Sweet Almond Oil Benefits For Skin:
Sweet almond oil (SAO) differs from regular almond oil. It is popularly used in all sorts of bath and beauty products. Today, we focus on sweet almond oil benefits for skin, in particular.
Both almond derivatives have been around for a long time. In fact, they were used in ancient Hindu cultures. For example, pastes were made with crushed almonds, and used as body cleansers.
In this post, we’ll discuss almond oil and potential benefits for your skin. In addition, some applications it can be utilized in.
The Basics:
Color: Light Yellow
Scent: Very light
Commonly used for: Cold process soaps, bath bombs, lotions, scrubs, exfoliants
INCI Name: Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil
Normal Usage: Up to 18% in cold process soaps. Up to 15% in lotions, & creams. Up to 10% in balms
Normal Extraction Methods: Expeller pressed, refined
Melting Point: Liquid at room temperature
Composition: phytosterols, tocopherols, fatty acids, vitamin A, vitamin E, B2
Warning: Don’t use if you have a nut allergy
What is Sweet Almond Oil?
Sweet almond oil comes from extracted oil of sweet almonds which are produced by a tree called prunus dulcis var. amygdalas. More then almond oil, sweet almond oil is the one in which most choose to use in bath and beauty products.
Sweet almond oil can be a perfect choice for home DIY products. In fact, many DIY’ers and hobbyist’s choose to use SAO in products to sell. For example, soaps, lotions, scrubs and others. Oftentimes, this is due to the oil’s versatility.
Additionally, sweet almond oil can be used as a carrier oil for essential oils in massages (i.e. aromatherapy massages), or to increase the moisturizing effect in soaps and bath bombs. It’s lightweight texture and ability to help moisturize, makes it suitable for many different skin types.
Sweet almond oil is not the same as almond oil. Almond oil is produced from a different type of almond tree. In fact, almond oil is actually considered to be an essential oil. Furthermore, there composition is different and they also differ in the way in which they are used and in application.
Sweet almonds are also edible. They’ve been touted to have a host of health benefits when ingested. For example, cholesterol & immune support. They are sources of vitamin E, omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin A.
Sweet Almond Oil Benefits For Skin:
Sweet almond oil is great when used as a carrier oil (partially due to its soft aroma). As beforementioned, it’s perfect when used as a massage oil, combined with other oils, or used with skin safe (diluted) aromatherapy oils.
Moisturizing Properties
Sweet almond oil is also a fantastic ingredient for lip products and exfoliants. Its quick absorption leaves the skin feeling hydrated, smooth, and luxurious.
Rich in essential nutrients and vitamins, sweet almond oil revitalizes the skin. It’s packed with Vitamin A and E, as well as various fatty acids. Due to its high absorbency, sweet almond oil is an excellent addition to a range of bath and beauty products, enhancing skin health and texture.
Ideal for Massage Oil!
Sweet almond oil is noted for its mild hypoallergenic properties, making it excellent for skin care. This quality renders it appropriate for all skin types, including being a popular choice for baby massages.
Consider using sweet almond oil for massages as a means of stress relief. Massages with this oil can offer benefits such as reduced joint and muscle pain and contribute to a more relaxed state of mind.
Potential Relief for Itchy Skin, Eczema, and Dermatitis:
Sweet almond oil may be beneficial for those suffering from itchy skin, eczema, or dermatitis. Its soothing properties can help alleviate discomfort associated with these conditions.
A study done in 2017 compared aloe vera gel and sweet almond oil on striae gravidarum in nulliparous women. Results suggesting SAO helps to “reduce itching of striae, but also prevent their progression”.
Sweet almond oil has been used for centuries to help with eczema and psoriasis. In 2018, a study found that using 7% sweet almond oil with 2% colloidal oatmeal was effective in treating moderate to severe dermatitis.
Ideal for Soap Making:
Sweet almond oil is a fantastic choice for crafting high-quality soaps. If you’re in search of a reliable base oil for your soap-making endeavors, sweet almond oil is an excellent option. It can be incorporated at levels of 18-20% in soap formulations. Additionally, it imparts a non-greasy yet moisturizing effect on the skin.
Sweet Almond Oil in Cold Process Soaps:
- Great for dispersing colors. For example, micas and oxides during the premixing process.
- Usage rate: 1 tbs. oil to 1 tsp. colorant.
- Use 18% – 20% in CP soap.
- SAO is a great oil for herb infusions
Enhancing Hair Health:
Sweet almond oil isn’t just beneficial for skin health; it also plays a significant role in improving hair health. The vitamins and minerals that nourish the skin also work wonders in moisturizing both hair and scalp. Oleic acid, in particular, is known for strengthening hair.
Moreover, sweet almond oil can contribute to increased shine and reduced frizz, making hair more manageable and vibrant. Its lightweight nature ensures that it hydrates without weighing hair down, making it an ideal choice for regular use. Whether used as a conditioner or a scalp treatment, sweet almond oil can be a valuable addition to your hair care routine.
When used in hair applications like shampoo, it can add a sheen, and act as a oil/water emulsifier.
Final Thoughts!
Sweet almond oil (SAO) is an incredibly versatile oil suitable for numerous applications, from hair and skin care to lip treatments. Its multifaceted benefits make it a standout choice in any beauty regimen.
We’d love to hear about your favorite products containing SAO that you’ve incorporated into your skincare routine. Also, for those interested in exploring more, check out Brambleberry. It’s an excellent resource for discovering fantastic products and engaging DIY projects, complete with insightful tutorials and high-quality supplies.
References:
- https://mountainroseherbs.com/sweet-almond-oil
- https://www.mapleholistics.com/blog/sweet-almond-vs-almond/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28521546/
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.3109/10915818309140716
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29320591/
- https://blackpaint.sg/almond-oil/#Sweet_almond_oil
- https://www.soapqueen.com/bramble-berry-news/sunday-night-spotlight-sweet-almond-oil/y
