There's a certain kind of ingredient that never gets the loud, flashy attention, but quietly shows up in some of the best formulations out there.
Apricot Kernel Oil is exactly that. Not trendy or over-hyped. Just genuinely, reliably good.
If you've been sleeping on this one, here's your proper introduction.
We also currently have an overstock sale (50% Off) on our Cold Pressed Organic Apricot Oil.
We also offer convetional Cold Pressed Apricot Oil too.
So, What Even Is It?
Apricot Kernel Oil is cold-pressed from the little kernel sitting inside the apricot stone, Prunus armeniaca, if you want to get botanical about it.
The cosmetic-grade version is refined, pale yellow, nearly odourless, and has this light, silky texture that's hard not to love the moment it touches your skin.
Think of it as Sweet Almond Oil's slightly more refined sibling.
Same nurturing energy, just a little lighter, a little less heavy-handed.
Great for faces. Great for warm-weather formulas. Great for people who don't want their skin to feel like it's been wrapped in cling film.
🔬 What's Inside the Oil
Here's why it actually works:
- Oleic Acid (~60–65%) — the big softener. Helps skin feel smooth, comfortable, and moisturised without going heav
- Linoleic Acid (~20–26%) — the barrier supporter. Keeps the skin's natural defence layer happy and contributes to that breathable, non-greasy feel
- Natural Vitamin E (tocopherols) — a quiet antioxidant working in the background, good for both your skin and the oil's own shelf life
- Phytosterols — minor players, but they add a lovely soothing, conditioning quality
That oleic-linoleic balance is genuinely the sweet spot. Enough richness to nourish, enough lightness to not overwhelm.
Who Should Be Using It
Honestly? Most people. But it particularly shines for:
- Dry and mature skin — helps restore that soft, plump, comfortable appearance
- Sensitive skin — gentle enough for reactive skin, and even around the delicate eye area in well-made formulas
- Combination skin — light enough to use without guilt on oilier zones
- Hair and scalp — adds softness and shine without the heavy, weighed-down feeling
Comedogenic rating sits around 2 out of 5 — so low to moderate risk of clogging pores for most skin types. Patch test first, as always.
Why It Works for Australian Skin
Australian skin deals with a lot. UV exposure, dry winters down south, humid summers up north, it's a lot of extremes for one skin barrier to handle.
Apricot Kernel Oil is light enough to wear through summer without feeling suffocating, and nourishing enough to genuinely help through a Melbourne or Canberra winter.
It's also neutral enough to let your essential oils and fragrance blends take centre stage, which Australian formulators making scented skincare and massage products will appreciate.
🛒 A Practical Note on Stocking Up
Good quality cosmetic-grade Apricot Kernel Oil isn't always available in steady supply, harvest seasons, sourcing, and stock levels all play a role.
If it's already in one of your formulas, or you've been meaning to test it, this is genuinely a smart time to grab it.
Shop Apricot Kernel Oil at Craft 360 →
Important: This post is for general educational purposes and is not intended as medical, regulatory, or formulation advice. Always refer to your supplier's documentation and ensure your products meet applicable Australian regulations.
