Is sweet almond oil comedogenic?

This refers to a vegetable oil obtained from the cold pressing of the seeds from the fruits of the almond tree. To produce 1 L of sweet almond oil, approximately 2 to 3 kg of almonds are required. It is almost odourless and its texture is fluid with a greasy touch. It is generally pale yellow in colour, but it can be slightly darker, depending on the production conditions.

In cosmetics, its I.N.C.I. name is "Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil". This vegetable oil is the ultimate ally for dry skin. It nourishes, soothes and softens the skin. Thanks to its Vitamin E content, it possesses antioxidant properties that strengthen the skin's barrier function, making it more resilient. Sweet almond oil has the unique characteristic of being suitable for almost all skin types, including sensitive skin and baby's skin.

A substance is termed comedogenic when its application on the skin promotes the emergence of comedones and blackheads. Comedogenic ingredients clog the pores of the epidermis, which will struggle to expel its sebum or sweat secretions. These will accumulate under the skin and form blemishes.

The use of comedogenic oils is not recommended for combination to oily skin types that are already prone to blemishes. However, their use can be advised for dry skin lacking in nourishment. Not all vegetable oils are comedogenic, as each has its own comedogenicity index.

The comedogenicity of a compound is assessed on a scale of 0 to 5. A score of 0 indicates that no comedones have developed, meaning the pores are not blocked, while a score of 5 indicates a high likelihood of it causing comedones. To calculate this index, manufacturers determine, among other things, the rate of penetration of the compound in question into the superficial layers of the skin and its sensitivity to oxidation.

The comedogenicity index of a vegetable oil therefore depends on itsoxidative potential, knowing that an oxidised oil will naturally be comedogenic.

Its comedogenicity index is 2. Regarded as a moderately comedogenic oil, sweet almond oil should be used with caution on skin prone to blemishes. Not recommended for oily or acne-prone skin, sweet almond oil can be used without any contraindications on combination to dry skin types.

In fact, a moderately comedogenic vegetable oil such as sweet almond oil is primarily recommended for the maintenance of normal skin.

Sweet almond oil, rich in essential fatty acids, soothes, nourishes and softens the skin. It contributes to the formation of the hydrolipidic film without leaving a greasy residue.

• DiNARDO J. C. & al. A re-evaluation of the comedogenicity concept. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (2006).