Vegetable oils have been used since ancient times to treat various skin problems. Despite the emergence of many modern skin care products, many people prefer to use natural products to avoid any side effects. Among these oils, apricot oil is one of the most popular options available, as it is now called "natural Botox for the skin." In this article, Dalili Medical will review the benefits of apricot oil for the skin and ways to use it.

Does apricot oil cause acne?

 

Apricot oil is an excellent choice for people with oily skin, as it has wonderful benefits for the skin without leading to acne as is commonly believed. Apricot oil contains rich ingredients that deeply moisturize the skin and cleanse it of excess oils, which helps prevent clogged pores that may lead to acne. In addition, apricot oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which contribute to reducing inflammation and congestion that may affect oily skin and increase the likelihood of acne. Therefore, apricot oil is a safe and effective option for those who suffer from oily skin problems without having to worry about worsening acne.

**What is apricot oil?**

 

Apricot oil is a type of oil that is usually extracted from the kernel of apricot seeds using the cold-press method, and is characterized by a high percentage of oil.

Apricot oil has a nutty flavor and a fragrant smell, but it should be noted that there are two different types of it, as each of them differs in its uses:

. **Apricot oil for oral consumption** This type is used as a substitute for almond oil in cooking, due to its high burning point. It also has a mild flavor, which makes it not affect the taste of foods.

. **Apricot oil for cosmetic purposes** This type contains a high percentage of vitamin E, and is characterized by a texture that is easily absorbed by the skin, which makes it commonly used in its natural form. It is also used in the composition of some skin care products.

Apricot oil is considered one of the natural oils rich in many important nutrients, such as:

- Vitamin K

- Vitamin E

- Antioxidants

**Apricot oil ingredients**

Apricot kernel oil is characterized by its composition rich in nutrients that are beneficial for oily skin. It contains a group of antioxidant vitamins, such as vitamins A, C and E, which contribute to protecting the skin and renewing its cells. Apricot oil also contains omega-6 fatty acids that moisturize the skin and give it a touch of shine and vitality.

In addition, apricot oil contains unique nutrients such as linoleic acid and oleic acid, which help regulate the secretion of natural oils in the skin. This contributes to reducing the clogging of pores and limiting the appearance of pimples and acne that oily skin suffers from. Thanks to these rich natural ingredients, apricot oil is an ideal choice for improving the condition of oily skin and addressing the problems associated with it.

**What makes apricot oil unique?**

 

Apricot oil is a rich source of essential nutrients, such as vitamin E and fatty acids, which contribute to significantly enhancing the health of the skin and hair. Here are some properties that highlight the importance of this oil:

- **Deep moisturizing:** Nourishes the skin and gives it a healthy appearance.

- **Anti-inflammatory properties:** Helps soothe skin inflammation.

**Types of Apricot Oil**

There are two main types of apricot oil, each with its own uses:

1. **Apricot oil for oral consumption**: It is usually used as a substitute for cooking oils, thanks to its high smoke point. It is characterized by its light taste that does not affect the flavor of foods.

2. **Apricot oil for cosmetic purposes**: It contains a high concentration of vitamin E and antioxidants, making it ideal for skin and hair care.

**Benefits of apricot oil**

 

. **Improving hair health**Apricot oil can be used to enhance the health and appearance of hair, as it may contribute to:

- Strengthening hair strands.

- Improving the health of hair follicles.

- Reducing the negative effect of testosterone on hair health, which can sometimes lead to slow hair growth or hair loss.

- Relieving symptoms associated with some skin problems that affect the scalp, such as dandruff.

. **Anti-inflammatory**Apricot oil may help relieve symptoms associated with some inflammatory conditions, as it contains chemical compounds that may have natural anti-inflammatory properties, such as:

- One study showed that this oil may help prevent ulcerative colitis.

- It has been shown that using it topically on the skin may help relieve symptoms associated with some inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis and gout.

. **Improving skin and complexion health**Apricot oil contains a variety of beneficial nutrients

. Promoting heart health Apricot oil contains compounds that may contribute to stimulating some internal reactions when they enter the body, which may help prevent some heart and circulatory system problems, especially heart attacks.

. Reducing complications of chemotherapy ** Taking this oil during chemotherapy can help relieve the side effects associated with this type of treatment.

A study showed that taking doses of this oil during chemotherapy may help:

- Reducing the damage that chemotherapy may cause to some internal organs.

- Promoting the growth and development of healthy cells in the body.

- Improving the levels of some important indicators and substances that fight diseases in white blood cells.

What are the uses of apricot oil?

 

Apricot oil is commonly used in massage sessions, but its benefits go far beyond that, as it can be used in several ways:

Contains essential fatty acids: The presence of fatty acids in apricot oil makes it very beneficial. Omega oils have been tested to confirm their benefits in strengthening the skin's natural barrier.Apricot oil components, such as linoleic acid (omega 6) and oleic acid (omega 9), help keep the skin nourished and protected from harmful factors.

Apricot oil is rich in vitamin A and anti-aging: This oil is considered beneficial in the production and renewal of skin cells, as it contains compounds that enhance the speed of cell renewal, giving the skin a more youthful glow. Vitamin A also supports skin cells, which helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, the kernel oil contains large amounts of vitamins E and C, which contribute to unifying skin tone and enhancing its natural glow.

Gives the skin a silky smooth texture: When our skin receives the necessary nourishment, its texture and feel improve naturally. Vitamin A in the oil plays an important role in increasing the elasticity of the skin, as it acts as a natural moisturizer, which leads to noticeable smoothness of the skin over time.

Long-lasting Hydration: Apricot oil is an effective humectant, drawing moisture from the air to the surface of the skin, making it a great addition to your skincare routine.

It contains essential vitamin B17, a naturally occurring chemical compound commonly found in many fruits such as apricots, apples, plums, and red cherries. The body cannot produce vitamin B17 naturally, but it needs it to boost immune function and is an effective anti-inflammatory. The presence of this vitamin in apricot kernel oil makes it an excellent choice for your skin health.

Enhance skin strength and elasticity: Our skin is exposed to many daily stressors, such as harsh weather conditions, the use of cosmetics, and air pollution, in addition to the impact of our internal health on the appearance of our skin. As we age, these factors play a role in reducing skin elasticity and cell damage. Vitamin A helps boost the power of nutrients in the skin to combat these effects.

Provides a protective barrier: Apricot oil nourishes the skin and gives it a more youthful appearance, regardless of its age, by using skincare products rich in apricot oil, which contains vitamin B17. This oil protects the skin from free radicals that contribute to signs of aging.

Anti-inflammatory: Thanks to its skin-nourishing properties, apricot oil can help soothe painful skin conditions such as acne and rosacea. In addition, products containing apricot oil promote healthy skin and help relieve the effects of stress.

**Apricot Oil: Uses and Benefits**

 

**Cooking Oil:** Apricot oil is an excellent choice as a versatile cooking oil, as it is classified as a food suitable for consumption. It is rich in monounsaturated fats, which may help reduce harmful cholesterol levels, especially when used in cooking instead of lard, butter, and other sources of saturated fats.

**Skin Nourishment:** Apricot oil has a similar fatty composition to that of human skin. When the levels of fats in the skin are low, it becomes dry and irritated, and this is where apricot oil comes in to relieve and treat the roughness and damage resulting from this condition. Its light texture is also easily absorbed by the skin.

**Maintaining skin moisture:** Apricot oil helps strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, which helps maintain moisture.

**Eczema:** Apricot oil is effective in relieving itching and skin irritation caused by eczema, as it is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.

**Anti-wrinkle:** Apricot oil helps prevent wrinkles and fights signs of aging.

Apricot oil is a carrier oil that can be used to dilute essential oils such as lavender or chamomile, making it ideal for making massage oils. It is recommended to add 25 drops of essential oils to about 60 ml of apricot oil to get a massage oil suitable for adults.

**Exfoliating the skin:** Apricot oil restores vitality and softness to the skin by mixing it with sugar and gently rubbing the face with this mixture. This helps cleanse the skin and remove impurities, dead skin cells and blackheads, and also helps clean the pores.

**Skin Moisturizing:** Apricot oil is effective in moisturizing very dry areas of the skin, such as the heels, elbows, hands and feet, giving them noticeable softness.

**Night skin moisturizing:** Apricot oil can be used as a night moisturizer by mixing it with an essential oil as desired, then massaging the skin with it after cleaning and disinfecting it. This helps open clogged pores and get rid of the shine of the nose skin, in addition to moisturizing dry skin.

Skin care: Apricot oil is lightweight, making it an ideal moisturizer for normal and oily skin, as it does not leave a heavy oily layer on the skin, but rather helps restore its moisture.

**Skin nourishment:** Apricot oil is characterized by its rich composition of linoleic acid, vitamin A, and vitamin E, in addition to its anti-inflammatory properties. These ingredients make it an effective oil in rejuvenating the skin, unifying its color, and delaying signs of aging, as well as soothing skin affected by eczema.

**Increase skin elasticity:** Apricot oil helps maintain skin elasticity and clarity thanks to its vitamin E content. Skin elasticity is one of the essential factors for maintaining youthful skin, as the antioxidants in apricot oil fight free radical damage and inflammation. Unsaturated fatty acids also contribute to improving skin elasticity by enhancing the elasticity of skin cell membranes.

**Anti-aging skin:** Apricot oil contains vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin A, all of which are antioxidants that help stimulate collagen production, giving the skin firmness and suppleness. Therefore, this oil helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin roughness, and repair damage caused by ultraviolet rays.

Removing makeup: Apricot oil is an effective way to easily remove oily makeup, without the need to rub the skin with water. It also removes dirt and works to maintain the skin's moisture after applying makeup, by locking in moisture. In addition, it helps treat the skin and gives it a soft and silky texture, thanks to its vitamin A content, which is easily absorbed by the skin and reaches deep within it to rebuild its cell membranes. Apricot oil is also an excellent moisturizer for dry, sensitive and flaky skin.

**Helps treat acne and its effects:** A few drops of an essential oil such as tea tree oil, lavender oil or sandalwood oil can be mixed with apricot oil, which acts as a carrier oil to dilute essential oils. This mixture is used to help treat acne and its effects.

**Getting rid of melasma:** Apricot oil is used in the manufacture of skin care products due to its natural properties in exfoliating and lightening the skin. Apricot oil contains fatty acids and vitamins (A, C, E) that deeply nourish the skin, helping to reduce inflammation and remove melasma spots. This can be achieved by applying a few drops of the oil to the skin using a cotton ball twice daily until melasma spots fade.

Body massage treatments with oils: Bitter apricot oil is commonly used in body massage treatments, such as aromatherapy and Swedish massage, due to its high content of vitamin E, in addition to its long shelf life. This oil is considered light, which makes it easily absorbed by the skin. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat skin problems, as it works as a moisturizer and nourisher, and helps prevent dry skin. It can also be used to treat psoriasis, promote skin healing, and relieve rashes and itching. In addition, it helps tighten the skin and prevent the appearance of fine lines. Apricot oil is considered one of the best oils used in massage, as it helps relieve tension, pain, and skin inflammation.

**Ways to Use Apricot Oil for Skin**

 

Apricot oil is a great choice for skin care, as it can be used in a variety of ways to get the most out of its beauty benefits.

**Use it as a daily moisturizer**You can use apricot oil as an effective daily moisturizer to nourish your skin. Follow these steps:

- **Apply it after washing your face**: Put a few drops of the oil on your hands and gently massage it on your face.

- **Focus on dry areas**: Make sure to use it on areas that suffer from dryness, such as the cheeks.

This will help maintain your skin's moisture and give it a healthy appearance.

**Add it to your skin care routine**Apricot oil can be easily incorporated into your skin care routine. For example:

- **As a carrier oil for essential oils**: Mix it with essential oils such as lavender oil for softer skin.

- **Use it as a makeup remover**: It can be used to effectively remove makeup, helping to deeply cleanse the skin.

**As a face mask** Mix 2 tablespoons of apricot oil with 1 teaspoon of matcha powder and 1 tablespoon of honey. Then, spread the mixture on damp skin. Leave it for 10 minutes and then wash it off with warm water. It is preferable to use it twice a week for best results.

**– As a skin cleanser:** Mix a few drops of essential oils with 20 ml of apricot oil. Then massage the mixture into your skin and leave it for 30 minutes before rinsing it well. It is preferable to repeat this method three times a week.

**– As a sealant:** After completing your skincare routine, apply 2-3 drops of apricot oil to your face and massage it gently. Leave it on overnight to lock in the benefits of your skincare products. It is recommended to use it daily.

**– As a massage oil:** Mix 25 drops of any essential oil with 60 ml of apricot oil, then store the mixture in a glass jar. Use this mixture to massage your body before showering, and continue using it daily to get soft and fresh skin.

**- As a body scrub:**You can use apricot oil as a body scrub. After a steamy shower, mix a tablespoon of apricot oil with two drops of buko oil and a little brown sugar. Then, massage your body in an upward circular motion from your feet to your shoulders, focusing on the sensitive chest area. The mixture of sugar and apricot oil after a hot shower will help soften your body skin and provide it with the necessary nourishment.

**Natural skin care recipes**

 

**Makeup remover:** Put a small amount of oil on a clean cotton pad, then use it to remove makeup, then wash your face with the cleanser.

**Skin scrub:** Mix a quantity of sugar with apricot oil, then use the mixture on wet skin and massage it with your fingertips for two minutes. If your skin is oily, you can add a little lemon juice. Repeat this method twice a week.

**Massage Oil:** To boost blood circulation to your face and add vitality, mix 10 drops of lavender oil with 60 ml of apricot oil. Use the mixture in circular motions, and it can also be used as a substitute for a body moisturizer.

**Treatment of acne and flaky skin:** Mix 60 ml of apricot kernel oil with 2 drops of rosemary oil and 2 drops of tea tree essential oil. Gently massage the mixture onto the affected areas of the skin.

**Moisturizing the skin:** Put a cup of melted shea butter and a quarter cup of apricot kernel oil in a bowl, and mix them well. Put the mixture in the refrigerator, and the next morning, add drops of tea tree oil and mix well. Use this mixture as a natural moisturizer for the face and body.

**Apricot oil, honey, cocoa butter, and sesame** This combination is used to make a natural anti-wrinkle and anti-aging night cream. Here's how to prepare it:

**Ingredients:**

- 1 tablespoon of cocoa butter

- 1/2 tablespoon of dark organic honey

- 2 drops of sesame oil

- 2 drops of apricot oil

**How ​​to prepare:**

Mix the ingredientsMix well until you have a smooth and creamy mixture.

**Shea Butter, Apricot Oil, and Essential Oil Recipe**This recipe is used to make a homemade skin moisturizer, and is ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Here's how to make it:

**Ingredients:**

- 1/2 cup of shea butter

- 2 tablespoons of apricot oil

- 10-15 drops of essential oil (you can use 2-3 different types of essential oils to get the desired number of drops)

- Heat-resistant glass bowl

- Electric or hand mixer or food processor

- Glass storage jar

**How ​​to prepare:**

1. Fill the bottom of a pan with water to a height of about 2.5 cm to 5 cm, then place it on the heat.

2. Place the glass bowl (heat-safe) over the pan, making sure it does not touch the water.

3. Melt the shea butter in the glass bowl, stirring occasionally.

4. After the shea butter melts, add the apricot oil to it and mix well. (Jojoba oil can also be used.)

You can use sweet almond oil or avocado oil, or you can combine two different types of them. It is recommended to put the mixture in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes, taking care not to freeze it completely. Then, add 10-15 drops of various essential oils, and you can choose 2-3 types of them, such as: five drops of lavender oil, three drops of carrot seed oil, and three drops of sage oil. The mixture is whipped using an electric or manual whisk or a food processor until we get a creamy texture. Transfer the cream to a glass jar using a rubber spatula. Store the cream in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and it can be used within a period ranging from 6 to 12 months.

**Tips for Using Apricot Oil**

If you are using apricot oil for oily skin, here are some useful tips:

**Cleanse your skin**: Before applying apricot oil, make sure to cleanse your skin well to remove impurities and dirt. You can use a cleanser that suits your skin type.

. **Moisturize your skin**: After cleansing, apply a small amount of apricot oil to your skin and gently absorb it using circular motions. Apricot oil effectively moisturizes the skin without clogging pores.

. **Oil massage**: You can use apricot oil as a massage oil, as it helps soothe the skin and improve its overall appearance.

**Use it as a mask**: You can mix apricot oil with other natural ingredients such as honey or yogurt to use it as a face mask.

**How ​​to store apricot oil properly**

 

When purchasing natural apricot oil to care for your oily skin, it is important to store it properly to maintain its quality and effectiveness. Here are some simple tips:

1. **Store in a cool, dark place**: Store apricot oil away from direct sunlight and excessive heat to avoid any changes in its composition.

2. **Tightly seal the bottle**: Make sure to tightly seal the apricot oil bottle after each use.