What it is: A popular carrier oil because it is non-greasy, spreads easily, and is great for nourishing the skin. Essential oils can be mixed with it because of its light nature. Often called sweet almond oil, it contains strong concentrations of vitamin E.

Where it comes from: Almond oil is warm-pressed to extract the oil from the dried kernels of the almond tree.

Properties: This mild liquid has a pale yellow color in its natural state, is rich in unsaturated fats and essential fatty acids, and it contains strong concentrations of vitamin E. Because almond oil is not greasy, it is absorbed quickly. It is known to be soothing, healing, lubricating, softening, revitalizing, and nourishing. Rich in minerals, vitamins, and proteins, it is also good for sensitive or irritated skin.

What it’s good for: Almond oil is used topically to moisturize dry skin, soothe chapped lips, and relieve itching due to dryness. It is an excellent emollient (softening and soothing to the skin) and helps the skin to balance its loss and absorption of moisture. Almond oil is considered to be a good all-purpose carrier oil. It is a good massage medium to use to help spread the oil and essential oil mixture, while still allowing you time to do a good massage before it is absorbed by the skin.

Where you’ll find it: It is frequently added to emollient bases to help soften and heal. It is found in many face moisturizers, body creams, massage oils, soaps, hair and nail (specifically cuticle) treatments.

Other uses: It has been known to be used as a lubricant in the delicate mechanics of watches.

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