Mmm, apricots. Sweet and juicy, they make the perfect summer fruit compote with a rich ice-cream. Or a delicious autumn tart with spicy cinnamon. Without getting carried away dreaming of desserts, we want to talk about the fruit’s oil and the benefits of apricot oil for skin (not just our taste buds).
Apricot oil benefits for skin
Apricot oil, or apricot kernel oil, comes from the aromatic and supple apricot fruit. Used as a carrier oil and often a hero ingredient, it’s sourced from the seeds, or kernels, of the apricots. By using a cold-pressed method, we maintain the high nutritional values of the unrefined apricot kernel oil as opposed to various extraction methods.
Often said to soften and strengthen the skin, apricot oil is making its way up the rankings of skin care ingredients. High in omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids plus a source of vitamin A, apricot oil for skin is a current fan favourite that provides a welcomed fresh and dewy glow. Our plant oils are rich in essential nutrients that elevate your skin care routine.
15 benefits and uses of apricot oil for your skin
1. Deeply nourishing
Rich with vitamins and minerals, apricot kernel oil is a plant-based ingredient that deeply nourishes the skin. As the skin is porous, and the texture of apricot oil ensures it penetrates through the protective surface layers providing a lasting effect.
2. Essential fatty acids
The fatty acid profile of the oil is what makes it so useful. Omega oils have been tried and tested at benefiting the skin’s natural protective barrier for centuries. Linoleic acid (omega 6) and oleic acid (omega 9) contents help keep the skin nourished and protected from harmful forces.
3. Rich in vitamin A and anti-ageing
Rich in vitamin A, this is beneficial to the production of cell turnover on our face. The oil is rich in compounds that speed up cell turnover. This promotes a more youthful-looking glow as the youngest cells are pushed to the surface.
Vitamin A provides essential support for the skin cells to plump the skin. This promotes the visible reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.
4. A dewy glow
Along with the previously mentioned vitamin A, the kernel oil is naturally high in vitamin E and C. The three work in conjunction to clarify the skin’s tone and complexion, promoting a natural glow.
5. Gives skin a satin-like, softer texture
When our skin gets the food it needs, then its texture naturally improves. The presence of vitamin A encourages the overall suppleness of the skin. As vitamin A acts as a natural exfoliant, softer and smoother skin is encouraged over time.
6. Long-lasting hydration
As a strong emollient, apricot kernel oil lubricates the skin by drawing moisture to the surface. It encourages the moisture from the elements and from the other steps in your skincare routine.
7. Contains essential vitamin B17
Laetrile, or amygdalin (B17), is a naturally occurring chemical compound often found in the pips of many fruits such as apricots, apples, peaches, plums, or red cherries. The body can’t naturally produce B17 but needs it for the functioning of the immune system and as a beneficial anti-inflammatory.
The presence of this vitamin in apricot kernel oil makes the oil a competitive choice for your skin’s overall health.
Promotes skin’s strength and elasticity
Our skin undergoes an array of daily stressors, from harsh weather conditions, makeup use, or polluting air environments.
Not to mention the effect our internal health has on the overall condition and appearance of our skin.
As we age, the effects of these elements play a role in the reduction of elasticity and cell damage to our skin. Vitamin A helps to encourage the strength of nutrients present in the skin.
8. Provides a protective barrier
As previously mentioned, the quicker turnover of cells ensures the skin is forming a strong barrier against oxidative damage. When used daily, apricot oil will nourish the skin and allow it to function properly, no matter your skin’s age. By using B17 rich skincare products, the skin is protected against free radicals that increase the signs of ageing.
9. Anti-inflammatory
As apricot oil is incredibly nourishing, it can help to soothe painful skin conditions such as psoriasis, acne and rosacea. Whenever you have a flare-up, products containing apricot oil will encourage healthier skin and help to destress.10. Fights acne-causing bacteria
Acne-prone skin would benefit from vitamin A in apricot oil. Vit A helps clogged pores rejuvenate, which may result in clearer skin in the long run.
As it’s a light carrier oil, you don’t have to worry about giving your pores too much to handle.
Its deep moisturising properties means that the pores don’t overwork themselves to provide vital surface hydration. The overproduction of sebum is often caused by an underlying dehydrated skin texture. Evidently, the skin is attempting to nourish itself. This build-up of sebum creates an unwanted clogging of pores and, finally, acne.
Incorporating apricot kernel oil into your routine will help correct the skin.
11. Kernels as a healthy snack
You could even go a step further and consume apricot kernel seeds to promote skin regeneration from within!
However, research shows that consumption of these foods for instant effects on the skin is difficult. The benefits from apricot kernels would need to pass through the digestive system first. Furthermore, it would need to be eaten in certain quantities for a longer period of time.
Although it couldn’t hurt, applying directly to the skin ensures it enters the system more quickly. Probably better to stick to skincare!
12. At home facial
If you’re wondering about how to use apricot oil for skin, then there’s no better way to use it than to create an at-home facial. First, we suggest having a warm shower to truly relax. This will also allow the steam to open up the pores and to prep the skin for absorption. Meanwhile, soak a face towel in a basin of warm water.
While in the shower (or after), use a gentle facial cleanser to ensure the skin is clean. Then, use your favourite moisturiser and add a few drops of apricot oil to create a DIY mix. Better yet, look for a moisturiser that already contains active apricot oil.
After application, wring out the face cloth (taking care not to burn your hands) and wrap it around your face for up to 10 minutes. Sit back and relax, and re-apply more moisturiser as needed.
13. Replenishing scrub
Apricot oil can also be used as a relaxing body scrub. After your steamy shower, mix some apricot kernel oil and a couple of drops of the Poko Luxury Facial Oil together with some sugar. We suggest brown as the granules are larger and less likely to dissolve.
Work in upward circular motions from your feet all the way up to your shoulders, taking care of the delicate chest area. We would not recommend this scrub for your face as it may be much too abrasive. The mixture of sugar granules and apricot oil after a hot shower will smooth the body’s skin and provide much-needed nourishment for dull skin.
14. Use alone or in a formula
A benefit of apricot oil is how versatile it is in order to care for your skin and your body’s overall health. The oil alone can be applied directly to the skin or work as an intensely hydrating hair and scalp mask.
Many skincare lovers are using apricot oil for the skin as a raw oil or are closely inspecting the ingredients list of skincare products in search of it. To reap the full benefits of apricot oil, we suggest using it in combination with other powerful active ingredients present in some of our favourite Poko products.
15. Apricot kernel oil can strengthen your skin
We’ve discussed how apricot kernel oil can soften your skin, and give you that dewy glow. However, did you know that it could also help strengthen your skin? This is because of its linoleic acid content. With regular application, you could see more hydrated skin – and an improved moisture barrier. When isolated, you can also use it all over your skin for improved skin health. Hydrate and strengthen the delicate skin on your lips, or the cracked and dehydrated skin on your hands. When it comes to strong and healthy skin, why not try adding apricot kernel oil to your skincare routine, and feel the difference?
