In a nutshell: Almonds might be the most revered seed ever. Contrary to popular belief, they're actually a fruit seed, not a nut. Could you imagine a world without almond butter or almond milk? Neither can we. But aside from satisfying our health-conscious taste buds, the tiny superfood is also a super underrated source of unlimited hair benefits. Packed with loads of healthy fats, fiber, protein, magnesium, and vitamin E, almonds (and more specifically, the oils in almonds) are the hair savers you've been searching for all along.
Ashwin Sokke is the co-founder of WOW Skin Science, a 100 percent vegan hair care, skincare, face, and body grooming essentials brand born in India.
In health speak, almonds are known to help lower blood sugar levels, reduce blood pressure, and lower cholesterol levels when ingested as a part of your daily diet. But, as it turns out, applying it topically to hair boasts its own advantages. Ashwin Sokke, co-founder of WOW Skin Science, shares some of them are them below:
Sokke tells us, “This nourishing oil obtained from sweet almonds is rich in vitamin B7, commonly known as biotin." When applied topically, biotin can help strengthen stands and promote new and faster hair growth.
Sun damage (UVA and UVB rays) can cause dry and brittle strands, broken or split ends, thinning, and frizziness. Sokke says, "Almond oil makes hair shiny, stronger, frizz-free, and protects against UV radiation."
"Almond oil naturally boasts antibacterial and antifungal properties," explains Sokke, "making it effective against pesky dandruff and other scalp conditions."
If your hair looks dull and dehydrated lately, it's time to bust out the almond oil. When applied topically, the thick and moisturizing cocktail of vitamins coats the hair and instantly imparts a glossy shine.
Almond oil is used as a hero ingredient in hair products, from shampoos to scalp scrubs, but if you happen to have a bottle of pure almond oil hiding in your pantry, here are some ways to incorporate it into your hair routine.
By far the simplest way to add it to your routine, using it as a hair oil can add an undeniable luster to hair in seconds. Sokke recommends distributing a couple of drops from roots to ends of dry or damp hair for a "boost of hydration and healthier looking hair."
Sokke tells us you can apply the oil as the first step in a luxurious full scalp massage. Scalp massages generally relieve tension and stimulate hair growth, but the added benefits of almond oil are great for softening strands and removing traces of dandruff. Try using a scalp massager to heighten the experience.
With the addition of a base oil (like coconut oil or olive oil), almond oil can make for a super nourishing hair mask. Create a mixture (about two parts base oil with one part almond oil) and apply it throughout before letting it sit for 15-20 minutes. Tip: If your scalp is typically greasy, apply your oil treatment to the ends only.
Sokke assures, "Almond oil works for all hair types, but is especially great for treating damaged and frizzy hair." Just be sure to adjust quantities depending on your hair type. If you have thin hair, a little will go a long way. In any case, start by applying just a drop or two to your hair's mid-lengths and ends and apply more and go closer to the roots as needed.
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