The Benefits of Almond Oil for Skin, Hair, and Cooking

Almond oil is rich in nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and other trace minerals. Incorporating it into your routine may support overall wellness, tame frizz, and enhance your complexion, among other advantages.

Almonds are nutrient-dense foods. They contain healthy fats, fiber, phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals.

Almonds originated in the Middle East. Today, California produces more almonds than anywhere else. Over the last two decades, California’s almond output has doubled as awareness of their health benefits has grown. Many dietary guidelines highlight almonds for their heart-friendly fats.

But what about the oil extracted from almonds? Below is an exploration of its health and beauty benefits.

What is almond oil?

Almost half of a dried almond’s weight is oil. Mature almonds are pressed to yield the oil, usually with minimal heat.

This unrefined almond oil preserves the nutrients and delicate flavor. Refined almond oil, by contrast, is produced using higher heat and sometimes solvents.

Although refined almond oil tolerates higher temperatures during cooking, it may lose some nutritional content compared with unrefined versions. Sweet almond oil (commonly sold for culinary and cosmetic use) differs from bitter almond oil.

Bitter almond oil comes from a different almond variety and is processed to remove naturally occurring toxins in the almond skins.

Almond oil general benefits

Almond oil is a rich source of vitamin E, and it provides magnesium, phosphorus, and copper. The antioxidant-packed oil helps neutralize free radicals. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and can support immune function.

With omega-3 fatty acids present, almond oil may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and support memory. It might contribute to a reduced risk of conditions like cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Benefits of almond oil for skin

For centuries, almond oil has been applied to soothe skin and assist in treating small cuts and abrasions. Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine have used it to address skin issues like eczema and psoriasis.

Beyond relieving dryness, almond oil can help even out complexion and skin tone. It is highly emollient, meaning it helps regulate moisture absorption and prevent excessive water loss. Thanks to its antibacterial qualities and vitamin A content, it can be used as part of acne care. Its vitamin E content also aids in repairing sun damage, minimizing signs of aging, and lightening scars.

Almond oil absorbs rapidly and is an effective moisturizer for both face and body. You can apply it neat or blend it with essential oils to enhance benefits. Besides moisturizing, it serves well as a massage oil or targeted skin treatment.

It also exhibits notable antifungal activity. Massage into feet to help prevent athlete’s foot or to assist in treating fungal infections like ringworm. Almond oil can be used as a cleanser or a gentle makeup remover as well.

Benefits of almond oil for hair

Almond oil benefits more than just the skin — it nourishes hair too. The oil can soften and strengthen strands. Rich in vitamin B-7 (biotin), almond oil supports healthy hair and nails. It also offers some sun protection, with a natural SPF around 5.

Use almond oil as a scalp treatment: its antibacterial and antifungal properties help rebalance the yeast that contributes to dandruff. Because it penetrates the skin well, it hydrates the scalp and helps cleanse hair follicles.

Almond oil can also tame frizz and repair damaged hair. Apply a small, dime-sized amount (or less) to your hair ends before blow-drying to add moisture and reduce frizz.

Should you cook with almond oil?

Eating almond oil can be beneficial for heart health. Packed with monounsaturated fats, almond oil may raise levels of “good” HDL cholesterol and lower “bad” LDL cholesterol when it substitutes for saturated and trans fats.

Its antioxidant content, anti-inflammatory effects, and impact on cholesterol all contribute to a potential reduction in cardiovascular disease risk.

When cooking with almond oil, use unrefined or virgin types at low temperatures to avoid burning the oil and degrading its nutrients. Unrefined almond oil works well for salad dressings, low-heat baking, or finishing a dish for extra flavor and nutrition.

The oil’s mild taste makes it easy to incorporate into recipes. Refined almond oil, which has been processed to withstand higher heat, can be used for roasting or sautéing at temperatures up to about 420°F (215°C).

Next steps

While whole almonds deliver the most nutrients, almond oil can be a healthful addition to your diet.

Whether you use it on your skin or in the kitchen, opt for unrefined or virgin almond oil when possible — it retains more of the beneficial nutrients for skin, hair, and overall health.

If you suspect you might have a nut allergy, get tested before ingesting almond oil or applying it topically.

If you believe you are not allergic, perform a small patch test on the inside of your wrist before incorporating it into your skincare routine.