What Is Apricot Oil?
Apricot oil is a natural oil extracted from the seeds or kernels of apricots (Prunus Armeniaca). It is very light and does not feel heavy or greasy on the skin. This oil is packed with healthy unsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid, which is great for the skin, and other beneficial compounds like phenols and tocopherols that have antioxidant properties (1). It may be helpful in keeping your skin soft and hydrated and in keeping acne at bay. Who Can Use It? It can be used by all individuals and is safe for all skin types. How Often? You can use it twice or thrice a week for topical application. Caution It may experience redness, itching, and irritation in some people.
If you are wondering how beneficial this oil is for your skin, scroll down to the next section to learn more.
Why Is Apricot Oil Good For Your Skin?
Apricot oil is an excellent moisturizer and carrier oil. It has high levels of vitamin E, vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber, and essential fatty acids. The vitamins have nourishing and hydrating properties that keep the skin healthy, while the unsaturated fatty acids reduce inflammation. The oil also exhibits anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties (2). Here are a few reasons you should include apricot oil in your skin care routine:
1. May Brighten Your Skin
Apricot oil is a good source of vitamins C and E, and these antioxidants help boost the skin cell turnoveri The ongoing biological process of removing old skin cells from the outer skin layers and replacing them with newer ones. , promoting a brighter complexion and even tone. They stimulate collagen production and prevent free radical damage (3), (4). They prevent pollution-induced tanning and pigmentation issues.
2. May Moisturize Your Skin
Apricot oil is used in cosmetics because of its emollient properties (5). It penetrates deep into the skin to prevent moisture loss and keep it hydrated. Since it is a good source of vitamin A and other fatty acids, the oil can strengthen the skin barrier, improve its texture, and restore damaged skin (6).
3. May Prevent Acne And Inflammation
Apricot oil has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is effective against S. aureus and Candida albicans and other fungal skin conditions. Applying apricot oil soothes and heals the skin and may also reduce inflammation to ease the symptoms of conditions like eczemai A persistent condition that flares up sporadically, leaving you with dry, itchy skin and weakened skin barrier function. and psoriasisi A non-contagious autoimmune disorder in which skin cells accumulate and develop into scales and dry, itchy areas. (7), (8).
4. May Reduce Aging Signs
Apricot oil may slow down signs of aging and boost circulation in the skin . It is a source of vitamin A that may help minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, rebuild collagen, and tighten the skin (9). It may also improve the signs of photoaging. The oil’s antioxidant properties also protect your skin from further UV damage (7).
Ways To Use Apricot Oil For Skin
1. As A Moisturizer
Wash your face. Massage the damp skin with 2-3 drops of apricot oil in a circular motion. Leave it overnight. Repeat once every day.
2. As A Facial Mask
Mix 2 tablespoons of apricot oil, 1 teaspoon of matcha powder, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Apply this mixture to damp skin. Leave it on for 10 minutes and wash off with warm water. Use it 2-3 times a week.
3. As An Oil Cleanser
Mix a few drops of essential oils and 20mL of apricot oil. Massage your skin with the oil blend. Leave it on for 20 minutes and then rinse it off. Use it three times a week.
4. As A Sealant
After finishing your skin care routine, massage your face with 2-3 drops of apricot oil. Leave it on overnight as it locks in all the goodness of the skin care products. Use it every day.
5. As A Massage Oil
Mix 25 drops of any essential oil with 60 mL of apricot oil. Store the mix in a glass jar. Use this mixture for body massage before showering. Use it every day for soft and supple skin.
Claire Samuel, a beauty and lifestyle content creator, used apricot kernel oil on her face and achieved remarkable results. It made her skin softer and glowing than before. In her video, she said, “It is amazing. It gives your skin this soft feeling (i).” She applied it every night before going to sleep. She added, “In the evening, I wash my face and when it’s still a bit wet, I apply a few drops of apricot kernel oil. Then, I apply a face cream a little bit, and in the morning, I wash my face.”
Is It Safe To Use Apricot Oil For Skin?
Generally, it is considered safe for all skin types and is safe to be used in cosmetic products (10). However, if you are allergic, apricot kernel oil may irritate the skin and cause rashes and redness. Always do a patch test and avoid using it on the face if you are prone to pimples or acne.
Summing It Up
Illustration: Apricot Oil For Skin: Benefits And 5 Easy Ways To Use
Which is better: apricot oil or almond oil? Both apricot and almond oils contain vitamin E, which helps in collagen production and skin hydration (3), (5), (11). Almond oil has a higher vitamin E content than apricot oil, offering numerous almond oil benefits like enhanced skin elasticity, better hydration, and improved skin tone. On the other hand, apricot oil is lighter than apricot oil (12), (13). You can choose either oil as per your preference. Is apricot oil light or heavy? Apricot oil is a lightweight oil, which means it gets absorbed quickly by your skin. Is apricot oil good for sensitive skin? Yes, apricot oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that make it ideal for sensitive skin (2), (14). Discover the amazing beauty benefits of apricot oil! Check out this video to learn about the top 10 uses of this oil and get glowing skin and thick hair naturally!
