Apricot kernel oil
The beauty booster that enhances your wellbeing
editorial.overview
What is apricot kernel oil?
The apricot tree originally comes from China and reached Europe via Armenia. Because it was initially assumed that the fruit originated in Armenia, it was given the Latin name Prunus armeniaca („armenische Pflaume”).
The oil is extracted from apricot kernels by cold pressing. Wild apricot oil has a slightly bitter taste, while cultivated apricot oil is more sweet. The majority of oil production is refined, as apricot kernel oil goes rancid quickly.
This process removes most of the flavour and scent compounds as well as pigments from the oil. Apricot kernel oil is 100% an essential oil. To avoid possible overdosing, a non-essential carrier oil is added during the manufacture of apricot kernel oil.
Which fatty acids are present in apricot kernel oil and how do they affect the skin?
The largest portion of apricot kernel oil consists of oleic acid. This is an important unsaturated Omega-9 fatty acid that our body cannot produce on its own. Oleic acid moisturises the skin, cares for dry, cracked skin and split, brittle hair.
Linoleic acid is an Omega-6 fatty acid. As a component of the epidermis it regulates water balance and contributes to maintaining the skin's natural barrier function. Linoleic acid is particularly good for dry skin and helps with blackheads, contact dermatitis, light damage and other skin irritations.
Linolenic acid is an Omega-3 fatty acid that is effective against acne and other inflammatory skin conditions and protects the skin from premature ageing.
A component of the skin's acid mantle that is also present in apricot kernel oil is palmitic acid. It therefore contributes to overall skin care.
Stearic acid has a cleansing effect, is important for regulating the skin's moisture balance and provides shine and strength to the hair.
Wie wenden Sie Aprikosenkernöl heute an?
Which vitamins does apricot kernel oil contain and what benefits do they offer?
Tocopherol has a strong antioxidant effect, is an excellent protection for sensitive skin and helps to smooth wrinkles and increase the skin's resilience.
Vitamin A regenerates the skin, contributes to cell growth, protects cells from free radicals and makes the skin smooth, supple and resilient.
Niacinamide can reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots, stimulates collagen production, protects the skin from harmful UV rays and promotes the skin's natural regeneration.
editorial.facts
- Apricot kernel oil is often simply called apricot oil. However, it is not extracted from the fruit itself but from the fruit's kernel.
- Wild apricot kernels have a bitter taste and a much higher amygdalin content than kernels from cultivated apricots.
- Apricot kernels are used to make persipan, a marzipan‑like mass.
- The stones of the sweet apricot are elongated, oval, bulging and pointed on one side. In contrast, the stones of wild apricots have a more compact shape and are somewhat smaller. They usually reach a size of about 2.5 cm.
How does apricot kernel oil affect skin and hair?
Apricot kernel oil is quickly absorbed, penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin and leaves a delicate skin feel. Due to its unique composition, the oil activates the metabolic processes of the skin, firms the tissue, ensures good moisture retention, soothes irritated and sensitive skin, nourishes dry and cracked skin and makes a pale complexion look fresher.
In hair care too, apricot kernel oil unfolds its effects. It acts against dandruff and scalp itching, can promote hair growth and moisturise the hair so that it remains supple and gains volume.
What health benefits does taking apricot kernel oil offer?
Thanks to the fatty acids it contains, it supports the cardiovascular system and helps to lower cholesterol levels and prevent arteriosclerosis. The B‑group vitamins it contains also have a positive effect on the nervous system, are involved in metabolism and support the build-up and transformation of proteins.
Vitamin B17 (amygdalin) is even credited with a cancer‑preventive effect. Apricot kernel oil is also used in aromatherapy: it awakens positive emotions, has a stimulating effect and increases well‑being, supporting and strengthening the immune system.
How this natural all‑rounder unfolds its full potential: application tips
- As a food oil, unrefined, cold‑pressed apricot kernel oil is used. It is suitable as a base for salad dressings and desserts. It should not be used for frying or cooking, as it would lose its flavour, aroma and active ingredients and produce unhealthy fumes.
- For general skin care, the oil is simply applied to the affected areas. It is particularly valuable for dry, flaky and sensitive skin.
- Apricot kernel oil is suitable as a make‑up remover. It dissolves excess skin oil, dirt particles and make‑up from the skin while moisturizing the skin at the same time. For cleansing, you can put a few drops on a cotton pad and gently wipe over the face.
- Daily application of apricot kernel oil under the eyes can reduce dark circles and puffiness and strengthen the thin skin there. This can also minimise wrinkles.
- For a homemade scrub, mix one tablespoon of apricot kernel oil with half a tablespoon of brown sugar and apply to the skin with circular motions. For a coarser body scrub, the sugar can be replaced with oats.
- For an intensive moisturising mask for dry skin, mix one tablespoon of apricot kernel oil with two tablespoons of quark, apply to the face, leave on for 20 minutes and wash off with lukewarm water.
- After a sunburn, the oil is applied to the affected areas. It soothes discomfort and supplies the skin with moisture.
- Apricot kernel oil can also help with dry hands and brittle nails. Apply it directly to the fingernails or rub it into the hands before going to bed and leave it on overnight.
- You can even shave with apricot kernel oil. Put a few drops on the moistened skin and rub in – the razor will glide gently over the skin.
- For brittle and fragile hair, apricot kernel oil provides more strength and shine. As a treatment after shampooing, massage into the entire length of the hair, leave on for approx. 15–30 minutes and rinse out. For dry hair ends, it is enough to massage a small amount of the oil into the lower parts of the hair and not rinse out.
- Apricot kernel oil is excellent as a regenerating massage oil after sports.
- Apricot kernel oil contains hydrocyanic acid (cyanide), which at low doses can be broken down by the body. For this reason, apricot kernel oil should always be used in low doses.
Try apricot kernel oil yourself: it makes your skin wonderfully soft and gives it a fresh radiance!
