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Light, soothing, and protective with a soft, nutty aroma, Apricot Kernel oil has a rich oleic acid and vitamin E content, also boasting a high level of vitamin B-17. It is absorbent and lavishly moisturizing, making it the perfect candidate as an ingredient in a softening facial mask or as your massage base for a night of pampering. A lighter alternative to Sweet Almond oil, Apricot Kernel oil is non-greasy and an excellent choice for mature skin. [1, 2]
Method: Cold Pressed
Process: Refined
Aroma: Apricot Kernel has a very mild nutty aroma
Consistency: Typical and characteristic of carrier oils
Color: Pale yellow to golden yellow
Absorption: Medium - Slow
Citations:1) Parker, S. (2015). Power of the Seed. Los Angeles: Process.
2) Price, L. and Price, S. (2008). Carrier oils for aromatherapy and massage. Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire: Riverhead.
Safety: Keep out of reach of children. If pregnant or under a doctor’s care, consult physician. Avoid contact with eyes. Do not use internally unless instructed by a licensed aromatherapist or physician.
OK For Kids: 2+
Shelf Life: 1-2 Years
- Due to natural essential fatty acids and naturally occurring Vitamin E and Vitamin A found in apricot kernel oil such as oleic acid, and linoleic acid it has nourishing benefits for all skin types when used topically. It matches our natural skin sebum and can promote healthy skin by moisturizing, reducing sensitivity, clearing blemishes and ironing out fine lines and wrinkles in mature skin. It is also beneficial for dry hair. To keep the fatty acids viable and extend its shelf life, Apricot Kernel oil should be kept in a cold, dark location such as in a refrigerator.
- A comedogenic ingredient is a substance that has a high likelihood of clogging pores which can lead to acne, blemishes and blackheads. The comedogenic rating of Apricot Kernel oil is 2 out of 5 (5 being the most severe clogging). Conclusively, this means that Apricot Kernel oil most likely won't clog most people's pores but for those whose skin is easily irritated due to sensitive skin or oily skin, it is recommended to perform a skin patch test of Apricot Kernel oil on the inner arm for 24 hours before using over a larger portion of the body. If redness, itchiness or irritation occurs, discontinue use.
- Apricot kernels contain a natural compound called amygdalin that is non-toxic but when ingested converts to cyanide. Because of this, we do not recommend that anyone ingest Apricot Kernel oil. When used topically, Apricot Kernel oil has benefits for the skin that help to promote a healthy radiance and glow.
- Apricot Kernel oil has a shelf life after manufacture of one year. If Apricot Kernel oil is kept in a cold, dark environment, such as the refrigerator, its life will be extended and the fatty acid benefit is prolonged. You can understand if an oil has gone rancid when it has a sour smell.
- Apricot Kernel oil can be extracted using various methods such as manual grinding and cold pressing, expeller pressing and solvent extraction. It would be possible to make your own Apricot Kernel oil with the manual grinding/cold pressed method but it is a difficult and timely practice. There is a machine called the Power Ghani that can be employed to extract oil from any stone fruit kernels.
Apply Topically: Our Single Essential Oils and Synergy Blends are 100% pure and undiluted. To apply to the skin, dilute with a high-quality Carrier Oil. See our dilution chart here. Alternatively, use Carrier Oils alone as a natural moisturizer. We recommend performing a skin patch test when using a new essential oil topically.
DIYs: Explore simple and fun recipes on The Drop our essential oil blog with expert tips, EO news, and informative reads.
Lavender & Honey Clay Mask
2 1⁄2 tsp Tunisian Green Clay Powder
1 1⁄2 tsp distilled water
1 tsp Apricot Kernel Oil
1⁄2 tsp raw, unfiltered honey
1 drop of French Lavender Essential Oil
Add the 1 drop of French Lavender to 1 tsp of Apricot Kernal Oil. Stir and set aside. In a separate container, mix the Tunisian Green Clay and water until completely incorporated. Add the Apricot Kernel oil and French Lavender dilution to the clay and mix thoroughly. Add the unfiltered honey and mix again. Once everything is thoroughly incorporated, apply evenly to the face and allow to sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water. Dispose of any mask you do not use.
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