The aromatic oily liquid will fill the skin with life-giving moisture. Once you get acquainted with this wonderful product, you will maintain your “friendship” for many years. Apricot oil for face is a basic foundation for regular skin care. It has a delicate texture and a pleasant fruity smell.
Oil is obtained from fruit seeds by cold pressing, which allows you to preserve all its valuable qualities. Use in cosmetology is due to the remarkable properties of the product: wound healing, moisturizing, rejuvenating. The product helps eliminate dry skin, makes it firm and elastic, and protects against premature aging. It promotes the production of its own collagen and elastin fibers, which are the structural basis of the dermis.
Composition and beneficial properties
Apricot kernel oil is produced through cold pressing. The technology ensures the preservation of vitamin and mineral complexes, microelements and fruit acids. The oil contains the following useful components:
- vitamins A, C, E, F, group B;
- fatty acids (stearic, oleic, palmitic, linoleic);
- phytosterols;
- potassium;
- calcium;
- manganese;
- magnesium;
- iron;
- copper;
- zinc;
- potassium salts;
- natural wax.
The benefits of apricot oil on the skin are complex, product:
- slows down the aging process of cells;
- promotes regeneration and formation of collagen and elastin;
- prevents and heals inflammatory processes;
- improves tone and elasticity of tissues;
- regulates cell hydrobalance;
- stabilizes intercellular metabolism;
- smoothing out wrinkles and unevenness;
- eliminates sagging, improves the shade of the dermis;
- reduces the severity of the vascular network;
- improves the absorption of nutrients;
- eliminates dehydration and tightness;
- normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands;
- reduces the severity of age spots;
- starts regeneration processes;
- creates protection against ultraviolet radiation;
- eliminates dermatitis, swelling;
- reduces irritation of sensitive dermis;
- reduces rashes, acne;
- enhances protection from external influences and temperature changes;
- activates blood circulation processes in cells.
Experts recommend purchasing apricot oil in dark glass containers. To preserve beneficial characteristics, the product is placed in a cold place, the container must be tightly closed.
Contraindications and possible harm
As noted earlier, apricot oil causes virtually no negative reactions. Very rarely, its use causes allergic reactions. It is not recommended to use the product for instillation into the nose if a person has a tendency to nosebleeds. To eliminate possible risks, a sensitivity test should be done before use.
Helpful advice. To ensure that the oil does not lose its beneficial qualities, it must be stored correctly. For this purpose, it is recommended to use a container with a tight-fitting lid. The drug should not be exposed to light or high temperatures. Under favorable conditions, apricot oil retains its properties for 6 to 12 months.
Apricot oil fully justifies the comparison with gold, since its beneficial properties can provide invaluable support to the body. A product unique in nature will help preserve youth and natural attractiveness for many years.
The benefits of many cosmetic oils for beauty and health have long been known. Oil obtained from apricot kernels is one of the most accessible and versatile. Thanks to its rich composition, the product has a wide range of applications.
How to use apricot oil?
In cosmetology, oil is included in compositions for the care of various types of dermis. The ingredient is added to compresses, creams, masks, cleansing milk, tonics, lotions, and in its natural form is used for rubbing and massages. To achieve a stable effect, treatment courses are required. Typically, 10–15 nursing sessions are performed, which are carried out 2–3 times a week. The oil can be used regularly in creams and cosmetic milks.
When preparing cosmetics at home and choosing recipes for facial care, the compatibility of products is taken into account. Apricot extract can be combined with the following universal base and essential extracts:
- almond;
- wheat germ;
- avocado;
- jojoba;
- ylang-ylang;
- lavender;
- sandalwood;
- rosemary;
- citrus fruits;
- peppermint;
- neroli;
- roses;
- tea tree.
In its purest form
Hypoallergenic oil can be used in its natural form without additives. The composition is popular for use against wrinkles, peeling, rashes, and acne.
The oil extract is used in the form of rubbing; the procedure is performed in the evening and replaces skin moisturizing with a nourishing regenerating cream. When carrying out a treatment course, it is necessary to apply the product to the skin daily using cotton wool. The oil is quickly absorbed and nourishes the dermal cells with vitamin complexes. Experts recommend using a winter care method for dry skin.
To care for the delicate skin of the eyelids and around the eyes to prevent swelling and early wrinkles, apricot extract is used, which is applied instead of a nourishing cream 1 hour before bedtime. The composition is distributed with patting movements. If you have wrinkles, you can regularly make lotions with herbal extract. The composition is applied generously to the skin of the eyelids, you need to relax in a horizontal position until absorbed, the remains are blotted with a cotton pad.
The oil is used to moisturize the skin of the lips and is recommended for restoring the delicate dermis in the autumn-winter period. It is necessary to regularly lubricate the skin of the lips with oil extract 1-2 times a day.
Apricot extract is used to massage the face to restore the tone of aging skin. The procedure allows you to relax facial muscles and reduce the severity of wrinkles.
For a cleansing and anti-inflammatory composition, you need to heat apricot oil (1 tsp), add essential concentrates of tea tree and lavender (1-2 drops each). The ingredients are mixed and applied with a brush to problem areas of the face. You don’t have to wash off the oils, leaving them until absorbed. The product helps mattify the skin, tighten pores, and prevent inflammatory processes.
Compress
Hot compresses are used as a regenerating remedy for wrinkles. The procedure requires apricot kernel extract, cotton fabric or gauze with slits, and a decoction of chamomile.
The session includes successive stages:
- in a metal bowl you need to heat 3 tbsp. l. oils;
- the warm composition is applied to the dermis in 2–3 layers;
- gauze is moistened in chamomile decoction and applied to the skin on top;
- After 30 minutes, the cloth is removed and the skin is treated with a decoction.
Heated oil enhances the effect of nutritional components, cleanses the skin of blackheads, and helps eliminate acne.
To reduce the severity of wrinkles around the eyes, apply a compress of oil extract. You need to cut the cotton pad into 2 parts, heat the oil (2 tablespoons). Cotton wool is soaked in the warm mixture and applied to the eyelids and the area around the eyes. You need to relax and take a horizontal position; the compress lasts 30 minutes.
Masks
Apricot extract is used as a base for cream masks. Experts recommend using the recipe for 1-2 months, then changing combinations of ingredients to maintain effectiveness.
The following ingredients are included in the mask for oily skin:
- apricot oil (1 tbsp.);
- lemon essential concentrate (3 drops);
- egg white (1 pc.).
You need to beat the egg white and mix it with the rest of the ingredients. The composition is spread on the skin for 20 minutes and washed off with water. The product regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands, moisturizes the dermis, cleanses and tightens pores, and tightens the contours of the face.
To prepare a brightening mask you need:
- cosmetic clay blue or white (1 tbsp.);
- grapefruit;
- apricot extract (2 tbsp);
- geranium essential oil (2 drops).
It is necessary to peel the grapefruit and grind the pulp. The ingredients are mixed, the composition is laid out on the skin, after 20 minutes it is removed with a napkin, the skin is rinsed with running water. Products with citrus fruits are not suitable for dry skin; they are recommended for oily skin.
A cream mask containing the following ingredients will help nourish and soften dry dermis:
- cottage cheese (2 tbsp);
- medium fat sour cream (2 tbsp.)
- apricot oil (1 tbsp.);
- mint ether (2 drops).
The ingredients are mixed until smooth, spread on the skin and left for 35–40 minutes.
For a mask with a lifting effect, you will need the following products:
- aloe leaves (2–3 pcs.);
- apricot oil (2 tbsp);
- yeast (1 tsp).
You need to grind the aloe leaves and mix with the rest of the ingredients. The composition is applied to the skin for 20–25 minutes. The product deeply moisturizes the dermis, smoothes wrinkles, and tightens the facial contour.
A starch-based mask brightens and improves skin tone. The following products will be required:
- potato or corn starch (2 tbsp);
- juice from a light grape variety (5 tbsp.);
- banana pulp (1 tbsp);
- apricot oil (1 tbsp);
- jasmine essential concentrate (2-3 drops).
Starch is mixed with fresh juice, banana pulp, essential and base oils. The composition is mixed and applied to the skin for 30 minutes. You need to relax in a horizontal position. Then the composition is washed off with water, the face is treated with cosmetic ice from a decoction of medicinal herbs.
A composition of apricot oil (2 tbsp), rosemary or tea tree essential concentrate (2-3 drops) helps against acne. The components are mixed, the composition needs to be smeared on problem areas using a cotton pad. After 10 minutes, the mixture is washed off with warm water.
For oily skin, prepare a mask according to the recipe from the following products:
- persimmon pulp (2 tbsp);
- quail egg (1 pc.);
- milk (2 tbsp);
- apricot extract (1 tbsp);
- lavender essential oil (2-3 drops).
It is necessary to peel and grind the persimmons using a mixer. Then the egg is beaten and mixed with the rest of the ingredients. Apply the mixture using a cosmetic brush to cleansed skin in 2-3 layers, leave to act for 30 minutes, and rinse with purified water. The product nourishes and tightens pores, gives tone and freshness to the skin.
To prepare a peel-off mask, you need the following ingredients:
- oatmeal or oatmeal (2 tbsp.);
- apricot extract (2 tbsp);
- mimosa essential extract (2-3 drops);
- floral liquid honey (1 tsp).
You need to grind the flakes in a blender or coffee grinder, dilute with heated water and mix until smooth. The mixture includes oils and honey. The composition is applied to the face, without affecting the area around the eyes and lips. After 30–35 minutes, the composition is washed off with water without using soap.
For a mask that cleanses and evens out skin tone, the following products are required:
- tomato (1 pc.);
- wheat or rice flour (2 tbsp.);
- apricot extract (2 tbsp.);
- cosmetic cream (1 tbsp.).
You need to chop the tomato and grind the mass in a blender. Add the following ingredients and mix until smooth. The mass is applied to the face using a special brush, the mask is left for 20 minutes, then rinsed with water. The procedure ends with the application of moisturizing mousse. It is recommended to do the mask once every 6 days.
Dry and flaky skin requires the following products:
- apricot kernel oil (22 drops);
- carrots (1 pc.);
- cosmetic cream with 20% fat content (15 g).
It is necessary to boil the carrots, cool, remove the peel, grind the vegetable in a mixer. Then the components are mixed until smooth, spread on the face with a sponge and left for 20-25 minutes. The product is removed and the face is rinsed with warm water.
For a skin-healing mask, you need to use the following components:
- apricot squeeze (10 drops);
- chickpea flour (10–15 g);
- ginger root;
- green tea.
The flour is diluted with tea to a paste-like texture, and the remaining ingredients are included. The mask is applied to the face, spread with a cosmetic brush, and rinsed after 15 minutes. The skin can be treated with water with the addition of citrus extracts.
The anti-aging mask requires the following components:
- egg yolk (1 pc.);
- apricot kernel extract (16 drops);
- avocado (1/2 pcs.);
- fermented milk cheese (12 g).
You need to grind the cheese with the yolk, add avocado and butter and mix until creamy. The composition is applied to a cleansed and steamed face and distributed using a sponge. The mask is left for 35–40 minutes, then removed with cotton wool. You can rinse your face with mineralized water.
For the cleansing mask you will need:
- strawberries (6 berries);
- apricot kernel extract (12 drops);
- seaweed (12 g);
- Ascorutin (vitamin C).
You need to grind the medicine, grind the seaweed, and add the remaining ingredients to the composition. The mask is distributed on the skin using a sponge, left for 20 minutes, and washed off. If you have blackheads, you can pre-cleanse with oatmeal. For acne, you can treat the skin with zinc ointment.
Tonic
To prepare a tonic for daily dermal care, the following components are required:
- apricot and almond oil (1 tbsp each);
- essential oils of lavender, sandalwood, rosemary, ylang-ylang (2 drops each).
The ingredients are mixed, warmed up a little before use, and applied to the skin in the evening after water treatments. The product can be placed in a dark container and used within 1–2 days. It is recommended to apply the care composition fresh.
To prepare a moisturizing toner you will need:
- mineralized water (150 ml);
- apricot oil (1 tbsp.);
- glycerin (1 tsp).
The ingredients are mixed, placed in a dark glass container, sealed tightly, and used daily to treat dry skin. Shake the bottle before use. The product tones and smoothes the dermis.
Cream
Standard creams can be improved with apricot extract. Experts recommend mixing the components before applying the cream. According to cosmetologists, the optimal proportions are 2–4 drops of oil extract per 5–7 mg of cream.
To prepare the natural cream you will need the following ingredients:
- apricot extract (10 ml);
- chamomile (20 g);
- camphor alcohol (15 ml);
- glycerin (10 ml);
- butter (25 mg).
You need to brew chamomile in hot water. The broth is filtered, mixed with melted butter and other ingredients. The cream is placed in a container, sealed tightly, and stored in the refrigerator. The product is used for daily care of sensitive and dry dermis.
To prepare the regenerating cream, the following products are required:
- almond extract (2 tbsp);
- apricot oil (1 tbsp);
- lanolin (2 tbsp.);
- lemon juice (3 tbsp.).
You need to melt the lanolin, mix it with the other ingredients and place it in an airtight container. The product is used once a day for a course of 2 weeks.
Reviews
Elena, 28 years old, Moscow: “I regularly use apricot extract to soften dry skin on the lips and face in winter, the composition is quickly absorbed, provides high-quality facial care and is hypoallergenic.”
Olga, 40 years old, Samara: “I add apricot extract to creams and milk as a nourishing agent that relieves inflammation and peeling. In winter I make masks based on sour cream, oatmeal and aromatic oils. The compositions keep the skin toned and effectively nourish and improve tone.”
Contraindications
High-quality apricot oil has virtually no contraindications for use. The exception is individual intolerance.
Particular attention should be paid to the quality of the product when purchasing for oral administration. The kernels of the fruit contain amygdalin, which, after entering the body, turns into a toxic substance.
Its overdose can lead to serious health consequences. Responsible manufacturers eliminate harmful elements from the oil composition at the production stage. Purchasing oil from trusted retail outlets and pharmacies guarantees safety for any method of use.