Apricot Kernel Oil : A Complete Guide With Benefits, Uses & Side effects
What is Apricot Kernel Oil?
Apricot kernel oil is a natural botanical extract from the seeds of Prunus armeniaca that is extracted through multiple distillation methods. Unlike other popular carrier oils like Jojoba Oil or argan oil, Apricot Kernel Oil is a silent muse in the skincare and well-being industry - a non-glamorous super-hero that does its duty without much noise.
Apricot kernel oil is mostly transparent to light yellow with little to no aroma, making it a perfect carrier oil for diffusers and essential oil blends. Also known as armeniaca Oil or apricot pit oil, it is a staple in the cosmetic and wellness industry. This surprisingly lightweight oil is loaded with nutrients and fatty acids that nourish skin, hair, and scalp.
There are three common types of apricot kernel oil, namely - refined, cold-pressed, and organic. The primary difference between refined and cold-pressed apricot oil is in the extraction process and nutrient profile. Refined oil has heat involved whereas cold-pressed oil is made without any heat which results in a higher density of nutrients. This also means that cold-pressed apricot oil is richer compared to the refined version.
Organic apricot kernel oil on the other hand is prepared from raw material that was cultivated without any synthetic pesticides or chemicals.
Apricot Kernel Oil Benefits
Apricot kernel oil offers a wide range of health and wellness benefits for everyday well-being as well as product manufacturing. Here are some of the noteworthy benefits for skin and hair.
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Apricot Kernel Oil Skin Benefits
The high content of vitamin E and essential fatty acids in apricot oil replenishes the outer layer of skin and moisturizes dry skin. It makes the skin smooth and supple without making it greasy. Lleic and linoleic acids in apricot kernel oil create a protective layer around the skin and prevent moisture loss.
Its soothing properties make it suitable for sensitive skin and works well with formulas designed for inflamed skin. Adding apricot kernel oil to lip balm with other natural oils like geranium oil or lavender essential oil can create a soothing and moisturizing formula.
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Apricot Kernel Oil Benefits for Face
Applying small quantities of apricot kernel oil to the face can reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and other early signs of aging. This is due to the significant vitamin A content in apricot oil which creates a synergistic effect with other bioactive compounds like vitamin E and amygdalin. All these compounds work together to give wholistic care to the delicate skin of the face and under the eyes. Adding apricot oil to facial serums, washes, and moisturizers can enhance their nourishing qualities. It is also an excellent base oil for serums as it is non-comedogenic and suitable for most skin types. -
Apricot Kernel Oil Hair Benefits
Using carrier oils for hair and scalp care is an age-old practice. While coconut oil and argan oil are some of the more popular choices for hair care, apricot kernel oil has its fair share of benefits to offer. It adds shine and moisture to dry and damaged hair and improves blood circulation on the scalp. Apricot oil also reduces dandruff by not clogging the pores. It can be used directly or added to your existing hair oil for added benefits. -
Apricot Kernel Oil for Cooking
It contains a mild flavour that pairs well with a wide range of cuisines including Mediterranean, Italian, and American. Apricot oil contains healthy fats that can improve brain function and digestion. However, it is important to use food-grade apricot kernel oil for consumption to avoid any toxicity. -
Apricot Kernel Oil for Hair Growth
Strong roots are the backbone of hair growth. Apricot kernel oil strengthens the roots and makes hair long and shiny. Its soothing properties reduce any itchiness and fight oxidative stress. Mix a few drops of rosemary essential oil with 50 ml of apricot oil to create a hair growth blend. -
Apricot Kernel Oil Pregnancy
Unline natural essential oils, apricot kernel oil is safe for topical use during pregnancy. It doesn’t affect the hormones and can be used for gentle massages. However, if you face the slightest of allergic symptoms, consult a medical professional immediately. -
Apricot Kernel Oil for Stretch Marks
The high quantity of vitamin E in apricot oil helps reduce stretch marks and cellulite. It aids in the creation of new cells and the elimination of old ones, which is crucial for removing stretch marks. Mix apricot oil with coconut oil to create a stretch mark removal blend at home.
Apricot Kernel Oil Uses
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Apricot Kernel Oil Use for skin
Add up to 35% of the total oil content in soap making recipes to introduce moisturizing properties in your handmade soaps. You can mix it with chamomile, lavender, and tea tree essential oil for soap making or simply craft a fragrance-free soap. To make serums, use up to 60% of apricot oil as the base and mix it with skin-safe essential oils and carrier oils.
For businesses using it in manufacturing cosmetic products, sourcing wholesale essential oils and carrier oils from reliable suppliers can bring down the total cost and improve profit margins.
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Apricot Kernel Oil Use for Hair
Add 1 tablespoon of apricot oil to 1 cup of hung curd and apply it as a nourishing hair pack.
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Apricot Kernel Oil Use for Health
Use it as a base oil in aromatherapy or massages for additional benefits. Add it to reduce the potency of smell while using essential oils for perfumes in chakra healing blends. Apricot oil can also be used to make alcohol-free oil-based perfumes that make your skin glow along with making you smell great.
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Apricot Kernel Oil Use for Wrinkles
Mix a few drops of bakuchi oil with apricot oil to fight wrinkles and fine lines. Massage your face with this blend before sleeping and then gently wash with water. Avoid using soap. The combined quantity of Vitamin A in them works as a natural alternative to retinol.
Side Effects of Apricot Kernel Oil
While apricot oil is mostly safe to use, watch out for following side effects in rare cases.-
Allergic Reactions
Possibility of skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
Some individuals with nut allergies could develop skin irritation and sensitivity while using apricot kernel oil. It is vital to perform a patch test before you use it all over your face and body. It might aggravate acne or sebum production so check with a dermatologist if you have oily or acne prone skin. -
Toxicity Concerns
Risks related to consuming the oil derived from bitter apricot kernels (due to amygdalin
Certain varieties of apricot oil contain a compound called amygdalin which can be toxic. Check the label for the variation of apricots used to extract the oil. -
Caution for Internal Use
Only use food-grade apricot kernel oil
Consult a doctor before ingestion, especially if pregnant or breastfeeding
Buying Tips for Apricot Kernel Oil
Whether you want to use apricot kernel oil for soap making, cosmetics, or beauty products, these tips can help you pick the right variant for your diverse needs.-
Watch Out For The Source
With synthetic dupes available in the market, it is important to source your oils from a reliable supplier that gives COA and MSDS of the oil. Directly buying from a source can also help you save money and procure it at one-fourth of the cost.
Aromachology oils is a reputed wholesale supplier of bulk apricot kernel oil in the United States and has a legacy of 16 years in the industry. -
Pick Cold-pressed Over Refined
Cold-pressed apricot oil contains more density of nutrients due to its superior extraction process, however, this also means that it is greasy compared to refined oil. -
Read The Label
Check the label for ingredients. It should say 100% natural apricot kernel oil only. Avoid buying products that have other nasties like fragrances, chemicals, and preservatives added to them. -
What’s Outside Matters
Oils tend to lose their potency when exposed to sunlight. Pick apricot oil that is either packaged in an opaque bottle or dark colored bottle. Avoid buying the ones stored in transparent bottles. -
See What Others Are Talking About It
As basic as it sounds, it is important to read reviews about the product before buying it, believe me, it will save you a lot of trouble in the future.
Conclusion
Incorporating apricot kernel oil into your skin, hair, or health routine can deliver outstanding results. From reducing fine lines to soothing the skin and even promoting hair growth, there’s so much that apricot oil can do for you - given that you watch out for possible side effects. Make lip balms, makeup, serums, body oils, hair masks, and more with this versatile oil. Prioritise quality and check for related certificates while buying apricot kernel oil.Introduce it in your products today to witness the nourishing touch of nature.
