In the world of skincare, the lightweight, easily absorbable carrier oil - Apricot Kernel Oil - is highly valued for its richly moisturising and nourishing properties.
Evidence suggests the first cultivation of apricots happened before 3000 B.C. in India, although literature tracks its medicinal and culinary purposes throughout the ancient world. Apricot Kernel Oil was traditionally used in ancient Chinese medicine to remedy swelling, growths and ulcers. Ayurvedic medicine uses the hydrating properties of Apricot Kernel Oil to reduce signs of ageing and boost the immune system.
Nowadays, Apricot Kernel Oil is highly valued for its nourishing qualities that are known to rejuvenate and hydrate the skin and hair. Due to the many benefits of Apricot Kernel Oil, it is also seen as a true all-rounder oil, making it the perfect addition for any skincare routine.
What is Apricot Kernel Oil?
Apricot Kernel Oil is made from cold-pressing apricot seeds from the Apricot plant (Prunus armeniaca) to extract the oil from the kernels. The average oil content in the kernels is between 40 to 50%, producing a yellow coloured oil that mildly smells like Apricot. The more refined the oil is, the lighter the aroma and colour the oil will be.
Across hair and skincare, Apricot Kernel Oil is highly esteemed for its emollient, cleansing and anti-inflammatory properties that have been seen to soften, protect, soothe and repair the skin and hair. It is one of the most versatile and effective carrier oils, is suitable across all skin types and is the perfect base for diluting any of your favourite essential oils.
Benefits of Apricot Kernel Oil
The main compounds of Apricot Kernel Oil include vitamins A, E, K, oleic (Omega 9), linoleic (Omega 6) and alpha-linolenic (omega 3) acids. It also contains stearic and palmitic acids as well as having emollient (softening and soothing), antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing properties.
As one of the best all-rounder carrier oils, Apricot Kernel Oil is lightweight, easily absorbable and highly moisturising for all skin types, especially maturing, sensitive and dry skin. It is also known to have powerful cleansing properties and has been seen to boost overall health and wellness.
Here are some common ways that Apricot Kernel Oil may benefit you:
- Stimulates thick and strong hair growth
- Fights against dandruff
- Hydrates the scalp
- Prevents hair loss
- Eases inflammation of joints and stiff muscles
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines, scarring and wrinkles
- Moisturises and softens hair follicles
- Soothes acne breakouts
- May control blood clotting on the skin
- Clears pores
- Removes dirt, excess oil and toxins from the skin
- Protects skin against UV damage
- Reduces the appearance of dark circles and blemishes
- Encourages healing
- Boosts collagen production
- Fights against bacteria production
- Promotes skin cell regeneration
- Boosts circulation
Common Uses of Apricot Kernel Oil
Apricot Kernel Oil is one of the most versatile carrier oils available. From anti-ageing and acne related benefits to soothing inflammation, Apricot Kernel Oil is a well-known carrier oil that is predominantly used for cosmetic purposes. Here are some popular ways to use Apricot Kernel Oil:
Apricot Kernel Oil For Hair
Apricot Kernel Oil for Hair
Packed with emollient and anti-inflammatory properties, fatty acids, palmitic and stearic acids, Apricot Kernel Oil soothes and nourishes the scalp and protects hair from damage.
Apricot Kernel Oil for Scalp Care
- Filled with anti-inflammatory properties, Apricot Kernel Oil fights against dandruff and may soothe the scalp when irritated.
- Apricot Kernel Oil has a rich Vitamin A and E content that works to soothe a dry scalp while boosting moisture retention in both the scalp and hair follicles.
Apricot Kernel Oil for Hair Growth
- With antioxidant properties and stearic acid, Apricot Kernel Oil conditions and protects hair from damage.
- The vitamin E, fatty acids and palmitic acid content within Apricot Kernel Oil not only work to soften the hair follicles but also moisturises and prevents hair loss.
- Its Omega 9 fatty acids stimulate strong, healthy hair growth and boost hair shine and radiance.
Apricot Kernel Oil For The Skin
Apricot Kernel Oil for Skin
With essential fatty acids and vitamins, Apricot Kernel Oil not only builds a soft, even complexion but may also clear the pores and remove dirt and toxins.
Apricot Kernel Oil for Acne
- Its Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids may work to soothe acne breakouts.
- With anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, Apricot Kernel Oil reduces the chance of future acne breakouts while calming inflammation.
- When blended with other oils, Apricot Kernel Oil makes oils feel lighter in consistency, making it perfect for acne-prone skin.
- It also contains stearic acid that works to clear away dirt, excess oil and toxins from the pores.
Apricot Kernel Oil for Skin Tone
- Its stearic acid content may help to soften the skin and act as a cleansing agent to clear away dirt, excess oil and toxins.
- With essential fatty acids (Omega 3, 6 and 9), Apricot Kernel Oil encourages moisture retention in the skin, promotes healing and helps maintain supple skin.
- Apricot Kernel Oil has anti-ageing properties that have been seen to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- It also contains vitamin K that works to reduce the appearance of dark circles around the eyes.
Apricot Kernel Oil For Pain and Inflammation
Apricot Kernel Oil for Pain and Inflammation
- With natural anti-inflammatory properties, Apricot Kernel Oil is known to ease inflammation of the joints and help with stiff muscles and muscle pain.
How To Apply Apricot Kernel Oil
Massage: Dilute a few drops of your favourite essential oil in Apricot Kernel Oil to create a soothing and hydrating massage oil.
Directly on the Skin: Apply directly onto the skin to receive the many skin benefits of Apricot Kernel Oil.
Diluting with Essential Oils: Apricot Kernel Carrier Oil makes a great base for diluting essential oils. You can also add this oil in to a lot of skincare formulations such as skin serums and moisturisers.
Hair Mask: Apply this carrier oil to the scalp to create a nourishing hair mask.
Is Apricot Kernel Oil Safe?
It is important to note that Apricot Kernel Carrier Oil should not be consumed or digested due to the presence of amygdalin in the kernels.
Our products are formulated for aromatherapy purposes and are not food grade. Apricot Kernel Oil should not be ingested or consumed internally or used for culinary purposes.
Before using Apricot Kernel Oil for topical use, we recommend performing a skin patch test on a small area of the skin to check for a reaction. Those with sensitive skin should perform the test over at least 48 hours to give the body time to respond.
Apricot Kernel Oil Shelf Life
Apricot Kernel Oil can last between six months to a year, however, to prolong its shelf life we recommend storing your oil in a cool, dark place that is away from sunlight. It is known to be sensitive to heat and light and can go rancid quickly if not stored correctly.
Apricot Kernel Oil and Pregnancy
Apricot Kernel Oil can deeply moisturise the skin and is considered safe for topical use. With that being said, do not consume Apricot Kernel Oil when pregnant or breastfeeding due to its natural cyanide content.
If you are pregnant we recommend reaching out to your GP or healthcare practitioner to discuss any concerns you have about implementing Apricot Kernel Oil into your skincare routine.
Where To Buy Carrier Oils?
While carrier oils are generally available to purchase at health, wellness and retail stores, it is important to keep in mind that the quality and purity of these carrier oils will vary. This is why we recommend finding a reputable supplier.
Here at AWO we have a wide selection of carrier oils and organic carrier oils that are sold at reasonable prices. Because our stock is purchased in bulk quantities our costs are significantly less, which allows us to offer high-quality products at affordable prices. We are also based right here in Australia!