Apricot Kernel Oil (Prunus armeniaca) is a silky, lightweight, and vitamin-rich oil that’s acclaimed in skincare for its ability to soothe, soften, and nourish the skin without feeling greasy. It's especially great for sensitive, dry, or mature complexions, thanks to its gentle nature and affinity with the skin’s own lipids.

What is Apricot Oil?

Apricot oil is cold-pressed from the kernels (seeds) of apricots, and its composition is similar to almond oil—but lighter in texture and more easily absorbed. It’s a pale yellow, nearly odorless oil that feels smooth and non-irritating, making it perfect for delicate or compromised skin.

How is Apricot Oil used in skincare?

Apricot oil is typically used:

• As a facial oil for softening and smoothing
• In baby care products because it’s so gentle
• As a massage oil or carrier oil for essential oils
• Applied to chapped lips, cuticles, or eczema patches
• In moisturizers, cleansing oils, lip balms, eye creams, and body lotions
• In anti-aging, calming, and hydrating skincare lines
• For gentle exfoliants or overnight treatment oils

What are the benefits of Apricot Oil for your complexion and skin microbiome?

Apricot Kernel Oil (Prunus armeniaca) is gentle and supportive of the skin microbiome, especially for dry, sensitive, or mature skin types. While it’s not a prebiotic or probiotic ingredient in the strict sense, it helps the microbiome thrive by reinforcing the skin barrier, reducing inflammation, and providing nourishing fatty acids that don't disrupt microbial balance. Here’s why apricot oil is beneficial to your skin health:

• Deep Moisturizing Without Greasiness: Rich in emollient fatty acids, apricot oil penetrates easily and nourishes deeply. It’s great for dry, tight, or peeling skin.
• Soothes Sensitive or Irritated Skin: Apricot oil calms inflammation, redness, or mild dermatitis. It’s very gentle—making it ideal for eczema, rosacea, or post-sun exposure.
• Improves Skin Tone & Texture: Its natural vitamin A content smooths roughness and may soften fine lines. It encourages cell turnover and brightens dull skin.
• Anti-Inflammatory & Calming: Inflammation and dysbiosis (microbial imbalance) often go hand-in-hand. Apricot oil is rich in phytosterols and vitamin E, which reduce irritation and oxidative stress—creating a more stable, less reactive environment for beneficial microbes.
• Protects Against Environmental Stress: Antioxidants like vitamin E help shield skin from UV damage and pollution. Apricot oil slows the signs of premature aging and supports skin elasticity.
• Non-Antimicrobial & Non-Stripping: Unlike some essential oils, apricot oil is non-stripping, pH-neutral and non-antimicrobial—so it doesn’t kill off good bacteria. It acts as a nurturing base that preserves microbial diversity.
• Strengthens the Lipid Barrier: A strong barrier is essential for microbiome balance—it creates a safe, stable environment for beneficial microbes to flourish. Apricot oil contains oleic acid (omega-9), which softens and protects and linoleic acid (omega-6), which reinforces the stratum corneum, helping retain moisture and reduce inflammation. By helping with TEWL (transepidermal water loss), apricot oil also prevents stress that can lead to microbial imbalances.