Naturally gentle: Almond oil is a well-tolerated, low-acid skin care product. It moisturizes, protects against UV rays and is particularly suitable for dry and sensitive skin – for example on the face and for sensitive baby skin. Read here why almond oil is good for the skin, how it works and how to use it correctly.
Almond oil: ingredients and effects
Almond oil is obtained from the ripe seeds of the almond tree by cold pressing. It has a yellowish color and is odorless and tasteless.
Whether as a nourishing additive in a warm bath, as a moisturizing cream for the face or on its own: sweet almond oil has a beneficial effect on the skin . This is due to the valuable ingredients:
vitamins and minerals
- Almond oil supplies the skin with vitamins A, E, B and D as well as the minerals potassium, magnesium and calcium.
- An adequate supply of vitamin E in particular allows the skin to store moisture better, making it appear firmer and plumper.
- In addition, the high vitamin E content protects against oxidative stress , because vitamin E works against free radicals.
fatty acids
- Almond oil contains many unsaturated fatty acids. They get deep into the skin and make it soft and supple.
- Linoleic acid, for example, strengthens the skin’s resistance to infections and protects it from UV rays. It also provides the skin with moisture and counteracts skin irritation.
- Palmitic acid, an unsaturated fatty acid, ensures that the oil penetrates the skin well. This supports the moisturizing and smoothing effect.
Sweet almond oil (Prunus dulcis) is used for skin care. Bitter almond oil is one of the essential oils. It irritates the skin and mucous membranes and is therefore not suitable for skin care.
Almond oil: use on the skin and areas of application
Pure almond oil is considered hypoallergenic, so it almost never causes allergies. It is therefore particularly suitable for sensitive skin prone to allergic reactions.
Since almond oil is also low in acid, moisturizing and rich in fat, it is recommended for the care of dry, sensitive skin and baby skin.
In addition, almond oil may prevent allergies: Studies have shown that if you regularly rub almond oil all over your baby’s body, the risk of allergies may be reduced.
Almond oil is sometimes used after operations to prevent scars.
By the way: Almond oil can also be used to keep impure and acne-prone skin supple. Almond oil is considered non-comedogenic. Substances that clog skin pores and thus promote pimple formation and acne are referred to as comedogenic.
Use almond oil pure or diluted
Sweet almond oil is used as a base or additive in numerous cosmetics – for example in creams, lotions and ointments for face and body care. Used regularly, it keeps your skin smooth, soft and supple. There are many care products with almond oil on the market for sensitive baby skin.
You can also use sweet almond oil undiluted. To do this, apply the oil directly to the skin.
Areas of application for undiluted almond oil are, for example
- body massage
- Stretch marks
- Cracked, itchy areas of skin, for example on the elbow, in neurodermatitis or psoriasis
- Dry skin in babies
You can get pure almond oil in pharmacies, drugstores or on the Internet. When buying, pay attention to quality: It is best to choose pure, high-quality organic almond oil.
Make your own almond oil
If you like, you can simply make your own almond oil: you will need 500 grams of sweet almonds and two teaspoons of olive oil . First, grind the almonds in the blender until you get a uniform pulp.
Then add the olive oil, mix vigorously again and put the mixture in a sealable container. After about two weeks of storage at room temperature, the oil has separated from the almond mass.
Almond oil: The hair also benefits
Almond oil is not only good for the skin, but also moisturizes the hair. To do this, simply massage some sweet almond oil into the damp tips after washing and leave it on for at least 15 minutes. Then wash with water and, if necessary, with a mild shampoo.