With a mild nutty scent and intense moisturising properties, Apricot Kernel Oil is highly valued in the skincare and hair care industries. But what exactly is Apricot Kernel Oil, and why do so many people love it?
In this article, we’re diving deep into the very heart of the fruit’s inner sanctum and exploring the many benefits of Apricot seeds stored within.
What is Apricot Kernel Oil?
Apricot Kernel Oil – also known as Apricot Seed Oil - is made by cold-pressing the seeds or kernels of the Prunus armeniaca plant. The process results in a lightweight and easily absorbable carrier oil that’s colourless to yellow in colour, mildly scented and rich in moisturising and nourishing properties.
Evidence suggests apricot kernel health benefits were first recognised in 3000 B.C. in India, although literature tracks its medicinal and culinary purposes throughout the ancient world. Apricot Seed Oil was traditionally used in ancient Chinese medicine to remedy swelling, growths and ulcers, while Ayurvedic medicine drew on the hydrating properties of Apricot Oil to reduce signs of ageing and boost the immune system.
Nowadays, Apricot Kernel Oil is highly valued for its nourishing qualities and ability to rejuvenate and hydrate skin, hair, nails and more. Seen as a true all-rounder oil, it makes the perfect addition to any personal care routine.
Benefits of Apricot Kernel Oil
The main compounds of Apricot Kernel Oil are vitamins A, E, and K, oleic (Omega 9), linoleic (Omega 6) and alpha-linolenic (omega 3) acids, and stearic and palmitic acids. Combined, these provide abundant and powerful therapeutic properties - emollient (softening and soothing), antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing, to name a few.
Apricot Kernel Oil is highly esteemed as one of the most versatile and effective carrier oils for hair and skin care, suitable across all skin types and the perfect base for diluting any of your favourite essential oils.
As one of the best all-rounder carrier oils, Apricot Kernel Oil is good for all skin types, especially mature, 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 benefits your body:
- Stimulates thick and strong hair growth
- Moisturises and softens hair follicles
- Hydrates the scalp and prevents dandruff
- May help prevent hair loss
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Fights against free radicals and environmental stress
- Soothes acne breakouts and blemishes
- May control blood clotting on the skin
- Clears the skin’s pores
- Removes dirt, excess oil and toxins from the skin
- Protects skin against UV damage
- Reduces the appearance of dark circles
- Can encourage wound healing
- Boosts collagen production
- Fights against bacteria production
- Promotes skin cell regeneration
- Boosts blood circulation
- Eases inflammation of joints and muscles
- Moisturises and protects the lips
- Nourishes the nails and cuticles
Common Uses of Apricot Kernel Oil
As one of the most versatile carrier oils available, you can use Apricot Oil in a plethora of ways – from anti-ageing and acne-related benefits to soothing inflammation.
Here are some of the most popular uses of Apricot Kernel Oil:
Apricot Kernel Oil for Hair
Packed with emollient and anti-inflammatory properties, fatty acids, palmitic and stearic acids, Apricot Kernel Oil benefits the scalp by adding nourishment, which protects the 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 the hair from damage.
- The vitamin E, fatty acids and palmitic acid content within Apricot Seed Oil not only work to soften the hair follicles but also moisturise and prevent hair loss.
Apricot Kernel Oil for Skin
Thanks to an abundance of essential fatty acids and vitamins in Apricot Seed Oil, its benefits for the skin are extensive - from evening complexion to clearing the pores naturally and reducing the signs of ageing.
Apricot Kernel Oil for Acne
- Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids in Apricot Oil regulate the skin’s oil production, which may work to soothe acne breakouts.
- With powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, Apricot Kernel Oil calms inflammation while reducing the chance of future acne breakouts.
- When blended with other oils, Apricot Kernel Oil takes on a lighter consistency, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.
- The stearic acid in Apricot Oil helps clear away dirt, excess oil and toxins from the pores – beneficial to skin that’s prone to breakouts.
Apricot Kernel Oil for Skin Tone
- Containing essential fatty acids (Omega 3, 6 and 9), Apricot Kernel Oil encourages moisture retention in the skin, promoting healing and helping to maintain supple skin.
- Apricot Seed Oil includes natural anti-ageing properties that have been seen to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The vitamin K content in Apricot Oil also works to reduce the appearance of dark circles around the eyes.
Apricot Kernel Oil for Mature Skin
- Powerful antioxidants in Apricot Kernel Oil protect the skin against free radicals, fighting the damage caused by UV and other environmental factors to help prevent premature ageing.
- The high concentration of fatty acids in Apricot Oil nourishes and hydrates the skin, reducing wrinkles and promoting youthful-looking skin.
Apricot Kernel Oil for Pain and Inflammation
With natural anti-inflammatory properties, Apricot Kernel Oil is known to ease inflammation of the joints, relax stiff muscles and minimise muscle pain.
Apricot Kernel Oil for Lips
If you’re wondering if Apricot Oil benefits lips, the answer is yes! The fatty acids in Apricot Kernel Oil can help restore the lips’ natural moisture barrier, helping to prevent dryness and chapping. Vitamins A and E offer protection against UV rays and windburn.
Apricot Kernel Oil for Nails
In addition to skin support, Apricot Oil has benefits for nails too. The natural and fatty acids found in Apricot Seed Oil contain extensive moisturising properties that help strengthen nail cuticles and prevent them from splitting. They also help hydrate nails to make them shinier.
How To Apply Apricot Kernel Oil
Massage: Dilute a few drops of your favourite essential oil in Apricot Kernel Oil to create a soothing, hydrating and anti-inflammatory massage oil.
Directly on the Skin: Apply directly onto the skin to receive the many 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 Apricot Kernel Oil to the scalp, hair roots, and ends of your hair to create a nourishing, repairing, and growth-boosting hair mask. Leave for as long as desired and then shampoo well.
Nail Oil: Apricot Oil makes for a fantastic nail & cuticle treatment! Rub into your nails and cuticles daily to help encourage strong nail growth and condition cuticles.
Lip Balm: Create your own nourishing lip balm by combining 2 tbsp of Apricot Seed Oil with 2 tbsp of melted beeswax and 1 tbsp of melted Shea Butter.
Joint Pain Relief: Using a small amount of Apricot Oil, gently massage onto sore or achy areas to provide a natural remedy for muscle or joint discomfort.
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. 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 to check for a reaction. Those with sensitive skin should perform the test at least 48 hours before regular use 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 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, we recommend not using Apricot Kernel Oil when pregnant or breastfeeding due to its natural cyanide content.
If you are pregnant, speak with your GP or healthcare practitioner about implementing Apricot Kernel Oil safely 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 – a saving we can pass on to our customers. We are also based right here in Australia!