Almond Oil for Hair: Top 16 Benefits & How to Use

Benefits Of Almond Oil For Hair?

Here are some of the most prominent benefits of almond oil for hair:

1. Scalp nourishment: Deep scalp nourishment is one of the primary almond hair oil benefits. Enriched with the goodness of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids , [1] almond oil nourishes hair and scalp from within, preventing excessive dryness, flakiness, and scalp irritation. It also contains vitamin E, [2] which is antioxidant in nature and helps to reduce the harmful effects of free radicals on your hair and scalp.
2. Promotes hair growth: Here are various benefits of almond oil for hair growth. This oil is rich in biotin , [3] which is vital in nail and hair health. Biotin improves hair follicle strength and boosts hair growth. Almond oil is abundant in magnesium, which helps improve hair protein levels, especially keratin. This strengthens the hair from within, making it less prone to breakage and facilitating growth.
3. Treats scalp conditions: Some other prominent almond oil scalp benefits are its antifungal and antibacterial properties. [4] These help treat many scalp conditions like dandruff, eczema, and psoriasis. Applying almond oil regularly to your scalp provides a soothing effect that relieves the itchy scalp. It also helps healthy skin to regenerate and reduces scalp infections.
4. Prevents premature greying: Almond oil is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, which protect the hair from oxidative stress — a leading cause of premature greying. Regular application of almond oil on your hair nourishes the hair follicles, ensuring they remain healthy and, thus, continue producing melanin — the pigment responsible for hair colour. That is why regular massages with this oil help delay the appearance of grey hair. [5]
5. Provides nutrition to the roots: Almond oil contains vital nutrients such as vitamin E, fatty acids, and magnesium. [6] When you massage your scalp with this oil, these get delivered directly to the hair roots and improve the health of hair follicles. As a result, almond oil enhances hair strength from the base, making healthier hair overall.
6. Reduces scalp inflammation:If you are suffering from persistent scalp infections and irritation and find your scalp constantly inflamed, try using almond oil. It helps to reduce inflammation significantly and soothes the scalp, preventing the spread of fungal or bacterial infections on the scalp.
7. Hydrates hair: Regular use of almond hair oil, especially when applied before shampooing, during hot styling and while brushing your hair at night, helps keep the hair hydrated. The linoleic acid in almond oil seals moisture and prevents water loss from the hair shaft. Because of this deep hydration, the hair retains its natural shine and strength, becoming resilient to breakage. [7]
8. Prevents split ends: Experts suggest using almond oil on the ends of hair to help seal the cuticle. This reduces the likelihood of split ends. The emollient properties of almond oil [8] smooth out the rough edges of damaged hair and prevent it from splitting further. By keeping hair hydrated, almond oil also reduces the need for frequent trims.
9. Strengthens hair: Almond oil strengthens hair from the roots to the tips by infusing it with essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Its rich composition helps repair weak and brittle strands, reducing the chances of breakage. This oil forms a protective sheath over the hair shaft, strengthening it.
10. Conditions your hair: If you are looking for a natural hair conditioner, there is nothing better than almond oil for hair. Its emollient properties soften your hair, lending it a smooth and manageable texture. It makes for one of the best and most highly nourishing leave-in conditioners. You can also combine it with other hair-friendly ingredients to ensure a super-effective, deep-conditioning hair treatment.
11. Deals with dandruff: The anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties of almond oil [9] make it super effective against dandruff and other scalp infections. It soothes itching and irritation caused by dandruff while keeping the scalp moisturised. One can notice a significant reduction in flakiness by using almond oil for dandruff, as it prevents the build-up of dead skin cells, providing long-term relief.
12. Reduces hair fall: Using almond oil for hair loss either by itself or in combination with other hair-friendly ingredients is a popular choice. The high levels of magnesium in this oil strengthen your hair follicles while vitamin E nourishes them from within. Almond oil’s hydrating properties also prevent hair loss due to excessive dryness.
13. Improves blood circulation: Consistent and regular scalp massaging with almond oil helps to improve blood circulation. With better flow, your follicles get ample oxygen and nutrients required to nourish the hair roots, boosting hair growth over time. This increased circulation also enhances the overall health of the scalp. [10]
14. Controls Oil Production: Almond oil for hair regulates excess sebum production on the scalp. This happens because regular oiling of the scalp helps balance natural oil levels. Since almond oil is light in texture, it does not clog the pores. As a result, the scalp does not become too greasy or too dry, making this oil suitable for both dry and oily scalps. By controlling oil production, almond oil also prevents the scalp from becoming too greasy or too dry, creating a suitable environment for healthy hair growth.
15. Enhances Shine, Texture and Manageability: Most almond oil benefits stem from the fact that it is a nutrient-rich oil that nourishes hair and scalp from within. Its rich vitamin E content helps to coat each hair strand, lending it a natural shine. Also, the emollient properties of this oil soften hair and improve its texture. This smoothens rough or frizzy hair, making it more manageable.
16. Protects Hair from Environmental Damage: Almond oil acts as a protective barrier against environmental stressors like pollution, UV rays, and heat. The antioxidants in the oil neutralise free radicals that can weaken hair strands. By creating a shield over the hair, it helps prevent damage resulting from exposure to harmful elements. This, in turn, reduces brittleness, dullness, and breakage, thereby keeping hair looking vibrant and strong.

Almond Oil Vs. Coconut Oil for Hair

Now that you are aware of the many benefits of almond oil for hair growth and texture, you must be wondering is almond oil good for hair. Alternatively, if there is any other oil, that is even better. Well, almond hair oil benefits are often compared with those of coconut oil. The table below gives a quick coconut oil almond oil comparison for a better understanding:

Almond Oil For Hair: Hair Types That Benefit

Almond oil is a very versatile hair oil that is suitable for all hair types. Here are some that benefit the most from it:

• Dry Hair: People who use almond oil for dry hair see exceptional benefits from this oil. The fatty acids and vitamin E from almond oil hydrate the hair shafts and lock the moisture in.
• Damaged Hair: You must try almond oil if you have hair damaged due to excessive hair styling, poor nourishment, or exposure to pollutants or chemicals. It nourishes hair follicles from within and lends a protective coating to damaged hair shafts.
• Frizzy Hair: Almond oil helps to tame frizzy hair by deeply moisturising and smoothing the hair cuticle. It has a lightweight texture that does not weight the hair down.
• Curly Hair: Almond oil for curly hair provides deep nourishment and moisture that curls need. It defines the curls, adds shine, and prevents breakage. Almond oil also helps keep your curls detangled and makes them easy to style.
• Thin or Fine Hair: For thin or fine hair, almond oil works as a light conditioner that does not leave a weighed-down look or greasy residue. It strengthens the hair shaft and improves volume over time.
• Hair Colour-Treated: Almond oil, when applied to colour-treated hair, preserves the colour. However, it hydrates the hair strands and helps repair the damage caused by chemical treatments. Also, the antioxidants in almond oil prevent further damage with regular care.
• Scalp Conditions: Almond oil is very helpful in offering relief to those who suffer from scalp conditions like dandruff, eczema, or psoriasis. [12] It is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial in nature and helps to soothe scalp irritation, promoting faster healing.
• Oily Hair: Did you know that almond oil helps to balance the natural oil production in oily scalps? This lightweight and non-greasy oil does not clog pores. That is why it is useful in managing sebum levels and creating an environment for better hair growth.

How to Use Almond Oil for Hair?

Here are some ways in which you can use almond oil for hair growth:

• Pre-Shampoo Treatment: Applying almond oil to dry hair just 15-30 minutes before shampooing helps protect the natural oils of the scalp. You can slightly warm the oil and gently massage it into your scalp and hair for better results.
• Deep Conditioner: Mix almond oil with your regular conditioner or use it on its own. Apply generously to damp hair, focusing on the ends. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing for deeply conditioned and smooth hair.
• Hot Oil Treatment: Warm almond oil slightly and massage into your scalp and hair. Cover your head with a towel for 30 minutes to let the oil penetrate deeply, then rinse. This treatment helps with hydration and shine.
• Overnight Treatment: If your hair needs deep nourishment, apply almond oil to your hair and scalp before bed. Cover your hair with a silk scarf or cap. You can wash it out in the morning to get soft and bouncy hair!
• Hair Serum: Use a few drops of almond oil as a natural serum. Mix it with a few spoons of water to make a spray mix. Apply it to the ends of your hair to prevent split ends, add shine and tame frizz.
• Scalp Massage: Warm some almond oil and massage it onto your scalp in circular movements for 15-20 minutes. Cover your head with a warm and damp towel and leave it on for 30 minutes before taking a head wash. This promotes hair growth and keeps the scalp healthy.
• Hair Mask: Add almond oil to a bowl of curd, a pureed banana, and one teaspoon of honey to make a hair mask. Apply this hair mask to damp hair and smoothen it out. Leave it on for 30 minutes, and rinse for visibly smoother and hydrated hair.

Almond Oil For Hair Risks And Side Effects

Almond oil is generally a very safe oil. However, some common side effects seen in people with nut allergies may include itching, swelling, or redness on the scalp. Also, its excessive use may cause a greasy appearance due to build-up. Although rare, almond oil may cause irritation or discomfort in overly sensitive scalps.

Takeaway

Almond oil for hair offers many benefits, like nourishing the scalp, promoting hair growth, reducing frizz, and improving overall hair health. It is a natural solution to improve the shine and strength of your hair. Consider trying it for healthier hair, but consult a dermatologist for personalised advice to ensure it fits your specific hair health needs.