7 reasons why apricot kernel oil is a superstar

How apricot kernel carrier oil can help your repair and soften your skin

Living in a dry climate can be harsh to your skin!

If you live in Alberta, you have already experienced some of the howling wind, weather warnings and sometimes chinooks (I happen to live in Calgary, where we get these). Actually, being outdoors in general with skin exposed to the elements can be damaging to the skin, no matter where you live. With exposure to pollution, excessive sun, rain or snow, we take on a LOT of collateral damage.

Apricot kernel details

Botanical name: Prunus armeniaca

Family: Rosaceae

Extraction method: Cold Pressed from the seed of the fruit

Exported from: Turkey, Spain, China, USA, Kenya, Italy

Average shelf life: 1 year

Average cost $$-$$$

Similar or replacement oil: Sweet almond oil

Safety: safe for all skin types (caution those with nut allergies)

Science at work

There are some specific reasons why apricot kernel is a natural ingredient star. Mainly, the fatty acid composition of this oil. Let’s take a look.

Fatty acid composition:

Source of beta- carotene

Oleic acid: 60-65% *Incidentally, this helps with fungal infections

Linoleic acid: 30-35%

Stearic acid: 1-2%

Palmitic acid: 5-6%

You might be asking yourself, “Well, so what?” Yawn. Hold the phone, Malone! Keep reading.

This translates into 7 big skin benefits.

7 reasons to love apricot kernel oil: Benefits

Soothing to very dry skin
Excellent emollient, nourishing to the skin
Helps protect skin from moisture loss
Soothing to eczema (and related itchiness) and damaged skin
Has a softening action on the skin
Easily absorbed by the skin, has excellent penetration abilities
Helps the skin repair itself due to high levels of vitamin E

Applications: ways to incorporate using apricot kernel oil

Since apricot is easily absorbed into this skin, it’s ideal for use in:

Facial massage
Full body massage

I suggest blending it with other carrier oils to make it more affordable, but it definitely adds a luxurious, rich texture to your oil blend.

Face serums & facial oils
Apricot kernels in face scrubs
Apricot kernels as a mechanical exfoliant agent in body scrubs, soap etc.

Bottom line

Did you know? Since apricot kernel oil has skin penetrating capabilities, it assists the efficacy of the other ingredients in your product. By using natural skin care products with apricot kernel, you are getting increased benefit from the other ingredients too.

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Want to learn more about carrier oils? Check out my course on Carrier Oils for Professionals

Find out more about ingredients for DRY SKIN here