Badam oil, usually referred to as almond oil, has been a beauty secret used by many cultures for centuries. India is particularly well known for using badam oil for scalp massage, beauty treatments and in Ayurveda, an alternative health care modality that is centuries old. According to the National Institutes of Health or NIH, the average adult has 5 million hairs on his body. Healthy hair grows at an average of 1/2 inch each month. Regardless of how we care for our hair, most hair strands fall out after six years, only to be replaced by new hair. Though many claim badam oil as their secret to thicker, stronger or more beautiful hair, more research is needed to support these claims.
Badam Oil
Badam oil was as popular in ancient cultures as it is today in the modern spa environment. In ancient times, Chinese, Indian and Greco-Persian schools taught the benefits of badam oil for the treatment of conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Badam oil is often chosen for beauty treatments that include head and scalp massage because of its ability to improve complexion and overall skin tone by smoothing and rejuvenating the skin. This is particularly helpful in providing relief for those with a dry and itchy scalp, says the NIH. Badam oil is a light oil that is not sticky, so it can be used topically as a moisturizer or for massage. It's effective on its own or can be combined with other essential oils, such as lavender, for enhanced relaxation, according to Lindisima.com.
Head Massage
Badam oil is most often used for head and body massage in spas. It's suitable for even the most sensitive skin types. This oil is light in texture, making it easy to work with, and has a very light, pleasant smell. Though it is possible in some spas and salons to schedule a scalp massage only, usually head massage is combined with a full body massage at a spa. However, for self application at home, badam oil is easily found labeled as almond oil at a health food or whole food store.
Scalp massage with badam oil improves the feeling of your skin and hair and is very relaxing. Many professional massage therapists agree that their clients consider the scalp massage the best part of their treatment. At a spa, your therapist usually explains the treatment and the oil she uses. If you specifically want badam oil used for your head massage, ask for it when booking your treatment.
Massage techniques vary by therapist. However, scalp massage is usually performed by adding a small amount of the oil into the therapist's hands and slowly working the scalp and hair from one side to the other until the entire head has been covered. Your therapist uses a variety of pressure points and massage strokes to apply the oil and provide a relaxing and enjoyable experience. At the end of the treatment, you can wash the oil out right away or leave it in for awhile longer for the best results. Your hair and scalp may feel oily after the treatment, but badam oil is light and natural and washes out of the hair easily without causing damage. In fact, in India it's popular to even wash the hair using badam oil to deeply moisturize the hair and prevent breakage, according to India Parenting.
Other Uses for Badam Oil
Almonds and their oil have a long list of health benefits that extend beyond hair and scalp health and beauty. According the the National Institutes of Health, almond oil has anti-inflammatory, immunity-boosting and anti-hepatotoxicity properties. It has also been linked to better digestion, decreased gastrointestinal issues, faster healing of scars, reduced risk of colon cancer and numerous cardiovascular benefits, which include raising good cholesterol and lowering bad cholesterol, the NIH says. Badam oil is safe to consume because it's made of almonds, which are safe to eat unless you have an allergy. Almonds and their oil contain vitamins like A, B and E. Eating a few almonds daily is sufficient for the increased health benefits.
Safety
Badam oil is made of almonds. Anyone allergic to almonds should avoid badam oil or use it with caution. Most allergic reactions require ingestion of the allergen, so in most cases the topical use of the oil is safe. However, if you are receiving a head massage with badam oil and you think you're having an allergic reaction, tell the therapist right away. It's also important to note that badam oil is often used as a carrier oil in many spas and may be mixed with Wheatgerm oil to give it a longer shelf life. This means it is the primary ingredient in the oil, which may also include other aromatherpy oils. Ask your therapist about the ingredients in your oil before your massage begins.
Considerations
Ask your doctor if head massage is right for you. If you are currently seeing a dermatologist for the treatment of any skin condition, especially if your scalp is affected, get your doctor's approval before attempting any spa, beauty salon or home treatments using badam oil. See a licensed practitioner of massage or hair care for best and safest results. Remember, regardless of how well scalp massage may work for you if you have a dry skin condition, it's not an appropriate substitute for the care provided by your doctor.
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