Also known as the “King of Nuts”, almonds need no introduction, but when made into an oil, they are more than just something healthy to snack on. As a nutritional goldmine, Almond Oil is rich in fibre, fatty acids, phytochemicals, vitamins and minerals that have been seen to be rather beneficial from a therapeutic and cosmetic perspective.
Almond Oil is considered highly versatile across a range of health benefits and is even used in Ayurvedic medicine to promote healthy bones and muscles. Aside from its skincare benefits, Almond Oil has also been considered to enhance and restore brain and cognitive function, boost immunity and even promote reproductive health.
Nowadays, Almond Oil is highly valued for its nourishing benefits for all skin types, particularly amongst those wanting to enhance their skin and hair care routine.
What is Almond Oil?
Made by cold-pressing the kernels from the Almond Tree, Almond Oil packs a punch with its naturally occurring vitamins, antioxidants and fatty acids. It is then refined to produce a light oil in colour, consistency and odour. It is easily absorbable into the skin and pairable with almost any of your favourite essential oils for cosmetic purposes. It is also known to reduce feelings of stress, boost circulation and promote hair growth and shine.
For cosmetic purposes, Almond Oil is popular for its regenerative and emollient properties, and is known to remedy dry, acne-prone and sensitive skin types. From moisturising skin to improving skin complexion, from removing dark circles to make-up removal, Almond Oil is a versatile and effective carrier oil for both diluting essential oil and direct use.
Benefits of Almond Oil
The integral chemical components of Almond Oil include vitamins A, B-7, E, potassium, zinc and protein, it also contains oleic (omega 9) and linoleic (omega 6) acids. In addition, Almond Oil has a concentration of palmitic and stearic acids, as well as being filled with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial and emollient (soothing and softening) properties.
Needless to say, there is a reason why Almond Oil has become an all-purpose favourite as a non-irritable carrier oil for all things hair and skincare. Best of all, it can be used on its own, with your favourite essential oil or added to your existing serums or moisturisers to enhance their benefits.
Because it is classed as non-comedogenic (it won’t clog your pores), Almond Oil has a fast absorption rate that is ideal for all skin types. It can be used to help treat acne as well as soothe and moisturise dry and sensitive skin without clogging the pores. It also contains antioxidants that work to help protect the skin from damage and reduce the appearance of stretch marks and wrinkles.
Here are some other ways that Almond Oil may be beneficial to you:
- Boosts and maintains collagen production
- Fights against radical damage
- Smooths skin tone and boosts complexion
- Builds moisture retention
- Soothes skin irritations such as psoriasis and eczema
- Helps to maintain soft, supple skin
- Protects skin and hair from UV rays
- Fights against bacteria production
- Helps prevent blackheads
- Cleanses the skin from make-up, dirt and toxins
- Moisturises the hair, skin and nails
- Calms irritation and promotes healing
- Encourages hair growth
- Cleanses the hair follicles
- Hydrates the scalp and fights against dandruff
- Smooths frizz and encourage the healing of dry or damaged hair
Common Uses of Almond Oil
The uses of Almond Oil are almost endless. With that being said, the benefits you want to achieve will guide the most effective way you can use it. Here are some of the best-known ways to use Almond Oil:
Almond Oil For Hair
Almond Oil for Hair
Filled with emollient properties, vitamin B-7 and essential fatty acids, Almond Oil works wonders on conditioning, protecting and restoring hair while soothing the scalp.
Almond Oil for Scalp Care
- Because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties, the benefits of Almond Oil have been seen to hydrate and soothe the scalp and help fight against dandruff.
- Its emollient properties also work to moisturise damaged, dry or sensitive scalps, making it perfect for skin conditions such as dandruff, eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis.
Almond Oil for Hair Growth
- Almond Oil is filled with vitamin B-7 to support hair growth and encourage healthy, thick strands by cleansing the hair follicles.
- It contains Omega 6 and 9 fatty acids that work to smooth frizz, soften dry or dull hair, and promote a healthy shine.
- Almond Oil also contains stearic acid to help condition and protect the hair.
Almond Oil For The Skin
Almond Oil for Skin
Almond Oil is rich in antioxidants, essential fatty acids and emollient properties that are known to soften and soothe the skin and repair the skin barrier against damage and environmental elements.
Almond Oil for Skin Irritations
- Its emollient properties are known to encourage the healing of superficial burns, as well as soothe dry skin or skin affected by eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis.
- Almond Oil may also calm skin inflammation caused by sun damage, as it contains antibacterial properties that are beneficial for soothing and protecting sensitive or chapped skin.
Almond Oil For The Face
Almond Oil for Face
Almond Oil is non-comedogenic and easily absorbable into the skin, making it a popular option as an all-rounder for all skin types without the risk of clogging pores.
Almond Oil for Acne
- With stearic acid and cleansing properties, Almond Oil can clear out dirt, sweat and excess oil from the skin while also acting as a natural make-up remover.
- Its Omega 6 and 9 fatty acid content may also calm acne from appearing while preventing future outbreaks.
Almond Oil for Skin Tone
- Due to its palmitoleic acid content, Almond Oil is known to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and stretch marks while boosting a bright complexion. It also works to reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes.
- Almond Oil contains anti-inflammatory properties and omega 9 and 6 fatty acids that are known to boost collagen production, maintain radiant skin and build moisture retention.
How To Apply Almond Oil
Massage: Dilute a few drops of your favourite essential oil in Almond Oil to create a soothing and hydrating massage oil.
Directly on the Skin: Apply directly onto the skin to receive the many skin benefits of Almond Oil.
Diluting with Essential Oils: Almond Carrier Oil makes a great base for diluting essential oils. You can also add this oil in to a lot of skincare formulations such as skin serums and moisturisers.
Hair Mask: Apply this carrier oil to the scalp to create a nourishing hair mask.
Is Almond Oil Safe?
Almond Oil is generally safe, however, there are a few considerations for its use.
Before using Almond Oil, we recommend performing a skin patch test on a small area of the skin to check for a reaction. Those with sensitive skin should perform the test over at least 48 hours to give the body ample time to respond.
Because it is derived from the kernels of the Almond Tree, do not use Almond Oil if you have a nut (or tree nut) allergy.
Practice extra precautions when using Almond Oil if you suffer from eczema - this may increase the chances of having an allergic reaction.
Almond Oil and Pregnancy
Almond Oil is generally safe for topical use. If you are pregnant we recommend reaching out to your GP or healthcare practitioner to discuss any concerns you have about implementing Almond Oil into your skincare routine.
Where To Buy Carrier Oils?
While carrier oils are generally available to purchase at health, wellness and retail stores, it is important to keep in mind that the quality and purity of these carrier oils will vary. This is why we recommend finding a reputable supplier.
Here at AWO we have a wide selection of carrier oils and organic carrier oils that are sold at reasonable prices. Because our stock is purchased in bulk quantities our costs are significantly less, which allows us to offer high-quality products at affordable prices. We are also based right here in Australia!