Uses And Benefits Of Apricot Kernel Oil For Skin And Hair

Apricot oil, extracted from the kernels of apricots, is a versatile and beneficial oil for both skin and hair care. The apricot tree, scientifically known as Prunus armeniaca. The history of apricot dates back thousands of years, with the apricot fruit being cultivated for both its nutritional and medicinal properties in ancient cultures. 

Originating from China, apricots have spread to various parts of the world, including Armenia, where the fruit gained its botanical name. Apricots were introduced to Europe and later to America by Spanish explorers. The kernels of apricots have been used traditionally for their oil, which has been a staple in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for its healing properties.

In this article, we are going to discuss the various benefits of apricot oil which includes apricot benefits for skin as well as hair. The properties of apricot kernel oil include high levels of vitamins A and E, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin and protecting it from damage. The skin benefits of apricot kernel oil are numerous, including improved hydration, reduced signs of aging, and enhanced skin elasticity.

Benefits of Apricot Kernel Oil for Skin

1. Moisturizing Properties

Apricot kernel oil is rich in essential fatty acids, such as oleic and linoleic acids, which help to keep the skin hydrated. Its emollient properties make it an excellent moisturizer for dry skin, leaving it soft and supple. When used as a massage oil, apricot kernel oil not only provides a smooth glide but also nourishes and hydrates the skin, leaving it soft and supple. Apricot kernel oil makes an excellent facial oil due to its lightweight texture and ability to deeply penetrate the skin without leaving a greasy residue.

2. Anti-Aging Effects

The apricot oil is rich in vitamins A and E, which are known for their anti-aging benefits. These vitamins help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by promoting skin cell regeneration and protecting the skin from free radical damage. Using apricot kernel oil for your skin can improve its texture and tone, leaving it looking more radiant and youthful. Incorporating kernel oil into your skin routine can also enhance hydration and improve the texture of your skin.

3. Improves Skin Tone

Regular use of apricot kernel oil can help to even out the skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots and blemishes. The oil is a natural emollient, helping to soothe and soften the skin without clogging pores. Apricot kernel oil contains essential fatty acids and antioxidants that help to repair the skin and promote cell regeneration. Its light texture allows it to penetrate deep into the skin, delivering nutrients where they are needed most. Apricot oil is also widely used in skin care products. 

4, Soothes Sensitive Skin

The benefits for skin of apricot kernel oil extend to its ability to soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and calm inflammation. Apricot kernel oil is gentle and non-irritating, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. It can help to soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and calm conditions like eczema and dermatitis.

5. Healing Properties

This oil is particularly beneficial for damaged skin, as it aids in healing and reducing the appearance of scars and blemishes. The oil's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it effective in treating minor cuts, wounds, and skin infections. It helps to speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of scarring. Apricot kernel oil is highly effective in treating various skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, thanks to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Apricot Kernel Oil Benefits for Hair

1. Promotes Hair Growth

Apricot kernel oil can help to stimulate hair growth by improving blood circulation to the scalp. Its nutrient-rich composition nourishes the hair follicles, promoting healthier and stronger hair growth.

2. Conditions Hair

The oil's moisturizing properties make it an excellent natural conditioner. It helps to detangle hair, reduce frizz, and add shine, making it easier to manage.

3. Prevents Dry Scalp

Apricot kernel oil can help to hydrate the scalp and prevent dryness and flakiness. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also help to soothe an itchy scalp and reduce dandruff.

4. Strengthens Hair

Regular use of apricot kernel oil can help to strengthen the hair shafts, reducing breakage and split ends. It penetrates the hair strands, providing deep nourishment and making the hair more resilient.

Different Ways to Use Apricot Oil

As a Moisturizer

• For the Face: Apply a few drops of apricot kernel oil to your face after cleansing and toning. Gently massage it into the skin using upward circular motions.
• For the Body: After a shower, apply the oil to damp skin to lock in moisture. It can be used alone or mixed with your favorite body lotion.

As a Hair Treatment

• Pre-Shampoo Treatment: Warm a small amount of apricot kernel oil and massage it into your scalp and hair. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes before washing it off with a mild shampoo.
• Leave-In Conditioner: Apply a few drops of apricot kernel oil to the ends of your hair to tame frizz and add shine. It can also be used as a detangler for easier combing.

In DIY Skincare Recipes

• Facial Serum: Mix apricot kernel oil with other carrier oils like jojoba oil and a few drops of essential oils like lavender or rosehip oil for a nourishing facial serum.
• Body Scrub: Combine apricot kernel oil with sugar or salt and a few drops of essential oil to create a hydrating body scrub that exfoliates and moisturizes the skin.

DIY Recipes using Apricot Kernel Oil 

Recipe #1 - DIY Apricot Oil Face Serum

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of apricot kernel oil
• 1 tablespoon of jojoba oil
• 5 drops of lavender essential oil
• 3 drops of frankincense essential oil
• 1 drop of vitamin E oil

Instructions:

1. In a small, dark-colored glass bottle, combine apricot kernel oil and jojoba oil.
2. Add lavender and frankincense essential oils along with the vitamin E oil.
3. Close the bottle and shake well to mix all the oils thoroughly.
4. Apply a few drops of this serum to your face and neck after cleansing, gently massaging it in using upward circular motions.

Benefits:

• Apricot kernel oil hydrates and nourishes the skin.
• Frankincense essential oil helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Lavender essential oil calms the skin, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.

Recipe #2 - DIY Apricot Oil Hair Mask

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of apricot kernel oil
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 5 drops of rosemary essential oil

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix apricot kernel oil and coconut oil.
2. Stir in the honey until fully combined.
3. Add rosemary essential oil and mix well.
4. Apply the mask to your hair, focusing on the ends and avoiding the roots.
5. Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave it on for at least 30 minutes.
6. Rinse off the mask with warm water and shampoo your hair as usual.

Benefits:

• The fatty acids in apricot kernel oil and coconut oil deeply condition and nourish the hair.
• Rosemary essential oil promotes hair growth and strengthens hair follicles.
• Honey adds shine and helps maintain moisture in the hair.

Recipe #3 - DIY Apricot Oil Body Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of sugar
• 1/2 cup of apricot kernel oil
• 5 drops of orange essential oil
• 5 drops of lemon essential oil

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the sugar and apricot kernel oil.
2. Add orange and lemon essential oils to the mixture.
3. Stir the mixture well until all ingredients are combined.
4. Apply the scrub to damp skin in the shower, gently massaging in circular motions.
5. Rinse off with warm water and pat your skin dry.

Benefits:

• Sugar helps to exfoliate dead skin cells, leaving the skin smooth.
• Apricot kernel carrier oil moisturizes and nourishes the skin.
• Orange and lemon essential oils brighten the skin and improve its overall tone. It is also good for acne-prone skin. 

Recipe #4 - DIY Apricot Oil Lip Balm

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of apricot kernel oil
• 1 tablespoon of beeswax pellets
• 1 tablespoon of shea butter
• 5 drops of peppermint essential oil

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler, melt the beeswax pellets and shea butter.
2. Once melted, remove from heat and add apricot kernel oil and peppermint essential oil.
3. Stir well and pour the mixture into small lip balm containers.
4. Allow the balm to cool and harden before using.

Benefits:

• Apricot kernel oil keeps the lips soft and hydrated.
• Shea butter and beeswax protect and heal chapped lips.
• Peppermint essential oil provides a refreshing, cooling sensation.

Recipe #5 - DIY Apricot Oil Face Mask for Glowing Skin

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of apricot kernel oil
• 1 tablespoon of yogurt
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine apricot kernel oil, yogurt, and honey.
2. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3. Apply the mask to your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
4. Leave the mask on for 15-20 minutes.
5. Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry.

Benefits:

• Apricot kernel oil deeply moisturizes the skin.
• Yogurt contains lactic acid which brightens the skin and evens out skin tone.
• Honey provides antibacterial and antioxidant properties that nourish and protect the skin. This is a great recipe to include in your skin care routine.

Recipe #6 - DIY Apricot Oil Cuticle Cream

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of apricot kernel oil
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon of shea butter
• 5 drops of lavender essential oil

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler, melt the coconut oil and shea butter.
2. Once melted, remove from heat and add apricot kernel oil and lavender essential oil.
3. Stir well and pour the mixture into a small container. Allow it to cool and solidify.
4. Apply a small amount to your cuticles and massage gently.

Benefits:

• Apricot kernel carrier -oil keeps the cuticles soft and hydrated.
• Shea butter and coconut oil heal and protect dry, cracked cuticles.
• Lavender essential oil soothes and calms the skin around the nails.

Recipe #7 - DIY Apricot Oil Body Lotion

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of apricot kernel oil
• 1/4 cup of shea butter
• 1/4 cup of cocoa butter
• 10 drops of vanilla essential oil

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler, melt shea butter and cocoa butter.
2. Once melted, remove from heat and add apricot kernel oil and vanilla essential oil.
3. Stir well and pour the mixture into a lotion bottle or jar. Allow it to cool and solidify.
4. Apply to your body as needed, focusing on dry areas.

Benefits:

• Apricot kernel oil and butters deeply hydrate the skin.
• Shea butter and cocoa butter provide essential nutrients to the skin.
• Vanilla essential oil adds a pleasant, soothing scent to the lotion.

Recipe #8 - DIY Apricot Oil Scalp Treatment

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of apricot kernel oil
• 5 drops of tea tree oil
• 5 drops of peppermint oil

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix apricot kernel oil with tea tree and peppermint oils.
2. Apply the mixture directly to your scalp, focusing on areas that are dry or flaky.
3. Gently massage your scalp for 5-10 minutes to stimulate circulation.
4. Leave the treatment on for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible.
5. Rinse thoroughly with shampoo and conditioner.

Benefits:

• Apricot kernel oil hydrates the scalp and reduces dryness.
• Tea tree oil helps combat dandruff and other scalp conditions.
• Peppermint oil invigorates the scalp and promotes healthy hair growth.

Recipe #9 - DIY Apricot Oil Sunburn Relief Spray

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of aloe vera gel
• 1/4 cup of apricot kernel oil
• 10 drops of lavender oil
• 10 drops of chamomile oil

Instructions:

1. In a spray bottle, combine aloe vera gel, apricot kernel oil, lavender, and chamomile oils.
2. Shake the bottle well to mix all the ingredients.
3. Spray the mixture onto sunburned skin for immediate relief.
4. Reapply the spray as needed to soothe and hydrate the skin.

Benefits:

• Aloe vera and chamomile essential oil soothe irritated and sunburned skin.
• Apricot kernel oil deeply hydrates the skin, preventing peeling and promoting healing.
• Lavender essential oil provides a cooling effect and reduces inflammation.

Risks and Precautions of Using Apricot Oil for Skin and Hair

While apricot oil offers numerous benefits for both skin and hair, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions to avoid adverse reactions.

Risks of Using Apricot Oil for Skin and Hair

• Skin Barrier: While apricot oil can enhance the skin barrier by providing moisture and essential nutrients, it can also cause irritation if your skin barrier is already compromised. This might lead to redness, itching, or further damage to sensitive skin.
• Sensitive and Mature Skin: Apricot oil is generally gentle, but individuals with sensitive or mature skin may experience adverse reactions such as redness or irritation. It's important to start with a small amount to gauge your skin's reaction.
• Pore Clogging: Overuse of apricot oil can lead to clogged pores, especially in individuals with acne-prone skin. This can cause breakouts and worsen existing acne conditions.
• Excess Oiliness: Because apricot oil is easily absorbed, using too much can leave your skin or hair feeling excessively oily. This is particularly problematic for those with oily or combination skin types. 
• Allergic Reactions: Those allergic to tree nuts may experience allergic reactions to apricot oil. Symptoms can include itching, swelling, and redness. 
• Flaky Skin: Although apricot oil can soothe and hydrate flaky skin, using it excessively might lead to oiliness and potential breakouts.

Precautions to Take When Using Apricot Oil

• Conduct a Patch Test: Before applying apricot oil extensively, perform a patch test by applying a small amount to a discreet area of your skin. Wait 24 hours to see if any adverse reactions occur. This step is crucial to avoid widespread irritation or allergic reactions.
• Dilute the Oil: When using apricot oil on your skin, always dilute it with a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil, almond oil, or coconut oil, to minimize the risk of irritation. This is especially important for sensitive skin types.
• Moderate Usage: Use apricot oil in moderation. A few drops are usually sufficient for moisturizing your skin or hair. Overuse can lead to greasiness and clogged pores. 
• Opt for Cold-Pressed Oil: Ensure you choose cold-pressed apricot oil, as this method retains more nutrients and is free from harmful chemicals. High-quality oil is less likely to cause adverse reactions.
• Check for Purity: Look for pure apricot oil without additives. Read labels carefully to avoid products with added fragrances or preservatives that can irritate the skin.
• Avoiding Allergens: If you have a known allergy to tree nuts, avoid using apricot oil to prevent allergic reactions. Always consult with a healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
• Targeted Use: Apply apricot oil specifically to areas that need hydration or repair, such as dry patches, split ends, or damaged skin. This targeted approach minimizes the risk of over-application and subsequent issues. 
• Proper Storage: Store apricot oil in a cool, dark place to maintain its efficacy and prevent it from becoming rancid. Exposure to heat and light can degrade the oil's quality.
• Hygiene: Always use clean hands or tools when applying apricot oil to avoid introducing bacteria into the product, which can lead to skin infections or irritation.

Conclusion

Apricot kernel oil is extracted from the seeds of apricots, known for their high content of essential fatty acids and vitamins. To extract the oil, apricot kernels are pressed to release their beneficial compounds, resulting in a nutrient-rich oil. Apricot oil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various skin ailments and improve overall skin health.

The oil may also help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting a youthful complexion. When applying the oil on the skin, it absorbs quickly, leaving a non-greasy finish and providing deep hydration.

Apricot kernel oil is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, making it a versatile addition to any skincare and hair care routine. The seed oil is also excellent for hair, promoting shine and strength. With its versatile benefits, apricot kernel oil was used in ancient times and continues to be a valuable natural remedy.  When used correctly, apricot oil benefits the skin and hair, providing essential nutrients and improving overall texture and appearance.