What Is Sweet Almond Oil, What Does It Do? Skin and Allergy Note

This oil, labelled Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil on packaging, is a softener frequently used in massage oils and creams. Because it is rich in oleic acid it stays liquid and can leave an oily feel on the skin. Its composition varies with almond variety and production: in one review 70% oleic and 20% linoleic acid were reported, and in an analysis measuring four almond varieties 57-64% oleic and 25-30% linoleic acid were given. The same analysis found that alpha-tocopherol is the most abundant vitamin E family member, with total tocopherol measured at 409-492 mg/kg. Because its unsaturated fat share is high, store it in a closed container in a cool place, and do not apply oil that has turned sour.

How strong are the studies on cracks and hand dryness?

This table does not lead to the result "removes cracks". The more reasonable reading is that it may help relieve dryness and itching. For the limits of oil choice for cracks, see the cracked skin oil page. If you are pregnant, it is also a good idea to consult your doctor before starting a new product.

Does sweet almond oil work in hair?

We do not know a controlled human study testing sweet almond oil in hair. A recent review also mentions scalp use, but we see no strong clinical result to rest on. What is known is general oil behaviour: it smooths the strand surface, may ease combing, and excess makes hair heavy. We have no basis for claims that it "lengthens hair" or "stops hair loss". Starting with a few drops on the lengths is an example, not a measured amount. The hair oil page guides general use.

What should people with a nut allergy do?

• Allergy: Almond is a nut, and from the label you cannot tell how much protein remains in the oil. If you are allergic to almond or another nut, ask your doctor before use. If you have breathlessness or swelling of the face, get emergency help.
• Babies and small children: Skin sensitisation has been published in a 5-month-old baby to whom almond oil was applied. Although it is a single case, do not use this oil on a child with food allergy or eczema without consulting your doctor.
• Irritation: In an old study in rabbits lasting 90 days, pure oil and a 2-10% aqueous emulsion caused moderate skin and eye irritation. These are animal data, but "natural, therefore harmless" does not allow that conclusion. First apply it on the inner arm, twice a day, for 7-10 days.
• Injection: A granuloma from oil was reported after injection of almond oil and vitamin E into the face. This oil is applied only to the skin.

What is the difference from bitter almond oil?

Bitter almond contains amygdalin, which upon breakdown forms benzaldehyde and cyanide. Bitter almond oil is therefore processed to remove these and does not substitute for sweet almond oil. The label name is also different: Prunus Amygdalus Amara. In one of the crack studies, bitter almond oil was tried in massage, but the study was not randomised, so do not carry its result over to sweet almond oil.