Sweet Almond Oil: What are its effects on hair?

The almond tree is a fruit-bearing tree whose flowers are the first to appear at the end of winter, despite the morning frosts.This fruit tree is primarily cultivated in the southern regions, from the Alpes Maritimes to the western Pyrenees, including Corsica..

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". Sweet almond oil is primarily recognised for its moisturising and nourishing properties. It is used to maintain the skin, scalp and hair.

Sweet almond oil can provide benefits todry and brittle hair. Indeed, dry hair results from alack of sebum productionat the scalp level. This can stem from the use of a harsh treatment that denatures the structure of the hair fibre or from a decrease in cell activity with age. However, this lack of sebum can be compensated for by an intake of essential fatty acids. Composed mainly of omega 9 fatty acids (62 to 86% oleic acid), sweet almond oil can provide this intake. Moreover, hydrating the hair gives it flexibility and shine. In the case of curly hair, sweet almond oil helps to define the curls, while strengthening the elasticity of the hair fibres. Detangled, they are thus easier to style.

Beyond its effect on the appearance of hair, sebum is a component of the hair's protective film, namely the hydrolipidic film. As its name suggests, this protective layer shields hair fibres from external aggressors, primarily pollution and UV rays.By reinforcing this film, sweet almond oil contributes even more to the protection of hair fibres.

Furthermore, hair ageing is characterised by the emergence of grey and white hairs, as well as the weakening of hair fibres which promotes their loss. While this is a natural phenomenon, it can be significantly accelerated by oxidation reactions due to pollution, exposure to UV rays, smoking, etc. Containing vitamin E and phytosterols, known for their antioxidant power,sweet almond oil can provide protection for the hair against oxidative stress. The tocopherol and phytosterols neutralise free radicals to prevent them from causing damage and maintain good hair quality for as long as possible.

How to use it? Apply it directly to dry hair, focusing on the lengths and ends, two to three times a week.