Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream

Discovering the Soothing Benefits of Almond Massage Cream

Almond oil is known for its incredibly nourishing and hydrating properties. When used topically on skin, it provides a boost of moisture and leaves you feeling soft and supple. So it’s no surprise that almond oil is a key ingredient in one of the most popular massage creams on the market – Queen Helene’s Almond Massage Cream.

As someone who loves a good at-home massage, whether from my partner or my own hands, I’m always on the lookout for massage creams that absorb well into my skin and provide next-level hydration. My skin tends to run on the drier side, so having an ultra-rich cream that doesn’t feel greasy is super important. Not to mention a delicious, calming scent helps set the mood for relaxation.

After hearing rave reviews from friends and beauty bloggers I follow, I decided it was high time to try this beloved drugstore classic for myself. But before purchasing a product, I like to do thorough research to make sure it will live up to the hype.

So if you’re also interested in the amazing pampering potential of Queen Helene’s Almond Massage Cream, read on for my complete buying guide. I’ll be sharing everything you need to know, from key product details to expert tips for using this soothing cream. Let’s get to the bottom of what makes this massage cream so beloved!

What is Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream?

Queen Helene has been making natural hair and skincare products since the 1930s. They focus on creating high quality, affordable personal care products, and the Almond Massage Cream has become one of their most iconic offerings.

The Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream is an ultra-rich body cream that contains almond oil, cocoa butter, and vitamins A, D, and E. It goes on smoothly and leaves skin feeling hydrated and silky soft. The almond scent provides an aromatherapy experience while applying it.

This massage cream is super versatile – you can use it for massages, as an everyday body moisturizer, or even as a face cream. It’s safe for all skin types including sensitive skin. The formula is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores.

Queen Helene also aims to create cruelty-free products, so this massage cream is not tested on animals. It’s free of common irritants like mineral oil, lanolin, and artificial fragrances. Overall it delivers serious moisturization with a pure, clean formula.

Key Benefits of Using Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream

1. Deeply moisturizes and nourishes skin

The hero ingredients in Almond Massage Cream like almond oil, cocoa butter, and vitamins A, D and E work together to provide next-level hydration. It leaves skin feeling soft and smooth, never greasy.

The almond oil is rich in vitamins and essential fatty acids that soak into skin, improving moisture retention. Massaging this cream in helps these nourishing ingredients penetrate even deeper.

2. Delivers soothing aromatherapy

The light almond fragrance comes from pure almond oil, not artificial fragrances. As you massage the cream in, you’ll be enveloped in the calming, nutty aroma of almonds.

Inhaling this natural scent activates your sense of smell, which is strongly tied to areas of the brain that control stress, emotion, and memories. The relaxing almond aroma helps set the tone for a soothing, spa-like massage experience.

3. Ideal for massages, hydrating dry skin, and more

This cream is incredibly versatile! Use it during massages with a partner or solo self-massage session. Apply it all over as a daily body moisturizer, focusing on dry areas like knees and elbows.

Or use it on your face as a moisturizing night cream. The rich formula absorbs well so you don’t have to worry about clogged pores. It’s gentle enough even for delicate eye area skin.

4. Affordable price point

For a cream that contains high quality ingredients like almond oil and cocoa butter, Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream is very reasonably priced. An 8 oz jar costs around $6 to $10.

For an indulgent product that makes your skin feel amazing, this is an incredible value compared to luxury brand body creams. The formula delivers serious hydration without the premium price tag.

How to Use Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream

One of the great things about this massage cream is how versatile it is. Here are some of my favorite ways to use it:

Full Body Massages

Scoop out a quarter size amount of cream per body part you want to massage – arms, legs, back, etc. Warm the cream between your hands first so it easily glides onto skin. Have your partner or use your own hands to gently massage the cream all over, using circular motions to help it penetrate deeply. The experience is even more blissful if you focus on deep breathing during the massage.

Targeted Body Massages

Apply a smaller amount of cream to specific areas that need some TLC, like sore muscles or dry skin patches. Really take time to massage it in thoroughly. The concentrated attention combined with the nourishing formula will help those body parts feel relief. Love using it on my feet after a long day!

Facial Moisturizer

After cleansing, scoop out a dime size amount and gently massage it all over your face, including delicate areas like around the eyes. The rich cream absorbs well and doesn’t feel greasy. Wake up to soft, supple skin. It’s gentle enough to use day or night.

Dry Hands and Cuticles

Massage the cream into your hands to moisturize dry, cracked skin. Also work it into nail cuticles to soften and condition. The vitamin E is especially helpful for protecting hands from environmental damage.

Shaving Cream

Apply a thin layer before shaving for a smooth glide! The creamy formula helps lubricate skin and makes it easier to get a close shave without irritation. Leaves skin ultra soft and moisturized after rinsing it off.

Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream Benefits for Skin

The nourishing ingredients in this cream provide targeted skincare benefits that improve the look and feel of your skin.

Alleviates Dry, Flaky Skin

Dry skin is no match for the mega-hydrating powers of sweet almond oil. Chock full of fatty acids and vitamins A, E, D, and B, it helps bind moisture to the skin and prevents transepidermal water loss. Your parched skin soaks it right up for lasting relief.

Cocoa butter provides another dose of intense hydration while smoothing skin texture. Its natural antioxidants like vitamin E also protect against environmental damage that can worsen dryness.

Soothes Skin Conditions Like Eczema

The anti-inflammatory properties of almond oil make this cream helpful for calming irritated, inflamed skin issues like eczema. Gently massaging it in provides hydration and creates a protective barrier. It also imparts a light pleasant scent rather than a medicinal odor.

Anti-Aging Effects

Vitamins A and E are both powerhouse anti-aging ingredients. Vitamin A (retinol) boosts collagen production to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin E neutralizes free radicals to prevent signs of premature aging.

Improves Skin Elasticity

Applying this cream regularly improves moisture retention and skin elasticity over time. The rich formula keeps your skin’s lipid barrier intact and better able to retain hydration. Your skin will feel firmer and more toned.

Softens Rough, Cracked Areas

Slather this cream on rough heels, elbows and knees to soften and smooth skin texture. The emollient ingredients like cocoa and shea butter help minimize the appearance of cracks. Retinol also helps accelerate cell turnover to reveal newer skin.

Is Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream Good For Face?

Yes, this cream is gentle enough to use on the face! It provides serious hydration without clogging pores, making it a great face massage cream or nightly moisturizer.

The formula sinks into skin nicely – I don’t find it to be greasy or heavy at all. It also doesn’t have an overpowering scent. I love massaging it into my face as part of my bedtime routine.

It’s soothing enough to use around delicate eye skin too. When I wake up, my skin looks plump and dewy. I highly recommend keeping a jar on hand to multi-task as a face cream!

Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream Ingredients

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:

• Sweet almond oil – softens, nourishes, and hydrates skin while providing aromatherapy benefits
• Beeswax – acts as a thickening agent and emulsifier to give the cream its rich texture
• Cocoa butter – moisturizes and conditions skin while smoothing texture
• Vitamin A – powerful antioxidant that stimulates collagen production and cell turnover
• Vitamin D – helps repair skin barrier function and reduces inflammation
• Vitamin E – neutralizes damage from free radicals and protects skin’s lipid barrier
• Apricot kernel oil – softens, moisturizes, and rejuvenates skin with omega fatty acids
• Shea butter – intensively hydrates and locks in moisture with vitamins A and E

The formula is free of parabens, mineral oil, lanolin, and phthalates. It’s also cruelty-free and not tested on animals.

Does Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream Have a Strong Scent?

The almond scent in this cream comes from pure sweet almond oil rather than artificial fragrances. In my experience, it’s a very light nutty aroma that I find calming. But it fades shortly after applying and doesn’t linger strongly on skin.

Some customer reviews do mention the scent being a little overpowering at first. But I wouldn’t describe it as super pungent myself, especially once it starts absorbing into your skin. If you’re sensitive to scents, I’d recommend doing a patch test first before massaging it all over. But overall it has a pretty mild almond fragrance.

Is Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream Greasy?

Despite being an ultra-rich cream, the Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream absorbs surprisingly well into skin. The texture feels luxuriously creamy as you apply it, but it doesn’t sit heavily on top of skin after massaging it in.

I find it provides serious moisturization without any greasy residue. My skin just feels soft and silky smooth once it absorbs. However, everyone’s skin is a little different when it comes to sensitivity to thicker creams.

I’d recommend starting with a small amount and building up if you need more hydration. A little goes a long way since it spreads nicely. The creamy texture makes it perfect for massages but it shouldn’t feel too slick once it soaks in.

What Skin Types Should Use Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream?

This versatile cream is gentle enough for all skin types. But it’s especially great for those with very dry skin that needs an extra hydration boost.

Dry and mature skin will love how nourishing yet non-greasy the formula feels. The anti-aging vitamins rejuvenate while the emollient oils provide intense moisture therapy.

Sensitive skin types can also use this cream with confidence since it’s free of common irritants. The soothing almond oil and vitamins are gentle enough even if your skin is easily red or inflamed.

Combination and oily skin can benefit from this cream too! Use it as your nighttime facial moisturizer – the rich formula won’t clog pores but gives skin an extra drink of hydration. Just avoid applying it during the day if your skin runs more oily.

Normal skin will enjoy this as a soothing massage cream or basic body moisturizer. The vitamins help keep your skin healthy and balanced. Use it head to toe!

This cream works for all skin tones as well. The white cream rubs in translucent once massaged into skin.

Does Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream Help With Muscle Relief?

While this cream isn’t medicated or marketed specifically for pain relief, the hydrating ingredients can help soothe sore, overworked muscle areas when massaged in.

Gently massaging tense areas helps stimulate blood flow and loosen tight fascia beneath the skin. The almond oil is also rich in magnesium, which helps muscles feel more relaxed.

Pair massage cream with rest, ice/heat therapy, and gentle stretches for the best muscle relief results. But this cream definitely provides a nourishing touch to tired, achy bodies.

Can You Use Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream On Your Face?

Yes, this massage cream doubles as an amazing facial moisturizer! It provides nourishing hydration without clogging pores, so it’s safe to use on your face.

I love applying a thin layer all over as the last step of my nighttime skincare routine. It locks in serums while keeping dry patches at bay. After cleansing and toning, massage it gently over damp skin.

You can also use it as a nourishing eye cream. The formula is rich yet gentle enough for the delicate eye area. Just don’t rub too vigorously around your eyes. Let it soak in so you wake up with soft, supple skin.

It’s gentle enough to use during the day too if your skin needs an extra boost of moisture. But those with more oily skin may prefer to just use it at night.

Where To Buy Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream

One of the best parts about this cream is that it’s budget-friendly and available at most drugstores! Here are some places you can find it:

• Walmart – $5 for 8 oz jar
• Target – $6 for 8 oz jar
• CVS – $8 for 8 oz jar
• Walgreens – $7 for 8 oz jar
• Rite Aid – $6 for 8 oz jar
• Amazon – $9 for pack of 2 x 8 oz jars

You can also find it at some grocery stores like Kroger or regional chains that have a beauty section. Make sure to check the hair care or moisturizer aisle – not where massage oils are shelved.

Natural food stores like Sprouts or Whole Foods may also carry this cream. But pharmacy retailers tend to have the best availability and prices.

How Much Does Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream Cost?

An 8 oz jar of Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream typically costs between $5 – $10 at drugstores. The MSRP direct from the manufacturer is $6.99 for an 8 oz container.

Here are some typical price points:

• Walmart – $5
• Target – $6
• Amazon – $9 for 2 pack
• CVS – $8
• Walgreens – $7

Considering how luxurious the formula feels on skin, this is an amazing value! The ingredients contain almond oil, cocoa butter and various vitamins that work wonders at hydrating all skin types.

For a high quality cream with premium ingredients, you can’t beat the price tag. It’s much more affordable than department store or spa massage creams.

Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream Reviews

This massage cream earns consistently positive reviews for its versatility and nourishing formula. Here’s what reviewers are saying:

• “This cream is amazing for dry skin. A little goes a long way and it leaves you so moisturized.”
• “I use this on my face every night. My skin feels so soft when I wake up without any greasy residue.”
• “Great for massages with my partner. Leaves my skin smooth and glowing, not slick.”
• “The light almond scent is so relaxing. I love pampering myself with a self-massage using this cream.”
• “Doubles as an awesome thick night cream at a fraction of the price of fancy brands.”
• “This helped my eczema prone skin. It soothes irritation and is so hydrating.”
• “Been using it for years and nothing compares at hydrating my skin top to bottom.”

Overall it consistently earns 4+ stars for being an affordably priced, deeply moisturizing all-purpose cream. Both skincare newbies and experts love the simplicity and effectiveness of the formula.

Is Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream Cruelty-Free?

Queen Helene aims to create cruelty-free products that are not tested on animals. Their website states:

“We do not conduct, commission, or pay for animal testing. Queen Helene® products proudly carry the Leaping Bunny logo, which certifies that no new animal testing is used in any phase of product development.”

They are certified by Leaping Bunny as a cruelty-free brand. However, it’s important to note their products are made in facilities that may also process ingredients that have been tested on animals by third parties.

So for those who require 100% vegan/cruelty-free production, this brand isn’t fully compatible. But Queen Helene does avoid newly animal testing their own finished products which is a step in the right direction for more ethical options.

Is Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream Vegan?

No, this particular cream is not vegan as it contains beeswax. Beeswax is a common thickening agent used in skin creams.

For a 100% vegan massage cream option, try Queen Helene’s Cocoa Butter Massage Cream. It has a similar ultra-hydrating formula without the beeswax.

In general, Queen Helene products are not entirely vegan but they offer some dairy-free and vegan alternatives like their oatmeal scrubs and cocoa butter creams. Just check the ingredients list since many contain beeswax or lanolin.

Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream vs Other Brands

How does Queen Helene’s formula compare to competitors? Here’s a quick breakdown:

Vs The Body Shop Almond Milk & Honey Body Butter: very similar formulas but Queen Helene is richer. Both absorb well without greasiness. The Body Shop has a slightly stronger almond scent. Queen Helene provides better value.

Vs Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion: Aveeno is lighter and better for everyday use. Queen Helene provides more intensive moisturizing benefits with richer oils/butters for massages or very dry skin.

Vs Bath & Body Works body creams: Queen Helene has simpler, cleaner ingredients by comparison. The fragrance is much milder. B&BW creams feel more silicone-heavy. But Queen Helene doesn’t have all the yummy scents.

Vs L’Occitane Almond Supple Skin Oil: L’Occitane feels more lightweight and better for layering under creams. Queen Helene offers richer moisturizing effects as a cream. L’Occitane’s scent is fairly strong.

Overall Queen Helene holds its own against far more expensive brands. Unless you require fancy scents, this simple formulated cream nourishes skin incredibly well.

Does Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream Absorb Well?

Yes, even though it has an ultra-rich creamy texture, this massage cream absorbs surprisingly fast into skin without any greasy residue.

The key is massaging it in thoroughly so the skin can soak up all the hydrating oils, butters, and vitamins. I find it leaves my skin feeling silky smooth rather than sitting heavily on top.

However, everyone’s skin is different in terms of absorbency. I’d recommend starting with a small amount first if you have oily skin or are new to thicker creams. But most find that despite the creamy texture, it penetrates skin nicely.

Does Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream Provide Long-Lasting Hydration?

Definitely! What’s great about the formula is that it contains emollient ingredients that help “lock in” moisture. So while the cream itself absorbs, the hydrating effects last on your skin.

The fatty acids and vitamins (A, E, and D) from the almond oil and cocoa butter cling to skin cells. This helps strengthen your moisture barrier and prevents moisture loss.

The effect is longer lasting hydration that keeps skin smooth and supple. You don’t have to keep re-applying throughout the day to get soft skin.

Can You Use Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream As Lube?

No, this massage cream is not intended to be used as a sexual lubricant or lube. It does not have the proper pH balance for internal use or use with condoms.

The creamy formula is meant for external massage purposes only. While the texture allows it to glide smoothly onto skin, it has not been formulated for intimate areas.

For bedroom massage, opt for massage oils or look for products designed specifically as personal lubricants for safe intimate use.

What’s the Best Way to Apply Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream?

To get the most out of each use, here are some tips for application:

• Warm it between palms first to melt it before applying. This helps it spread easily.
• Focus on massaging in circular motions to allow better absorption into skin.
• Use after showering when skin is still damp for maximum hydration.
• Apply to targeted areas like dry knees rather than slathering all over if using it as a daily moisturizer. A little goes a long way!
• Use lighter hand pressure around delicate areas like face and neck region.
• Store at room temp – the jar can be warmed with hot water to make scooping easier if it solidifies.

Taking a bit of time to massage this cream in with care allows your skin to reap all the soothing, nourishing benefits!

Final Verdict: Should You Try Queen Helene Almond Massage Cream?

If you want a classic drugstore body cream that intensively hydrates skin without costing luxury brand prices, Queen Helene’s Almond Massage Cream is highly recommended!

It contains powerhouse moisturizing ingredients like sweet almond oil and cocoa butter that get absorbed by skin beautifully. The versatility as both a massage cream and daily moisturizer makes it great value for money. A little truly goes a long way.

The light, nutty almond scent provides an aromatherapy factor that enhances massages without being overpowering. And it’s gentle enough to use on face and body without clogging pores.

For best results, focus on massaging it into skin thoroughly. Dry, mature, or irritated skin will love how it smooths and soothes. And the affordable price tag makes this old school cream a wallet-friendly winner.