Almond Oil Benefits for Skin

Almond oil is acquired from the almond seed, which contains protein, vitamin E and B vitamins, as well as essential minerals, healthy fats and protein. The nutritional content of almond oil has made it a dietary source of these ingredients, but the benefits of almond oil go beyond the inside of the body. While consuming almond oil will benefit the skin, topical application offers several benefits as well.

The sun can be damaging to the skin, as its harmful UV rays cause sunburn, wrinkling and other signs of damage associated with aging, as well as skin cancer. You may already protect yourself from the sun with sunblocks and sunscreens, but almond oil is another tool you can use. The March 2007 issue of the "Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology" reports a study that states that applying almond oil to the skin will not only protect it but can also reverse damage that may have already occurred. The study, performed by researchers at Hamdard University in New Delhi, India, explains that mice were exposed to 12 weeks of sun exposure (a typical summer), and at the end of that 12 weeks there were noticeable skin changes. However, mice that were treated with almond oil during exposure had fewer signs of skin aging and damage. The researchers, led by Y. Sultana, concluded that applying almond oil to your skin not only protects you from the sun's harmful rays, but it also slows down the skin's aging process.

Along with protecting the skin from sun damage and signs of aging, using almond oil as a skin moisturizer will soften and smooth the skin. According to the February 2010 issue of "Complementary Therapies In Clinical Practice," almond oil has emollient properties, which gives it the ability to rejuvenate and soften the skin, thereby evening out the skin tone and improving the complexion. The author, Z. Ahmad, from the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Salisbury General Hospital in the U.K., also states that almond oil has been shown to reduce scarring that occurs with surgery and should be considered as a possible post-operative treatment.

Skin irritation, such as itching and swelling, can also be reduced with almond oil. There are many skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, that cause inflammation of the skin, as well as redness and an itchy rash. Topical application of almond oil can temporarily relieve the inflammation and the irritation associated with such conditions. For some, however, almond oil can be a skin irritant, so before applying it to the skin, a small patch test should be done to determine if you have an allergy, or sensitivity, to almond oil.