Apricot Kernel Oil: A Gentle Face & Body Oil — Benefits, the Science & How to Use It

Apricot kernel oil is one of the gentlest plant oils you can put on your skin. Cold-pressed from the kernel inside the apricot stone, it is a light, fast-absorbing carrier oil that suits most skin types — including sensitive and mature skin. If you find heavier oils greasy, apricot kernel oil is a lovely everyday alternative for face, body and hair.

Why do people use apricot kernel oil?

• Lightweight & non-greasy — it sinks in quickly, making it a comfortable daily face and body oil.
• Softens & conditions — as an emollient it helps skin feel smooth and supple.
• Helps lock in moisture — a thin layer may help reduce the water that evaporates from the skin's surface.
• Gentle on sensitive skin — it is mild and generally well tolerated, and is often used in baby and massage blends.
• A nourishing carrier oil — it dilutes essential oils beautifully and works as a base for facial serums and massage.

What the research says

Apricot kernel oil is rich in oleic and linoleic fatty acids along with vitamin E and plant antioxidants (polyphenols). Here is an honest look at the evidence. (General information, not medical advice.)

• Reviews of topical plant oils suggest that fatty-acid-rich oils can support the skin barrier and help reduce transepidermal water loss — that is, they may help skin hold onto moisture.
• Laboratory analyses confirm apricot kernel oil contains antioxidant polyphenols and is mainly oleic and linoleic acid, which is consistent with its emollient, conditioning feel.
• Much of the deeper research (anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects) comes from lab and animal studies rather than large human skincare trials, so these findings are promising but not proof of specific skin benefits.
• In practice, apricot kernel oil's best-evidenced role is simple and useful: a gentle, moisturising emollient and a good carrier oil.

How to use it

1. Face oil: after cleansing, warm 2–3 drops between your palms and press gently over damp skin, morning or night.
2. Body & massage: smooth over slightly damp skin after a shower, or use as a slip-rich massage oil.
3. Carrier for essential oils: blend a few drops of an essential oil into 10ml of apricot kernel oil before applying to skin.
4. Hair & ends: rub a little through dry ends to tame frizz and add softness.
5. Patch test first: apply a small amount to your inner arm and wait 24 hours before wider use.

Our apricot kernel oil range

• Natural Stuff 100% Pure Cold-Pressed Apricot Kernel Oil — available in 50ml, 100ml and 200ml.
• Botalife Apricot Kernel Oil — cold-pressed, for skin and hair.

FAQ

Is apricot kernel oil good for oily or acne-prone skin? It is light and absorbs well, so many people with combination skin enjoy it. As with any oil, start with a small amount and see how your skin responds.

Is it comedogenic (does it clog pores)? It is generally considered low to moderate on the pore-clogging scale, but everyone's skin is different — patch test first.

Can I use it around the eyes? Yes, it is gentle and often used to soften the delicate eye area — just keep it out of the eyes themselves.

References & further reading

• Lin et al. Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. Int J Mol Sci, 2018.
• Unlocking the Therapeutic and Antimicrobial Potential of Prunus armeniaca L. Seed Kernel Oil. 2024.
• The Role of Linoleic Acid in Skin and Hair Health: A Review. 2024.

This article is for general information only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Apricot kernel oil here refers to the cold-pressed cosmetic oil for external use — do not eat raw apricot kernels or kernel products not intended for consumption. If you have a known nut allergy, sensitive skin or are pregnant, patch test first and check with your healthcare practitioner before use.