oil is known for its nourishing and revitalizing properties, perfect for skin and hair. Rich in vitamin E, it helps prevent skin aging and deeply hydrates.

DID YOU KNOW? The argan tree can survive up to 7 years without a drop of water!

THANK YOU, ARGAN!

The argan tree was once threatened by deforestation before being revived in the 1990s with new plantations.

💡 Buying argan oil is more than just a beauty purchase!

Helps preserve the Argan forest and encourage replanting
Supports local women’s cooperatives
Enjoys a natural product with multiple benefits

BEWARE OF FAKE ARGAN OIL!

Here’s how to recognize real argan oil:

The label must state “100% argan oil”
The texture should be fluid but not too runny
The color is golden with a slight amber hue
It absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy film

👛 ARGAN OIL PRICE IN MOROCCO?

Expect to pay 200 to 300 MAD (20-30€) for 100ml. If the price seems too low, be cautious!

BLACK SOAP

A staple Moroccan product! This natural exfoliant is made from macerated black olives, vegetable oil, and potash. Traditionally used in hammams, it gently exfoliates, hydrates, and leaves the skin soft and radiant.

FOR SMOOTH, PURIFIED SKIN

Don’t forget to buy a Kessa glove to recreate the hammam experience at home and remove dead skin. If it feels too rough, soak it in warm water for 10 minutes before use for a gentler exfoliation.

👛 BLACK SOAP PRICE IN MOROCCO?

At the souk, a 250g jar costs between 2-6€, while locals often pay just 1€ per kilo!

GHASSOUL CLAY

Unlike black soap, ghassoul clay is rich in minerals like magnesium and silica, which help absorb excess oil and remove impurities. It’s a purifying treatment ideal for sensitive and oily skin.

THE PURIFYING CLAY

•⁠ ⁠Cleanses skin and hair gently

•⁠ ⁠Absorbs impurities without stripping natural oils

•⁠ ⁠Ideal for sensitive and oily skin

👛 GHASSOUL PRICE IN MOROCCO?

A 250g jar costs between 2-6€—but if you bargain like a local, you can get 1kg for just 1€!

HENNA

Traditionally used to dye hair, nails, and skin, henna strengthens, hydrates, and leaves a natural tint. It is a symbol of oriental beauty, deeply appreciated for its nourishing properties.

🤔 HENNA TATTOOS ON JEMAA EL-FNA SQUARE: YES OR NO?

While visiting Jemaa el-Fna, beware of henna tattoos:

❌ Some women can be (very) insistent! If you’re not interested, be firm from the start.

❌ Some use PPD, a harmful chemical, or unclean tools.

📌 Set the price in advance—it shouldn’t exceed 10€.

NIGELLA SEEDS & EUCALYPTUS CRYSTALS

Another unique souvenir to bring back from Marrakech is natural health products:

📌 Nigella seeds (5€ per 100g) – Packed with nutrients and anti-inflammatory properties.

📌 Mint or eucalyptus crystals (5-10€ per small jar) – Used to relieve colds and replace mint in tea.

2. HOW TO CHOOSE COSMETICS IN THE SOUKS ?

Marrakech’s souks offer a wide range of products, but not all are authentic, and prices can skyrocket. Remember the universal rule: Tourist areas = Tourist prices. Here are some tips to ensure you’re buying the real deal:

CHOOSE COOPERATIVES

Choose specialized shops and cooperatives : They guarantee organic, pure products.

CHECK LABELS

Remember, 100% pure argan oil should have only one ingredient.

AVOID LOW PRICES

High-quality products come at a certain cost, especially argan oil and ghassoul.

ASK ORIGIN

Prefer locally made products with certifications.

SHOP LIKE LOCALS

The old Jewish quarter is a great alternative to the touristy souks. Prices are fairer, and the quality is often better.

DON'T TRUST YOUR NOSE

Some vendors pour pure argan oil on top, but the oil underneath may be mixed with other oils.

3. CAN I BRING MOROCCAN COSMETICS THROUGH AIRPORT SECURITY ?

Good news—you can! (We wouldn’t write this article just to have you lose everything at customs…). However, there are a few rules to follow:

✈️ In carry-on luggage:

•⁠ ⁠Liquids (argan oil, rose water) must be in bottles of 100ml max, placed in a clear plastic bag.

•⁠ ⁠Solid products like rhassoul clay and black soap have no restrictions.

🛄 In checked luggage:

•⁠ ⁠No issues for liquids, regardless of volume.

•⁠ ⁠Pack bottles carefully to avoid leaks.

💡 Not sure about the right amount?

Ask the vendors! They often have travel-friendly sizes.

As you’ve probably guessed, bringing back Moroccan beauty products is a wonderful way to offer your loved ones an authentic, natural, and sensory souvenir. And speaking of souvenirs, did you know we offer a luggage storage service right in the heart of Marrakech? It’s the perfect way to keep your precious souk finds safe before you head to the airport!