Sweet Almond Oil: What it is, What it does

By: Ariana Watson

Here at Camille Beckman, we’re proud of the natural ingredients we use in our products. A common ingredient you’ll find in many of our products like our Silky Body Cream, Signature Hand Therapy, or our Restoration Oil is sweet almond oil.

What is it?

What exactly is sweet almond oil? Like olive oil, sweet almond oil is produced by pressing the nuts or fruit in order to acquire the oil. It’s referred to as “sweet”, rather than just “almond oil” because there is a bitter almond oil that is most commonly used for scent. 

What’s the Difference Between Sweet and Bitter Almond Oil?

There’s a big difference! To begin with, sweet and bitter almonds come from two different species of almond plants. Bitter almond oil is derived from a species of almond called Prunus dulcis, var. Amara. This is a species of almond that is poisonous to ingest (it’s where cyanide comes from), but is commonly used as an essential oil and in baking extracts.

Sweet almond oil, or Prunus amygdalus var. Dulcis as it’s scientifically known, is safe to ingest. It’s known for its medicinal qualities, including being naturally potent in vitamin E, and vitamin A, this naturally derived oil packs a punch of fatty acids like omega 6 and 9 that aid in both internal and external health. 

Why is it Good for My Skin?

This oil really packs a punch. Rich in omega 6, omega 9, and vitamins E and A, sweet almond oil tackles a wide range of skin conditions.

Sweet Almond Oil Benefits:

• Helps skin retain moisture
• Cleanses skin
• Softens skin
• Serves as an anti-inflammatory
• Helps with scaring
• Can help treat acne and prevent future breakouts
• Helps treat dark spots
• Can help prevent signs of aging
• Can help relieve psoriasis and eczema 

What Are Vitamin’s E and A Good For?

Vitamin E is an antioxidant and antiinflammatory. It’s great for protecting the skin from UVB rays and helps skin retain moisture.

Vitamin A supports healthy immune system, promotes the production of collagen, and can aid in the healing process of scared and spotted skin.

Can I Use it in My Hair?

Sweet almond oil is great for hair. Its moisturizing properties help restore the hair and promote hair growth, scalp health, and prevent split ends.

Take a pump of our Restoration Oil, or a few drops of straight almond oil and gently massaging into the scalp to repair a dry, flaky scalp. 

To revitalize dry, damaged hair and split ends, we suggest taking a small pump or dollop of the product and rubbing between your palms and fingers. Gently apply through hair, working from ends to roots for even distribution.

Use it as a Mask

It works well as a hair mask! Mix the oil in with a conditioner and let it sit, or you can heat the oil by itself, just so it’s warm to the touch. This step by step guide will walk you through the process. 

Sweet almond oil is a multipurpose product that we love using here at Camille Beckman. It’s rich in skin healing properties, and naturally derived, making it a go-to ingredient in many of our products.