Welcome to the latest feature in my ‘My Essentials’ series. This month, the star of the show is sweet almond oil. This rich lemon-hued liquid is a base ingredient in almost all of my skincare products, including my all-natural face creams and my facial oils. It’s extremely versatile and has some incredibly impressive qualities. Shall we explore a few?
The Origin Of Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil is extracted from the kernels of sweet almonds. Originating from the Mediterranean region and now widely cultivated around the world, this wonderful oil has been cherished for centuries.
It is produced through a process of drying, cracking, cold-pressing and extraction. Though some manufacturers use chemicals in this process, we use only organic sweet almond oil - naturally!
With its light, nutty aroma and pale golden hue, sweet almond oil is as beautiful as it is beneficial and is truly another one of nature’s most generous beauty boosters.
Sweet Almond Oil in Skincare
It’s worth noting that almond oil and sweet almond oil are quite different. The oils derived from bitter almonds do not offer the same benefits in cosmetics as those of sweet almonds.
Full of rich fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, sweet almond oil provides a wealth of goodness. In particular, the oil contains Omega-3, vitamin A, Vitamin E and Zinc which are super for skin care. Renowned for its moisturising and nourishing properties, this oil is a fantastic emollient, helping to smooth the skin. Providing essential hydration, it locks in moisture, keeping skin feeling soft and supple. Sweet almond oil has also been known to reduce the appearance of scars, stretch marks and wrinkles.
But this oil is not just working wonders for our skin, it’s also widely used in hair care products. A few drops applied to dry or damaged hair can help restore softness and shine. It’s also a splendid choice for a massage oil, leaving your skin smooth and hydrated.
Who Can Benefit from Sweet Almond Oil In Skincare?
If you’re battling dry patches or rough skin, sweet almond oil can be a game-changer. Ideal for hydrating dry or flaky skin, almond oil is used in almost all of my moisturisers and facial oils because it is suitable for all skin types, even those on the sensitive side. If you’re prone to acne you may wish to opt for products with high levels of sweet almond oil since it's non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores. Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants, which help to protect the skin from environmental stressors.
However, those with nut allergies or eczema sufferers should be cautious of products with sweet almond oil in them. As the oil is derived from the kernels rather than the nuts, many with increased skin sensitivity or nut allergies are still able to use sweet almond oil on their skin. Still, it’s always best to assess the risks with a medical professional and follow their guidance. Find out more on the National Eczema Association website.