Using natural products to improve your skin's beauty has long-lasting benefits and is safe for your skin. One great way to enhance your skin is by using natural oils. Nowadays, people prefer cold-pressed vegetable oils because they have a better taste and aroma, and they stay fresh longer compared to oils extracted with chemicals.
Natural oils, which are free from preservatives, are a great choice for repairing and maintaining healthy skin. For thousands of years, people around the world have used plant-based oils for their health and beauty, including for their skin.
Among these natural oils is apricot oil, which offers many benefits. You can use it not only in your diet but also on your hair and skin. Let’s explore more about apricot oil and other natural oils made from plants.
Types of Natural Oils
Natural oils are divided into two main types based on how they are processed: fixed oils and essential oils.
Fixed Oils
- Fixed oils do not evaporate at room temperature and are safe for the skin. They are further classified into three categories:
- Extra Virgin Oils: These are the best quality, unrefined oils that are cold-pressed, meaning they retain the most nutrients and are less likely to irritate the skin.
- Virgin Oils: These are also cold-pressed but have a bit more acidity than extra virgin oils.
- Non-Virgin Oils: These undergo heat and chemical refining, which can change their composition and reduce their nutrients.
When selecting oils for skincare, it's best to choose unrefined options for their purity and nutrient content.
Cold-Pressed Oils
Cold-pressed oils are made by pressing plant seeds or nuts at room temperature without using chemicals. These oils may have natural residues like wax that help protect the skin by keeping it hydrated and aiding in repair. For example, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is a gentle, unrefined oil with low acidity, making it safe for skin use.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are extracted using heat and contain volatile compounds that make them aromatic. Unlike fixed oils, they are less fatty and more fragrant.
Fragranced Oils
Fragranced oils are fixed oils mixed with synthetic scents. These added fragrances can irritate the skin, similar to those found in some moisturizers.
Apricot Oil Benefits for Skin
Apricot oil, extracted from Himalayan apricots is natural lightweight, easily absorbed oil for your skin. Here are some of its benefits:
Relief for Skin Irritations: Apricot oil offers a gentle solution for irritated skin, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. It effectively reduces redness, itching, and inflammation, making it suitable for conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Moisturization and Hydration: Rich in essential fatty acids such as oleic and linoleic acids, apricot oil strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier. This results in improved hydration and a softer, more supple skin texture.
Enhanced Skin Tone: The combination of vitamins and fatty acids in apricot oil significantly improves skin elasticity and tone. Regular application can help diminish the appearance of scars, blemishes, and uneven pigmentation.
Anti-Aging Benefits: Apricot oil is abundant in antioxidants, particularly vitamins A and E, which combat free radicals. This helps prevent premature aging and reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
Gentle Exfoliating Action: Apricot oil possesses natural exfoliating properties that help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. This promotes a smoother, more radiant complexion and reduces the likelihood of acne breakouts
Five Practical Uses for Apricot Oil
- Body Moisturizer: Apricot oil can be used as a moisturizer for the entire body. Apply it after a shower or bath to lock in moisture and maintain soft, smooth skin.
- Facial Moisturizer: After cleansing, apply a few drops of apricot oil to face. Gently massage using upward motions to lock in moisture and provide a protective barrier throughout the day.
- Hair and Scalp Treatment: Warm apricot oil can be applied to the hair and scalp for nourishment. Massage it into the scalp and distribute through the hair, leaving it on for 30 minutes before washing.
- Makeup Remover: Apricot oil effectively dissolves makeup, including waterproof varieties. Apply it to a cotton pad and gently remove makeup before proceeding with your usual cleansing routine.
- Massage Oil: Apricot oil’s smooth texture makes it ideal for massages. Enhance the experience by mixing it with essential oils for a fragrant and relaxing treatment.
