Ever since our childhood, we have been told by our mothers to eat almonds to make our memories sharper. But if you have been ignoring these benefits, we have more for you. But did you know almonds can not only help with your brain but have multiple skin benefits as well? Rich in Vitamin E, almonds are versatile food items that can be consumed in many ways but are best when had in the morning.
So, today we break down different benefits of almonds for your skin so you can reap all the gains of adding them to your skincare regime.
Let's take a look at some of the skincare benefits of almonds
1. Rich in antioxidants
One of the benefits of almonds for skin is that they are very rich in antioxidants like Vitamin E, which help prevent oxidative damage to cells by working to remove free radicals caused by UV rays, pollution, and other environmental factors. According to Blatner, one serving, of around 23 almonds contains about 50 percent of the recommended daily value of the vitamin.
Apart from this almonds offer 25%of the daily value of riboflavin and 6% of niacin, the two B vitamins responsible for the maintenance of normal skin.
2. Hyperpigmentation
Another benefit of almonds for skin is hyperpigmentation, also known as dark spots caused by overproduction and irregular distribution of melanin in the skin. When applied topically as a skincare ingredient, the antioxidants slow down the photo-aging process, leading to fewer sun spots and pigmentation. Almonds are also a good source of copper and zinc, which play an essential role in skin pigmentation. Zinc’s inflammatory properties also help in reducing irritation and redness on our skin and help relieve certain skin conditions such as acne, dermatitis, and eczema.
3. Fine lines and hydration
Almonds are also a good source of linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid, that helps prevent skin dryness. For extremely dry skin conditions like atopic eczema, almond oil is also a great recommendation. Another benefit of almonds for skin is they are rich in healthy fats that protect the skin’s lipid barrier, a shield against moisture loss.
For fine lines and wrinkles, a recent research published in the scientific journal Nutrients found that women who ate two ounces of almonds a day had a 16 per cent reduction in wrinkle severity.
4. Natural exfoliation
Almonds have been used for decades to improve skin texture, not only as a cleanser but also as a natural exfoliator due to their slightly coarse texture. Ground almond powder or almond scrub gently removes dead skin cells, unclogging pores and revealing a fresher, more vibrant layer of skin. You can also rub your face with its paste to boost blood circulation making it a great benefit of almond milk for your skin.
With the presence of vitamin D and calcium in almond milk, it is beneficial to treat acne and pimples on the skin.
5. Skin radiance
The almond nut, which grows protected in a soft and green velvet shell, is renowned for its ability to soften and smoothen the skin. As mentioned above, the richness of minerals like zinc, selenium, and almonds improve the glow of your skin. They’re also rich in dietary fibres, which not only help with the digestive system and gut health but also promote better skin health, giving a clear complexion and glowing skin.
Almond milk can be used on the skin to keep it moisturized as it is very gentle and makes an ideal ingredient for those who suffer from sensitivity, or you can even use almond oil for a glowing skin.
6. Dark circles
Dark circles are a result of blood vessels becoming more visible under the eye due to either dilation or skin becoming thin as a result of ageing or moisture loss. Almond oil, renowned for its light texture and high vitamin K content, can be a potent remedy for dark circles as it helps contract the dilated blood vessels. Regular application of almond oil for dark circles helps reduce puffiness due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and lightens the delicate skin around the eyes. The retinol, vitamin E, and vitamin K also help smoothen the under-eye skin without causing any irritation.
7. Skin whitening
Almonds are naturally rich in zinc and magnesium resulting in great balancing of oil production and supporting skin health. This balance results in a cleaner skin tone and can prevent the development of rough skin and other skin ailments. Almonds also contain niacinamide which is a form of vitamin B3 known for its skin-lightening properties. The use of almonds on a daily basis can aid in preventing hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone, promoting a smoother complexion. The vitamin E present in almonds helps in decreasing the appearance of scars and bruises. Almonds' benefits for skin whitening also include a bunch of antioxidants present in almonds that cleanse your skin and remove harmful foreign particles.
Disclaimer: Before incorporating any aforementioned food suggestions into your diet, consult with your family physician or a diet specialist. Individual reactions to different foods can vary significantly, and what may be beneficial for one person could potentially cause adverse effects in another. The information provided above is a compilation of general benefits associated with consumption of particular food and may not apply universally to every body type. Always prioritise personalised medical advice to ensure your specific health needs and dietary restrictions.