For ages, almond oil is known for its wide range of uses. It is widely prescribed in ancient Greek, Chinese, and Indian medicine. A lot of people consider using Almond oil for acne to be a good option for effective treatment.
On the other hand, some of them also believe that almond oil only increases the chances of having acne! So, what is right? Is using almond oil for acne good or bad?
Before we discuss the efficacy for almond oil for face acne, let us first understand a bit about what causes acne.
Acne can be defined as a skin ailment which is caused when the pores of your skin get clogged with sebum, oil, or dead skin cells. This results in symptoms like pimples, blackheads, white spots, and the likes.
According to a study, in 2015, about 633 million people are suffering from problems related to acne.
Almond oil, more specifically sweet almond oil is a non-comedogenic oil. It is rich in fatty acids and has excellent exfoliating characteristics. These are some of the features which make almond oil useful for maintaining the health of your skin and hair.
Does Almond Oil Cause Acne?
As said before, acne is caused by the clogging of pores with oil. This is why people have the belief that almond oil(1) for acne is not an effective option. However, this is not true.
Yes, certain oils can indeed increase the chances of getting acne. But such oils are comedogenic. So, what is comedogenic oil? Put, a comedogenic oil is an oil which would clog your pores. Clogging of pores, as you might remember, is the primary reason behind acne.
Almond oil, especially sweet almond oil, is non-comedogenic oil. This means that this oil doesn’t clog the pores. Almond oil also had anti-inflammatory properties, which tends to soothe the skin. A recent study has been demonstrated in exhibiting its anti-inflammatory properties by using it on patients suffering from hand dermatitis.
Therefore, it is safe to say that Almond oil does not cause acne.
[Also Read: Natural Treatments to Help Acne]
Is Using Almond Oil for Acne a Good Treatment Option?
So, now that we know that almond oil doesn’t necessarily cause acne, does it make it good for treating acne? A lot of people believe that it helps when you are using almond oil for acne.
Numerous factors make using almond oil for acne a good option. For example, almond oil has excellent exfoliating properties. This helps in the removal of dead skin from the face, which reduces the chances of having acne.
A 2010 study, conducted by researchers at the University of Salisbury has found out that almond oil has important anti-inflammatory characteristics. This also helps in soothing skin and reducing pimples and blackheads.
When you are using Almond oil for face acne(2), the fatty acids present in the oil would also dissolve the excessive sebum (oil) in your skin pores, preventing acne.
Almond oil helps in rejuvenating and revitalizes the skin. At the same time, it also protects your skin from dirt and pollution. This makes using almond oil for acne, one of the most effective treatment techniques.
How to Use Almond Oil for Acne Treatment?
The efficacy of the almond oil for acne depends significantly on how you use it. Thankfully, there is nothing complicated in the ways of using almond oil for treating your acne. Let us take a quick look at some of the ways in which you can apply almond oil.
[Also Read: Essential Herbs to Treat Acne]
Methods to Use Almond Oil for Acne
1. As a Cleanser
You can apply almond oil on your face and then leave it for some time, before washing it off with lukewarm water.
2. As a Facial Massage
You can use 10-15 drops of oil and apply the oil on your face. The best time for doing it would be before you go to bed. This is highly effective when you are using almond oil for face acne.
[Also Read: Essential Oils for Acne]
3. As a Scrub
You can use almond oil for acne by applying it as a scrub. To do that, you would have to mix a little bit of almond oil with salt or powdered sugar and rub it on your face. Wash it off with water.
4. As a Moisturizer
To use almond oil as a moisturizer, you can use it along with a makeup base and apply it to your face. Almond oil is quickly absorbed into the skin, and that makes it perfect for a moisturizer.
[Also Read: Baking Soda for Acne]
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Bitter Almond Oil Just as Well as Sweet Almond Oil?
Sweet almond oil for acne is highly effective for treatment. However, bitter almond oil is not as effective. So, you should try to use sweet almond oil.
2. Are There Any Side Effects When You Use Almond Oil for Acne?
Almond oil is generally considered safe. However, if you are allergic to nuts, you should not be using it. Speak with your doctor to know about any potential hazards.
3. How Long Does It Take to Have Any Effect?
The time it takes for almond oil to have an impact on your acne differs from person to person. It depends on several factors. Your doctor would be able to make an informed prediction about how long it would take for almond oil to affect your acne.
Using almond oil for acne is not bad. If used the right way, it can help you to fight and even prevent acne. The oil is generally free from any side effects, and that makes it not only one of the most effective but one of the safest ways to treat acne. However, before you use almond oil for face acne, you should get in touch with your doctor to be aware of any risks. Stay informed and keep yourself healthy!
