Ingredient
Almond
Benefits
Natural
A staple in cosmetics, the tear-shaped almond is beloved for its moisturising oil, soothing properties and comforting scent.
What are almonds?
Almonds are the seeds of the almond tree, which belongs to the plum family (Prunus). Its fruits share considerable similarities with those of its relatives, such as apricot and peach. These crops flourish in sunny regions, such as the Mediterranean, California, the Middle East, and North Africa. Hiding deep within the soft flesh of the fruit is a hard pit that reveals a tender almond when broken open.
Bittersweet botany
There are two types of almonds: sweet and bitter. Sweet almonds, which grow on the Prunus dulcis tree, are the ones we eat. Their scent is very faint, if there's any. They can be ground, pressed into oil, or blended with water to produce milk. This explains why almond oil is often called 'sweet' almond oil. On the other side, bitter almonds (Prunus amygdalus amara) are not suitable for consumption, but they can be distilled into a fragrant essential oil, renowned in perfumery.
What are the benefits of almonds in cosmetics?
In general, almond-derived products are soothing and conditioning to the skin and hair, as well as being emollient and packed with vitamin E (an antioxidant).
But the benefits also depend on the type of ingredient, of course. For example:
- Almond oil is moisturising.
- Ground almonds gently exfoliate the skin.
- Almond essential oil has a sweet, cherry-like aroma.
- Almond butter is even more moisturising than the oil.
Where does Lush source almonds?
We use a lot of almond-derived products, so don’t hesitate and browse your Lush product’s list of ingredients to click on the ones you want to know more about. And if you like a good selection, here’s one!
If almonds are your thing, you’ll be happy at Lush! We love them too. Why not take a look at our bodycare and skincare ranges to begin with?