🌿 Sweet Almond Oil
Latin Name: Prunus dulcis
📌 How It Is Extracted
Sweet Almond Oil is cold-pressed from the kernels of the sweet almond tree (Prunus dulcis). Cold pressing preserves its rich nutritional profile, including vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants. No heat or chemical solvents are used, ensuring a pure, high-quality oil.
⏳ Shelf Life
Approximately 12–18 months when stored in a cool, dark place. Adding a small amount of Vitamin E oil can help extend its shelf life. Refrigeration is recommended once opened.
✨ Properties & Characteristics
- Light to medium texture; absorbs readily into the skin
- Pale yellow in colour with a faint, sweet, nutty scent
- Deeply moisturising and emollient
- Rich in oleic acid (Omega-9) and linoleic acid (Omega-6)
- High in Vitamin E and Vitamin A
- Mild and suitable for sensitive skin
🎯 Best Used For
- All skin types, especially dry, sensitive, and mature skin
- Facial and body massage – ideal base for aromatherapy blends
- Reducing skin irritation, itchiness, and inflammation
- Softening and soothing eczema and psoriasis-prone skin
- Hair conditioning treatments
- Diluting essential oils for topical use (typical dilution: 2–3%)
🧪 Key Chemical Constituents
- Oleic Acid (Omega-9): ~62–86% – moisturising, skin-softening
- Linoleic Acid (Omega-6): ~8–28% – helps repair skin barrier
- Palmitic Acid: ~4–9% – protective and conditioning
- Stearic Acid: ~1–3% – emollient and cleansing properties
- Vitamin E (Tocopherols): antioxidant, protects skin cells
- Vitamin A (Retinol): promotes cell renewal
⚠️ Contraindications & Cautions
- Nut allergy: Individuals with tree nut allergies (especially almond allergy) should avoid this oil. A patch test is strongly recommended before use.
- Not suitable for those with severe nut allergies – consider using a nut-free alternative such as sunflower or grapeseed oil.
- Generally considered safe for most people when used topically.
- Avoid contact with eyes.