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White wavy lines texture on a surfaceProfile: Apricot Vegetable Oil

Profile: Apricot Vegetable Oil

Commonly known as: Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil (INCI), Armenian plum.
Botanical name: Prunus armeniaca.
Extraction process: First cold pressing of almonds from apricot kernels derived from organic farming.
Family: Rosacea.
Part of the plant extracted: Almond kernels.
Location: Originally from Central Asia (China, Korea, Japan), it is now cultivated worldwide.
Flowering: From June until the end of summer (September).
Provenance, origin: Turkey.
Phytochemical composition: Polyunsaturated fatty acids (linoleic acid); monounsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid); saturated fatty acids (palmitic acid, stearic acid); phytosterols (beta-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol); vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol); carotenoids (beta-carotene).
Sensorial properties: Appearance: Fluid oily liquid; Colour: Amber-orange; Scent: Characteristic, light, bitter almond; Feel: Relatively greasy
Physical characteristics: Density: 0.91 - 0.92 g/cm3; Saponification Index: 185 - 195; Comedogenicity Index: 2 (low comedogenicity); Oxidative Potential: Not very stable.
Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, softening, healing, hydrating, illuminating, nourishing, firming.
Concerns: All skin types, especially dull and tired skin, mature skin and sensitive skin; All hair types.

Details

Properties

  • Anti-inflammatory: Alleviate and soothe irritations by inhibiting the synthesis of pro-inflammatory biomarkers and increasing the production of anti-inflammatory lipid mediators;

  • Antioxidant: Preventing cellular oxidative damage by protecting skin cells from oxidative stress through neutralisation of free radicals;

  • Hydrating: Limiting water loss and maintaining the hydration of the epidermis by capturing water molecules through phytosterols and strengthening the skin's lipid barrier by stimulating the production of ceramides;

  • Illuminating: Providing an immediate healthy glow to the skin thanks to the orange hue of the oil derived from the carotenoids present in its formula;

  • Firming: Maintaining skin firmness by inhibiting the activity of collagenase and elastase, enzymes that respectively catalyse the degradation reactions of collagen and elastin.

Applications

  • Facial Care (radiance serums, glow masks, moisturising creams, cleansing oils);

  • Body Care (after-sun oils, massage oils, tanning oils);

  • Hair Care (hair serums);

  • Makeups (bronzing concentrates, foundations).

Method of Preservation

Store in a dry place, protected from heat and direct sunlight.

Contraindications, Usage Precautions

Apricot kernel oil appears to be safe for topical application. It is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. However, its use is not recommended on baby skin. As for breastfeeding women or those who have just given birth, they need to be particularly cautious. Indeed, it is advised against applying apricot oil to the nipples or areas of the body that may come into contact with the baby. This is due to the potential traces of amygdalin it may contain, a molecule found in the apricot kernel that converts into cyanide upon ingestion.

Find out more

While it has been cultivated for over 2,000 years in Central Asia, the apricot was only introduced to Europe several hundred years after its arrival in Armenia. Indeed, traces of the apricot tree have been found in Armenia and Iran around the 1st century BC. Its scientific name "Prunus armeniaca" translates to "Armenian plum". Besides its sweet and slightly juicy flesh, the almonds found in apricot kernels are cold-pressed to extract an oil that is rich in carotenoids and essential fatty acids. This oil is highly valued for its numerous benefits, particularly in skincare.