Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams
Formula IngredientEmollientINCI: Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil
Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil is a fixed plant oil cold-pressed from the kernel (seed) of the apricot fruit. It is rich in oleic acid (54–74%) and linoleic acid (12–35%), fatty acids that closely mimic the skin's own lipid profile, allowing it to absorb readily without leaving a greasy residue. It also contains vitamin E (tocopherol), which provides antioxidant protection and supports the skin barrier.
Category
Emollient
Irritation Risk
Low
Skin Types
dry, normal, combination, sensitive, mature, dehydrated skin
emolliency, skin softening, barrier support, antioxidant protection, soothing, lightweight moisturisation
Irritancy rating of 0 on the INCIDecoder scale — considered non-irritating for the vast majority of skin types. No EU CosIng Annex II or III restrictions apply. Those with stone fruit (Rosaceae family) allergies should patch test before use.
Apricot kernel oil does not increase photosensitivity. No sun protection precautions are required based on its presence in a formulation.
Topical plant oils used as emollients are universally considered safe during pregnancy. No reproductive or developmental concerns are documented for prunus armeniaca kernel oil in available safety databases.
Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil is a fixed plant oil cold-pressed from the kernel (seed) of the apricot fruit. It is rich in oleic acid (54–74%) and linoleic acid (12–35%), fatty acids that closely mimic the skin's own lipid profile, allowing it to absorb readily without leaving a greasy residue. It also contains vitamin E (tocopherol), which provides antioxidant protection and supports the skin barrier.
Individuals with known Rosaceae (stone fruit) allergy should review the considerations above before use.