This amazing oil is extracted from apricot kernels. The same shape as almonds, but smaller and whiter, apricot kernels are found at the centre of apricot stones. If you eat a fresh apricot and keep the stone, you can use a nutcracker or hammer to extract the kernel on the outside.
So why are apricot kernels good for the skin?
Apart from amygdalin, apricot kernels contain high levels of Vitamin E and A. These are great to promote healing and prevent skin damage from free radicals, because they have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The kernels also contain linoleic acid, a polyunsaturated fat. If you are deficient in linoleic acid, you could suffer from skin flaking and poor wound healing. Apricot kernel oil can help to maintain good levels of linoleic acid and minimise skin problems. Not only is apricot kernel oil helpful for your skin, it’s also an effective carrier oil, as it is good at delivering nutrients in other oils to the cells that need it.
Application on your skin feels wonderful. Apricot kernel oil smells lightly nutty and sweet, doesn’t feel greasy and absorbs quickly into the skin.
