Almond Oil Vs. Avocado Oil: Which is Better for Hair?

Almond oil is a popular hair oil with many benefits, but another beneficial oil for hair nutrition and conditioning that only a few people know about is avocado oil. 

Both almond oil and avocado oil have multiple benefits for the hair, and the choice between the two boils down to your hair type, needs, and preferences.

Avocado oil contains monounsaturated fats (1) that allow deep penetration into the scalp and unclog hair follicles, thus boosting hair growth. It has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties that repair and nourish hair. (2) However, it can also irritate sensitive skin.

Almond oil has numerous nutritional perks too and is gentle on sensitive skin. However, people with nut allergies must avoid it.

”Which oil is better?” According to experts, avocado oil is slightly better than almond oil in hair care. However, both these oils have their nutritional elements and benefits. 

Experts also observed that avocado oil is better in terms of hair shaft penetration, whereas almond oil is better for sensitive scalp/hair. 

Continue reading to learn more about almond oil and avocado oil. 

Almond Oil Versus Avocado Oil for Hair: Which Is Better?

According to experts, almond oil and avocado oil do not differ greatly in hair benefits. However, for hair care, avocado oil is slightly better. 

Avocado oil unclogs follicles, boosts hair growth, and provides nourishment and protection. Sweet almond oil adds natural beauty and luster to hair. It maintains hair elasticity, making the hair soft, manageable, strong, and growing. (3)

The fundamental difference between the two is that avocado oil penetrates the deeper layers of the skin, whereas almond oil remains at the skin’s surface. They have individual strengths, but together, they are more powerful.

Almond oil is a lightweight oil (4) that nourishes the hair deeply. It gives the hair a pleasant smell and restores its shine. Diluted almond oil can be used on the hair as well.

Avocado oil is known for its hydrating properties. They deeply moisturize the scalp and hair. Using avocado oil can eliminate issues such as scalp irritation and dandruff. It repairs dry and damaged hair and promotes excellent hair growth. 

Thus, avocado oil is better than almond oil based on hair care benefits and uses. 

Almond Oil Versus Avocado Oil for Hair: The Difference

The following are the differences between almond oil and avocado oil.

1. Smoking point, aroma color, and extraction

Almond oil is extracted from almond kernels (nuts rich in vitamin E, monounsaturated fats, fiber, and protein). (5) It is pale yellow with a light consistency, medium smoke point, and sweet, nutty aroma. (6)

Avocado oil is obtained from the avocado flesh. Avocado is abundant in minerals, vitamins, healthy fats, and antioxidants. (1) Avocado oil is a greenish-yellow oil with a thicker consistency, high smoke point, and mild nutty smell. (7)

2. Moisturization and penetration

Almond oil does not penetrate the hair shaft to moisturize the hair. (3)

Avocado oil penetrates the hair shaft and thus deeply moisturizes and nourishes the hair shaft. 

3. Protection against UV damage

The fatty acids in almond oil contain double bonds that shield the hair against UV radiation that causes structural hair damage. (3)

In avocado oil, the lutein, beta-carotene, antioxidants, and carotenoids protect the hair and scalp from pollutants, UV damage, and other elements. (8)

4. Prevention of breakage and dryness

The richness of fatty acids (omega-6 and omega-3) in almond oil promotes healthy hair growth and more manageable and softer locks. Fatty acids prevent hair breakage and dryness and nourish the hair.

Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant in almond oil that prevents hair damage by free radicals. (9)

Avocado oil contains vitamins A, B5, and E, essential fatty acids, minerals, biotin, and antioxidants (10) that strengthen, repair, and moisturize the hair, seal the hair cuticles, and prevent hair breakage.   

5. Hair growth

Massaging the hair and scalp with almond oil enhances blood circulation to the roots, strengthening and promoting hair growth.

The abundant nutrients, vitamin E, and antioxidants in avocado oil reduce hair fall and boost hair growth. (11)

6. Hair type

Almond oil suits all hair types but is best for damaged/dry hair. 

Avocado oil suits all hair types but is best for damaged and dull hair. 

How to Use Almond Oil on Hair?

Follow these steps to apply almond oil to your hair:

1. Heat almond oil to a lukewarm temperature.
2. Detangle your hair.
3. Gently pour the oil on your scalp and massage it. 
4. Apply the oil to your hair lengths, too.
5. Let it sit for 3–4 hours. 
6. Wash it off using a mild sulfate-free shampoo.

How to Use Avocado Oil on Hair?

Follow these steps to apply avocado oil to your hair:

1. Boil some water in a saucepan.
2. Combine extra virgin coconut and avocado oil in equal parts (3–5 tbsp each) in a glass jar based on your hair length.
3. Place this oil-containing glass jar in a saucepan containing hot water for at least 2 minutes.
4. Let it cool, and check the temperature before application.
5. Gently massage the oil in your hair and cover it up with a warm towel.
6. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes. 
7. Wash it off with a mild sulfate-free shampoo and cool water.
8. Air-dry your hair.   

Side Effects of Avocado Oil

Although avocado oil is generally safe, a few side effects are associated with it:

• If you have a latex allergy, you may develop an allergy to avocado. (12)
• Even if you don’t consume avocado, applying its oil can have side effects, causing discomfort or redness. In such cases, stop using the oil. 

Remember to do a patch test before applying avocado oil. 

Side Effects of Almond Oil

Although almond oil has positive effects, a few side effects are associated with it:

• If you have nut allergies, you can have serious reactions to almond oil. A typical allergy can turn into a severe one. 
• Avoid using pure almond oil on your hair before heat styling, as it increases heat around the hair follicles, resulting in a burned scalp or hair shaft. 

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Final Word

Both avocado oil and almond oil have multiple hair benefits.

The lightweight nature of almond oil nourishes the hair, adds softness and shine to the hair, and prevents hair loss. The hydrating nature of avocado oil repairs damaged hair, moisturizes it, and boosts hair growth. 

You can use either oil based on your hair needs and type, or you can use both oils together for better results. 

Always do a patch test before using any oil to check if you have sensitivities or reactions. 

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