# Apricot kernel oil as a carrier for essential oils

> Apricot kernel oil is close to sweet almond in make-up but a little lighter, so it suits faces and delicate areas as well as massage. Mild and barely scented, it’s a gentle all-rounder.

Canonical page: https://essential-oils.club/carrier-oils/apricot-kernel

## At a glance

- **Botanical name:** Prunus armeniaca
- **Made from:** Apricot kernels
- **Extraction:** Cold-pressed
- **Texture:** Light–medium
- **Absorption:** Absorbs well, soft finish
- **Scent:** Very faint
- **Shelf life:** About 12 months
- **Make-up:** Oleic acid ~58–73%, linoleic acid ~20–34%

## Best for

- Facial & delicate-skin blends
- Massage
- Light body oils

## How to use it

Use at 0.5–1% for the face, 2% for body blends.

Dilution help: https://essential-oils.club/tools/dilution-calculator · https://essential-oils.club/tools/dilution-chart

## Cautions

A kernel oil — people with almond or stone-fruit allergies should patch-test with care or avoid it.

## Frequently asked questions

### Apricot kernel or sweet almond oil?

They’re very similar; apricot kernel is slightly lighter and absorbs a touch faster, so many prefer it for the face. Both are kernel oils, so take care with nut allergies.

_Educational reference only — not medical advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease._