The hair benefits of apricot oil.

The apricot oil extracted from the kernels of Prunus armeniaca is a vegetable oil primarily composed of omega-9 (oleic acid) and omega-6 (linoleic acid). This richness in unsaturated fatty acids is the source of many of its hair benefits. Apricot oil can notably be used on the scalp to strengthen the hydrolipidic film present on its surface and soothe any potential irritations. However, it should be noted that the apricot oil has a relatively greasy texture. Therefore, it is generally recommended to incorporate a few drops into your shampoo and not to apply it pure on the scalp.

Beyond its moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties, apricot oil has demonstrated its ability to reduce oxidative stress within cells and eliminate free radicals. This antioxidant activity is particularly beneficial for protecting hair follicles at the root, which are vulnerable to free radical attacks. Indeed, the repeated action of these unstable molecules can disrupt the melanogenesis process and accelerate the onset of grey hair. Furthermore, free radicals can interfere with the hair cycle and precipitate hair loss. The antioxidant properties of apricot oil can help prevent these issues and protect the scalp and hair fibres.

Note : The antioxidant properties of apricot oil have been demonstrated in several studies in vitro but it is important to bear in mind that there is currently no evidence that this botanical extract can slow down the onset of grey hair and hair loss. However, it has been well established that apricot oil promotes hydration and soothing of the scalp.

Apricot oil is frequently used to care for one's hair, particularly in oil baths. Practised once or twice a week, this method deeply nourishes the hair fibres and helps them maintain their viscoelastic properties. However, be careful not to completely drench your hair in apricot oil. As mentioned earlier, this vegetable oil is relatively greasy and, if applied excessively, it could weigh down your hair and weaken it. Therefore, one to two drops per strand are more than sufficient.

The benefits of apricot oil on the texture, quality and shine of hair can once again be explained by its biochemical composition. Indeed, the oleic acid it contains is one of the natural constituents of sebum. This is synthesised by the sebaceous glands present in the scalp before naturally flowing along the hair fibres and coating them, thus ensuring their hydration and protection. However, the repeated friction against clothing or overly aggressive brushing can weaken this film. The application of apricot oil helps to restore it.

Furthermore, through biomimicry, apricot oil can penetrate the hair cuticle, the outermost part, in order to strengthen the intercellular cement composed of lipids. In doing so, it contributes to the cohesion of scale-like cells. This cohesion is necessary for the hair's impermeability and helps protect the inner layers such as the cortex. The latter is rich in keratin fibres, a structural protein that gives hair its flexibility and elasticity. While apricot vegetable oil can be used by all hair types, it is particularly beneficial for those with dry or damaged hair.

• QADIR R. & al. Cold pressed apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) kernel oil. Cold Pressed Oils (2020).

• NAZZARO F. & al. Fatty Acid Composition, Antioxidant, and in vitro Anti-inflammatory Activity of Five Cold-Pressed Prunus Seed Oils, and Their Anti-biofilm Effect Against Pathogenic Bacteria. Frontiers in Nutrition (2021).

• JI-SUN M. & JU-SUB K. Effects of Apricot Kernel Oil on Hair Texture Enhancement. Journal of Korean Applied Science and Technology (2021).