The Uses of a Bitter Almond Oil Mask

The Uses of a Bitter Almond Oil Mask
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There are two varieties of almonds: sweet and bitter. While bitter almond oil is toxic if ingested, it can be used in combination with sweet almond oil in skin care preparations, including masks. Always follow label directions carefully when using any cosmetic preparations, and test a small patch of skin for any negative reactions before using the product on a larger area.

Hydration

An almond oil mask can help hydrate and moisturize the skin to minimize the appearance of fine lines and improve the texture of dry skin. St. Botanica, a British cosmetics company, suggests that daily use of almond oil can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines as much as 80 percent, while researcher Zeeshan Ahmad reports that almond oil is a traditional Greek, Chinese and Ayurvedic remedy for dry skin.

Minimize Imperfections

A mask containing almond oil may help minimize imperfections such as scarring. Zeeshan Ahmad reports anecdotal evidence of almond oil reducing post-surgical scarring and suggests that further studies be made into this use.

Reduce Inflammation

Masks containing bitter almond oil can help reduce inflammation and puffiness. Almond oil is sometimes applied under the eye to reduce dark circles and puffiness, but take care when applying a mask near the delicate skin of the eye area.

References

Article reviewed by Holland Hammond Last updated on: May 11, 2010

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