How we scored it
Where it comes from
Dominant feedstock is mechanically pressed or solvent-extracted sweet almond kernels (Prunus amygdalus var. dulcis). No synthetic alternative route exists for this botanical fixed oil.
Sweet almond oil is obtained through the mechanical pressing of the almond kernels. This process is typically carried out at low temperatures to preserve the oil's quality and prevent degradation of its beneficial components. The primary method involves cold pressing, where the kernels are ground into a paste, and then the oil is extracted using hydraulic or screw presses.
Following the initial pressing, the crude oil may undergo further purification steps to remove impurities and achieve cosmetic-grade standards. These steps can include filtration to remove solid particles and sometimes a mild refining process, which might involve degumming (removing phospholipids) or bleaching (using natural clays to remove pigments) if a lighter color or odor is desired. However, for high-quality cosmetic grades, minimal processing is preferred to retain the natural composition and properties of the oil.
The resulting oil is a complex mixture of triglycerides, primarily composed of oleic acid (an omega-9 monounsaturated fatty acid), linoleic acid (an omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid), and smaller amounts of palmitic acid and stearic acid. It also contains natural antioxidants like vitamin E (tocopherols) and phytosterols, which contribute to its stability and skin benefits.
In plain English
Sweet almond oil is a popular natural ingredient derived from the seeds of almond trees. It's extracted by simply pressing the almonds, much like how olive oil is made from olives. This gentle process ensures that the oil retains its natural goodness, making it a favorite for skincare products.
Because it comes directly from a plant, sweet almond oil is considered 100% natural and renewable. It's packed with beneficial compounds like fatty acids and vitamin E, which help to soften, smooth, and moisturize the skin. Its light texture allows it to be easily absorbed, leaving the skin feeling nourished without a greasy residue.
CosIng definition: Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil is the fixed oil obtained from the ripe seed kernel of the Sweet Almond Tree, Prunus amygdalus var. dulcis, Rosaceae
References
- 1ISO 16128-1:2016 and ISO 16128-2:2017 — Guidelines on technical definitions and criteria for natural and organic cosmetic ingredients and products. ISO, Geneva.
- 2SWEET ALMOND OIL. CosIng — European Commission cosmetic ingredient database. ec.europa.eu/cosing ↗
- 3PRUNUS AMYGDALUS DULCIS OIL. CosIng u2014 European Commission database for information on cosmetic substances and ingredients. https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/search?search=PRUNUS%20AMYGDALUS%20DULCIS%20OIL