Almond Oil for Hair: Benefits, Uses, and How to Apply It for Growth

Almond oil is a light, golden oil extracted from the edible seeds of the Prunus dulcis tree (almonds). There are two primary types—sweet almond oil (the type used for hair and skin) and bitter almond oil (which is typically used for scent).

Sweet almond oil is packed with crucial nutrients, including: Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant.

Omega Fatty Acids (like Oleic and Linoleic acid): These omega fatty acids are important for moisture and elasticity of the hair.

Magnesium and Zinc: Minerals, which support hair health and growth cycles.

"Packed with vitamin E and essential fatty acids, sweet almond oil deeply nourishes the scalp and strengthens hair right from the roots," mentions Dr. Nirupama Parwanda, dermatologist and founder of Zolie Skin Clinic. "Over time, you'll notice less breakage, smoother strands, and a healthy, natural shine. It's one of those simple remedies that actually deliver results."

Almond oil is highly beneficial for hair, mainly because it's packed with nutrients that support hair strength and shine. Its light nature enables it to enter the hair strand, offering deep moisture without leaving a greasy residue.

Adding almond oil into your haircare routine offers a range of advantages, such as:

Locks in Hydration:

The fatty acids fill gaps in the hair strand, minimising dryness and frizz.

Improves Hair Shine:

By smoothing the cuticles almond oil gives hair a healthy, shiny appearance.

Minimises Breakage:

Packed with vitamin E and magnesium, it protects the hair shaft, making it stronger.

Calms Scalp Inflammation:

Its emollient properties soothe a dry, flaky, or itchy scalp.

Boosts Hair Growth:

By strengthening hair strands and minimising breakage, almond oil boosts hair growth.

Fights Frizz:

Smooths hair cuticles, taming unruly strands for a sleek finish.

Reduces Scalp Inflammation:

Soothes itchiness and irritation with anti-inflammatory properties.

Combats Dandruff:

Deeply moisturizes the scalp and reduces flakiness over time.

The adaptability of almond oil means it can be added into almost any hair care routine. Here are the top uses of almond oil for hair:

Scalp Massage Oil: Warm the oil slightly and use your fingertips to massage it gently into the scalp. This boosts blood circulation and enables the nutrients to absorb.

Pre-Shampoo Treatment (Hot Oil Treatment):

For best results, treat almond oil like a pre-shampoo mask. "Warm a small amount between your palms and gently work it through your hair—from the scalp down to the ends. Let it sit for around half an hour before washing it off. This routine helps your hair soak up moisture, leaving it softer and easier to manage after every wash. When applying, don't rush it. A good 5–10 minute massage increases blood flow, which supports healthier hair growth and a happier scalp," adds Dr. Nirupama Parwanda.

Combine almond oil with nourishing ingredients such as yoghurt (for protein), avocado (for deep conditioning), or honey (for added hydration).

Mixed with Carrier Oils:

Mix it with heavier oils like coconut oil or olive oil to craft a deep conditioning blend, which is ideal for very dry or thick hair.

Over-the-counter Shampoos:

You could also add shampoos with almond oil or similar ingredients as an ingredient to your daily haircare routine. The LBP Natural Argan Oil & Lavender Anti-Frizz Shampoo, LBP Onion, Blackseed & Patchouli Shampoo and LBP Onion, Black Seed & Patchouli Hairfall Control Shampoo are expert-approved.

Follow these steps for a scalp and strand treatment using almond oil for hair growth: Step 1: Warm the Oil:

Pour about a couple of tablespoons of oil (adjust for hair length) into a bowl. Slowly warm it by placing the bowl in hot water for a minute.

Step 2: Section Your Hair:

Divide your hair strands into four to six manageable sections. This ensures even application to the scalp.

Step 3: Apply to the Scalp:

Dip your fingertips into the warm oil and massage it directly into your scalp using slow, circular motions for five to 10 minutes. This encourages circulation.

Step 4: Distribute to Strands:

Apply the remaining oil down the length of your hair, paying extra attention to the brittle, dry ends.

Step 5: Wrap and Wait:

Cover your hair with a warm, damp towel or a shower cap. This traps heat, enabling the hair cuticles to open and absorb the oil more deeply.

Step 6: Wash off:

Leave the oil on for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for an intensive treatment. Shampoo and condition as usual, making sure you wash twice if necessary to get rid of all residue.

Almond Oil is very light and easy to absorb, making it a great choice for daily moisturising, shine, and for those with fine or thin hair. It's best used as a quick scalp soother, or to minimise everyday breakage.

Coconut Oil, in contrast, has a very tiny molecular structure, which enables it to penetrate the hair strand deeply. This makes it a better choice for deep conditioning and preventing protein loss from the hair. Coconut oil is best reserved for intensive, pre-shampoo or overnight masks, especially for individuals with very dry, coarse, or thick hair.

There are a few rare side effects of using almond oil to be aware of:

Allergic Reaction: Individuals with a known nut allergy (specifically to almonds) should not use almond oil.

Scalp Buildup: Consistent use without proper shampooing will result in buildup on the scalp, which could clog pores and irritate the skin.

Almond oil's light, nutrient-rich properties makes it a perfect treatment for all hair types. If you have any additional questions or concerns regarding almond oil for haircare, always consult a healthcare professional.

Here are the top questions about using almond oil for haircare answered by the experts:

A: Yes, you can definitely use a few drops daily as a light serum on the ends of your hair. However, full scalp treatments are best limited to one time per week.

A: Almond oil does not consist of any compounds proven to boost the growth cycle. However, by minimising breakage and split ends, it helps maintain your hair's length, enabling it to grow longer than it otherwise might.