Where it comes to glowing, healthy skin, almonds have long been a beauty secret relied upon by women for centuries. From grandma's comforting glass of almond milk recommendation to beauty companies bottling almond oil into serums, this unassuming nut has solidified its status as a skin superfood. But is all of this tradition and is any of it science?
In an exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, we asked the same question to our expert, Dr Sanjeev Gulati, Department of Dermatology, Sharda Hospital - Noida, helped us break the shell and uncover the facts. Rea ahead to know.
Link Between Almonds and Skin Health
Almonds are chock-full of skin-nourishing nutrients, making them a natural beauty booster from the inside out:
- Vitamin E Superstar: Almonds are among the richest natural sources of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that battles free radicals, slows down skin ageing, and guards against sun damage.
- Healthy Fats for Hydration: Their monounsaturated fatty acids keep your skin's own lipid barrier healthy, leaving it soft, supple, and moisturized.
- Skin-Healing Minerals: Almonds' magnesium, zinc, and copper are involved in collagen formation, skin rejuvenation, and inflammation reduction.
- Antioxidant Boost: Almonds' polyphenols maintain the overall health of the skin and promote even-toned skin.
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How Almonds Make Your Skin Glow
Dr Gulati explained a few ways almonds make our skin glow. These may include:
- Hydration from the Inside Out: Consume almonds regularly to trap moisture within cells of the skin, producing a plump, healthy glow.
- Brightening Effect: Vitamin E wards off oxidative stress and sun harm, combating dullness and ensuring even skin tone.
- Less Fine Lines: The antioxidants and healthy fats combination maintains collagen structure, causing skin to appear more taut.
- Better Skin Texture: Almond nutrients repair damaged skin and calm inflammation, resulting in smoother and healthier skin.
Additionally, according to a 2021 study in Nutrients, women who consumed almonds every day for 16 weeks experienced a significant decrease in wrinkle severity and pigmentation compared to the control group who didn't. Scientists credited the benefits to vitamin E and healthy fats in almonds that feed skin from the inside out.
Best Ways to Eat Almonds for Skin Glow
Soaked Almonds in the Morning: Soak five to seven almonds overnight, skin them, and consume them in the morning for best nutrient absorption.
- An almond milk smoothie: Combine almonds with papaya or berries for an antioxidant-packed skin drink.
- Almond Butter on Whole Grain Toast: Tasty, nutrition-dense breakfast option.
- Raw Almonds for Snacking: Have a handful on hand to conquer afternoon hunger without sugar crashes.
Topical Almond Goodness
While consuming almonds is the most effective way to fuel your skin from inside, external almond oil can:
- Nourish dry skin intensely
- Fade away dark circles under the eyes
- Enhance skin elasticity with constant massaging
How Much Is Too Much?
Moderation. Consuming about 20–23 almonds per day (one ounce) is sufficient to benefit the skin without added calories.
Bottomline
Almonds can actually make your skin shine—due to their nutritional profile that benefits both inside and out. Combined with a healthy diet, hydration, and sun protection, they can be your skin's best friend on the quest for radiant longevity.