What Is Cold-Pressed Apricot Kernel Oil?
Cold-pressed apricot kernel oil is a natural carrier oil extracted from the seeds inside apricot fruit. The cold-pressing process uses no heat or chemicals, so the oil keeps all its natural nutrients intact. It’s light in texture, absorbs quickly, and works well on both skin and hair.
Most people don’t know that apricots grown at high altitudes — like those from Gilgit-Baltistan — tend to be denser in nutrients than lowland varieties. That’s because mountain-grown apricots develop under harsher conditions, which concentrates their natural compounds. Mewa.pk sources its apricots from these very farms in northern Pakistan.
Why Choose Mewa.pk Apricot Kernel Oil?
Not all apricot oils are the same. Here’s what makes ours different.
Cold-Pressed, Not Refined
Most commercial apricot oils are heat-extracted or solvent-processed, which strips away nutrients. Ours is cold-pressed only, so the fatty acids, Vitamin E, and natural Vitamin A stay fully active.
No Added Chemicals
There are no preservatives, no fragrance additives, and no fillers. What you get is pure oil — nothing else.
Sourced from Mountain Apricots
The apricots used come from high-altitude farms in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. These farms use traditional growing methods, and the fruit is harvested by hand. That matters because the quality of the source directly affects the quality of the oil.
Lightweight and Fast-Absorbing
Heavy oils sit on top of skin and feel greasy. Apricot kernel oil is different — it has a light viscosity that lets it absorb in minutes, without blocking pores or leaving residue.
Genuinely Multipurpose
This one oil works as a facial moisturiser, hair treatment, under-eye serum, scalp oil, and massage carrier. You don’t need a separate product for each job.
Nutritional Benefits of Apricot Kernel Oil
Oleic Acid (Omega-9)
Apricot kernel oil is roughly 60–70% oleic acid. This fatty acid helps the skin retain moisture by supporting its natural lipid barrier. It’s especially useful for dry and mature skin types that lose water quickly.
Linoleic Acid (Omega-6)
Around 20–30% of the oil is linoleic acid. This one is harder for the body to produce on its own, so applying it topically helps restore balance in skin that’s prone to dryness or mild irritation.
Natural Vitamin A
Apricot kernel oil contains natural beta-carotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A. This supports cell turnover — the process that keeps skin looking fresh. It’s a gentler option than synthetic retinol, with far less risk of irritation.
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)
Vitamin E is an antioxidant. In simple terms, it helps protect skin cells from damage caused by pollution, sun exposure, and environmental stress. Apricot kernel oil provides a meaningful amount of tocopherol per application.
Phytosterols
These are plant-based compounds that mimic the structure of cholesterol in the skin. They help calm mild inflammation and support the skin’s ability to repair itself after damage or dryness.
Who Should Use Apricot Kernel Oil?
People with Dry or Mature Skin
If your skin feels tight, flaky, or dull — especially in dry or cold weather — this oil can help. The oleic acid content restores softness quickly, and the Vitamin A supports gradual improvement in skin texture over time.
Those with Sensitive Skin
Apricot kernel oil is one of the more gentle carrier oils available. It’s non-comedogenic at low to moderate usage, meaning it’s unlikely to block pores for most skin types.
Anyone with Dry or Frizzy Hair
A small amount worked into the ends of hair helps smooth the cuticle, reduce frizz, and prevent breakage. It’s also useful on a dry scalp when massaged in before washing.
People Avoiding Synthetic Skincare
If you’re trying to reduce the number of chemical ingredients in your routine, this is a clean, single-ingredient alternative to many commercial moisturisers and serums.
Those Who Use Essential Oils
Apricot kernel oil works well as a carrier oil for diluting essential oils before applying them to skin. It blends easily, absorbs cleanly, and doesn’t overpower the scent of the essential oil being used.
How to Use Apricot Kernel Oil
As a Facial Moisturiser
After washing your face, apply 3–4 drops to damp skin and gently press in using your fingertips. Don’t rub — pressing helps the oil absorb without disturbing the skin.
As an Under-Eye Treatment
Dab a very small amount (1 drop is usually enough) around the eye area using your ring finger. Do this at night, after cleansing. Over a few weeks, many users notice softer skin and reduced dryness in this area.
As a Hair Oil
Work 4–6 drops through the mid-lengths and ends of dry hair before styling, or apply to slightly damp hair after washing. For a deeper treatment, apply to the scalp and full length of hair, leave for 30–60 minutes, then wash out.
As a Massage Oil
Use it straight as a body massage oil, or mix it with 1–2 drops of your preferred essential oil. It spreads easily, doesn’t dry out too quickly, and absorbs well without leaving excessive residue on clothing.
As a Carrier Oil for Essential Oils
A standard dilution is 1–2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon (5ml) of apricot kernel oil. This gives you a safe, skin-ready blend for topical use.
How to Store Apricot Kernel Oil
Store in a cool, dark place — away from direct sunlight and heat. A cupboard or drawer works well. Once opened, use within 6–12 months for best quality. The oil doesn’t need refrigeration, but if you live in a very warm climate, keeping it in the fridge can extend its shelf life. Always close the cap tightly after use.
5. FAQ SECTION
What is cold-pressed apricot kernel oil used for?
Cold-pressed apricot kernel oil is used as a skin moisturiser, hair treatment, scalp oil, and carrier oil for essential oils. It absorbs quickly into skin without leaving a greasy feel. It’s popular in natural skincare because it contains oleic acid, Vitamin E, and natural Vitamin A — all of which support soft, healthy skin and hair.
Is apricot kernel oil good for the face?
Yes, apricot kernel oil is well-suited for facial use, especially for dry, sensitive, or mature skin. It’s lightweight enough to absorb without blocking pores for most skin types. The natural Vitamin A and fatty acids it contains help improve skin texture and moisture levels with regular use. That said, if you have very oily or acne-prone skin, do a patch test first.
Can diabetics use apricot kernel oil?
Yes, apricot kernel oil is a topical product and doesn’t affect blood sugar. People with diabetes sometimes experience dry skin — particularly on the hands and feet — and apricot kernel oil can be a useful, chemical-free option for managing that dryness. Always consult your doctor if you have any specific skin concerns related to a health condition.
How is cold-pressed apricot oil different from regular apricot oil?
Cold-pressed apricot oil is extracted using mechanical pressure and no heat, which keeps all the natural nutrients — fatty acids, Vitamin E, Vitamin A — intact. Regular or refined apricot oil is often processed with heat or solvents, which can reduce its nutrient content. Cold-pressing takes more effort, but the result is a more active and effective oil.
How long does apricot kernel oil last after opening?
Once opened, cold-pressed apricot kernel oil typically lasts 6–12 months when stored properly. Keep it in a cool, dark place with the cap closed tightly. Heat and light are the main things that cause it to go rancid. A slight off-smell is the clearest sign that the oil has passed its best.
Where can I buy pure apricot kernel oil in Pakistan?
You can buy cold-pressed apricot kernel oil from Mewa.pk. The oil is sourced from apricots grown in Gilgit-Baltistan and cold-pressed without any additives or chemicals. Mewa.pk delivers across Pakistan, and the oil is available to order directly from their website.

