Sweet Almond Oil (BP73)

Sweet Almond Oil (BP73)

When it comes to natural skincare, few ingredients boast the timeless reputation of Sweet Almond oil (Prunus amygdalus dulcis oil).

Valued for centuries by Mediterranean civilisations as both a nutrient-dense food resource and a beauty ritual staple, this versatile botanical oil continues to be a favorite among modern dermatologists, aromatherapists, and DIY skincare enthusiasts alike.

Whether you are looking to soothe sensitive patches, combat the signs of aging, or find the perfect carrier oil for aromatherapy, our Sweet Almond oil offers a wealth of skincare benefits.

What does BP73 mean?

This sweet almond oil has been cold-pressed from almond kernels and then refined according to the stringent British Pharmacopia standard (BP73). This serves to remove impurites, improve shelf life and reduce the intensity of the natural odour. In this process the less heat stable compounds of the oil, such as volatie antioxidants, polyphenols and trace minerals, are lost.

However, the more heat stable compounds such as the essential fatty acids are retained so the oil remains highly effective as a stable and protective emollient. This represents a more economic version than our cold-pressed organic Sweet Almond Oil and more attractive when a larger amounts, or a more neutral aroma, is needed such as for whole body massage, or as a make-up remover.

Key Benefits for Skin and Hair:

1. Deep Moisturization: The fatty acid profile remains intact, making it an excellent barrier for preventing moisture loss in skin and hair.

2. Texture & Absorption:  The refined oil is lightweight, non-greasy, and easily absorbed - ideal for whole body massage

3. Stability: Heat stable and neutral aroma make it suitable for formulating.

4. Safe for sensitive skin: The removal of trace proteins and impurities makes the oil much more consistent and safer for sensitive skin (see also Precautions below)

Practical Ways to Use Sweet Almond Oil (BP73):

As a daily moisturiser -  apply a few drops directly to damp skin after a shower to seal in moisture. 

Massage - use it on its own or mix a few drops of your favorite essential oils to create a custom aromatherapy blend. 

Makeup Remover - massage gently over the face to break down stubborn cosmetic residue, then wipe clean with a warm cloth. 

Hair & Scalp Care - work a small amount through hair ends to prevent splitting, or massage into the scalp to relieve dryness. 

Options:

Our Sweet Almond Oil (BP73) is available in 250ml, 500m, 1 litre, 5kg and 25kg units. 

The smaller units are packed in UV-protective brown PET bottles, while the 5kg and 25kg units are packed in jerry cans, all with tamper-proof caps to keep the oil safe and stable in transit.

Precautions:

Although this version of sweet almond oil has been refined to remove impurities such as proteins, small allergenic traces may remain. As a precaution it should therefore be avoided by people with tree nut allergies.  As an alternative we recommend our cold-pressed organic Sunflower oil, or cold-pressed organic Safflower oil. 

This oil is intended for cosmetic use only and is not intended for use in food.

Technical Information for professional formulators

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Technical Information - Sweet Almond Oil (BP73)

Regulatory & Product Specifications

• INCI Name: Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil
• CAS Number: Not listed
• EINECS Number: Not listed
• Extraction Method: Cold-pressed from the ripe kernels then refined to BP73 standards to remove any natural odor and improve shelf life.
• Source: 100% pure Sweet Almond Kernels
• Appearance: Clear, pale yellow to golden liquid
• Odor: Neutral

Typical Fatty Acid Profile (%)

Sweet Almond Oil is predominantly composed of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids:

Physicochemical Properties

• Specific Gravity (at 20°C): 0.911 - 0.920 g/ cm3
• Refractive Index (at 20°C): 1.467 - 1.473
• Saponification Value: 185 - 195  mg KOH /g
• Peroxide Value: < 10.0 meq O2/ kg 
• Acid Value: < 2.0 mg KOH /g
• Iodine Value: 95 - 105 g I2 /100g
• Solubility: Soluble in cosmetic esters and fixed oils; insoluble in water and alcohol.

Formulation & Storage Guidelines

Comedogenic Rating: 2 (moderately low). It is widely tolerated by most skin types and is excellent for body care, creams, lotions, and anhydrous balms.

• Recommended Usage Levels: 1% to 100% depending on the application (can be used neat).
• Thermal Stability: Avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures (>60C) during processing to prevent undue oxidation
• Shelf Life & Storage: 24 months from the date of manufacture when stored properly. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent oxidation.