Right from the invention of Ayurvedic medicine, almond oil has been a key player in the history of ancient medical remedies. This can be attributed to its medical anti-inflammatory properties which soothe and soften the skin. Almond oil not only offers benefits to adults but also to babies. With its versatile benefits, it has made its presence in a wide variety of cosmetic and skincare ranges in recent days.
In this blog, we’ll look at the benefits of almond oil and the ways it can be used on your baby skin.
What is Sweet Almond Oil?
There are two types of almond oil: sweet almond oil and bitter almond oil. Sweet almond oil contains vitamin A, vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, potassium, zinc and it is best suited for skin and hair. Sweet almond oil is obtained from an Almond tree (Prunus amygdalus var. Dulcis) whose seeds do not contain any poisonous chemicals whereas Bitter Almond oil is derived from a different kind of Almond tree (Prunus amygdalus var. Amara) and can be toxic. Bitter Almond oil is used only for medicinal purposes.
One of the aspects that determine the quality of sweet almond oil is the process of extraction. Cold-Pressed sweet almond oil is the best quality available in the market. Let's understand how sweet almond oil is extracted by the cold-pressed method?
Why Should We Use Cold-Pressed Sweet Almond Oil?
Almonds are loaded with nutrients. When these almonds are exposed to heat and chemically treated, some of these nutrients get lost. The cold-pressing method extracts the oil from the almond seeds with minimal heat and by pressing them with a stone/wood/steel press. And that’s how we get cold-pressed sweet almond oil that retains all nutrients, benefits and flavour.
How Sweet Almond Oil is Good for Baby Massage?
Many experts suggest that regular oil massages for babies help them to develop strong bones while nourishing the delicate baby skin. However, new parents are often confused to choose the right oil available in the market. But most parents prefer sweet almond oil as baby oil because it’s safe for the baby’s skin.
Benefits of using Sweet Almond Oil for Babies
Sweet almond oil has many benefits, one major benefit is, it can be used as a natural moisturizer for babies. Sweet almond oil is not only good for the skin but also for the hair and scalp. Are you excited to explore more such benefits of the oil? Let’s discuss below a few more ways to use sweet almond oil for babies.
Can be used as a Moisturizer
As Babies have the most sensitive skin, it needs to be treated with proper care. Sweet almond oil is considered as the baby skin glowing oil since Vitamin E present in the oil provides adequate nourishment for the baby's skin. The light texture of almond oil gets absorbed into the baby’s skin easily, making it soft and moisturized.
Helps to Treat Skin Problems
Sweet almond oil is used to soothe, soften, and repair the skin. Vitamin A, B2, B6, and E, present in the oil, helps in treating the skin issues such as soreness, diaper rashes, itching, eczema and uneven skin tone. Moreover, it is edible and can be used as a lip moisturizer. Anti-inflammatory properties present in the oil helps in healing the damaged skin.
Removes Cradle Cap
Cradle caps are yellowish or brown, greasy, skin patches on the head of the babies. Usage of almond oil acts as an effective remedy in treating this cradle cap.
Baby Massage Oil
The soothing properties of this oil comfort and relax babies. Sweet almond oil massage improves blood circulation that helps in the relaxation of muscles that induces better sleep. Regular baby massages strengthen the bond between the parent and the child and also help in healthy brain development and emotional development in babies.
Helps in Hair Care
Sweet almond oil is very effective for baby's hair care. Vitamin E, magnesium, potassium, and omega-3 fatty acid helps in hair nourishment, promotes hair growth, prevents hair fall and maintain healthy hair.
Improves Bone Health
Almond oil has calcium and potassium which improves bone health and strengthens bone joints.
Promotes Healthy Nails
The presence of zinc and potassium promotes healthy nails in babies.
Remedy for Indigestion
A gentle sweet almond oil massage on a baby's tummy removes gas and helps in better digestion.
Precautions while using Sweet Almond Oil for Massaging a Baby
As we know the benefits of sweet almond oil, let's now dive in, to know a few precautions while using almond oil for massaging a baby.
- Always prefer to use only good quality cold-pressed sweet almond oil.
- Note the expiry date before buying the oil.
- Before applying oil, ensure that the oil doesn't cause any side effects.
- Use oil in adequate quantity. Excess oil results in skin rashes.
- Make sure that oil does not enter the baby’s ears, eyes and nose, as it might cause irritation and infection.
- Before giving almond oil massage to your little ones, make sure that you wash your hands properly.
We all know that almonds are the storehouse of nutrients, but incorporating almond oil in our daily skincare and diet provides enormous health benefits. It is always good to never ever compromise on the quality of the oil and the ingredients used. So, let's all glow internally and externally by adding sweet almond oil to our day-to-day life.
