Almond Oil For Baby: 10 Almond Oil Benefits & Guide On How to Massage a Baby?
Massaging your baby with oil is a tradition as old as time in India. Parent throughout generations has observed benefits oil massages can have on babies. But which oil should you use? What precautions should you take? These are some of the questions we will answer in this post.
What Is Almond Oil?
Almond oil is a light textured oil that is extracted from almonds. There are two kinds of almond oils; bitter and sweet. Sweet almond oil is the preferred choice for most parents for massaging their babies. Here are some characteristics of sweet almond oil that make it such a popular choice.
Benefits Of Almond Oil For You Baby
Natural Emollient
Almond oil is rich in oleic and linoleic acids which make a very good natural moisturizing agent. Hence, by massaging your baby with almond oil your baby will have a soft skin. Almond oil has benefits for face as well. You can apply it on your baby’s face carefully to make their skin softer.
Doesn’t Clog Pores
Almond oil is light and hence doesn’t clog your baby’s pores. Therefore, you can use it before or after giving your baby a bath.
Repairs Dry Skin
There are many benefits of Almond oil for your skin. Fatty acids and vitamins A and E in almond oil are especially beneficial in repairing dry skin.
Removes Cradle Cap
Sometimes babies develop cradle cap (yellow or brown scales on the head or other body parts). Almond oil is extremely effective in treating cradle cap and helps fight dandruff as well.
Reduces Indigestion
Massaging your baby’s tummy with almond oil reduces the chances of indigestion.
Relaxes Your Baby
An almond oil massage or massages, in general, will help your baby relax. By massaging your baby’s tired limbs and body you improve blood circulation. Your baby will not only be more relaxed but will also develop strong muscles.
Improves Bone Health
Almond oil is rich in Vitamin D and calcium, both of which are essential for strong bones. Almond oil will also nourish your baby’s nervous system.
Protects Your Baby From Rashes
Almond oil will protect your baby from developing rashes. The oil is edible and hence, it can be applied to chapped or cracked lips to make them soft again.
Strengthens Your Bond With The Baby
When you massage your baby regularly, you will develop a closer bond with your baby. This can do wonders for your relationship and bring you and your baby closer.
Evens Skin Tone
Sensitive baby skin can be prone to blemishes and uneven skin tone. The Vitamin E in almond oil fixes these problems.
Properties Of Sweet Almond Oil
- It is a rich source of Vitamins (A, D, E, B1, B2, B6)
- It also has fatty acids and minerals (zinc, calcium, potassium, etc.)
- Almond oil is very light and thin. Hence, it is easy to spread
- Your body absorbs almond oil very effectively
- It has a pleasant smell
- Edible and sweet in taste
- Less greasy
- Rich in nutrients
How To Apply Almond Oil To Your Baby
Step 1 – Place a clean folded towel on your lap
Step 2 – Place your baby on top of the towel
Step 3 – Take a few drops of almond oil and massage your baby’s scalp gently
Step 4 – Rub your hands to make them warm before you massage the baby’s skin
Step 5 – Start with your baby’s shoulders and work your way gently down the arm
Step 6 – Move on to the legs, chest and belly
Step 7 – Turn your baby over to massage the baby’s back
Step 8 – Wipe your hands before picking up your baby
Is It Safe To Massage Your Baby With Almond Oil?
Almond oil is completely natural and safe. However, you must still exercise some caution and take these precautions.
- If your baby is allergic to nuts, consult a doctor before using almond oil to massage your baby
- When you start massaging your baby for the first time, it is best to do a patch test. Apply a couple of drops on a small patch. If no rashes show up, you are good to go
- Make sure almond oil doesn’t enter your baby’s eyes, navel, nostrils or ears
- Remember to always buy quality products and check the label and expiry date
- Make sure to wipe your hands before you begin
- Avoid using excess oil
FAQs
Q. Can I massage my baby with almond oil after a bath?
A. Yes, you can. When you wash off the oil during the bath, it will not be able to moisturize the skin. However, after the bath, Almond oil is effectively absorbed into the skin and prevents dryness.
Q. Does massaging a baby with sweet almond oil create heat in the body?
A. When used in limited quantity, it does not heat up the body. Using sweet almond oil also helps in indigestion and upset stomach when gently massaged on the tummy.
Q. Which is the best baby massage oil?
A. You can use coconut oil (used in the summer), mustard oil, and sweet almond oil for baby body massage as it moisturizes the skin and makes it smooth. Sesame oil is also good as it is light and makes your baby comfortable.
Q. What is the best baby hair oil?
A. You can use coconut oil, but if you want branded hair oils, then go for Johnson & Johnson baby hair oil, omveda, distil baby hair oil and many others. massage the mentioned hair oil directly on the baby’s scalp.
