Apricot Kernel Oil – Cold-pressed from the seed of the apricot fruit and then refined, this oil is similar to sweet almond oil. It is very light and easily absorbed by the skin. Its smooth and lightweight texture is especially good for facial serums. It is a very popular body oil, since it does not leave an oil film on the skin. In soap making, apricot kernel oil offers great skin nourishment and good lathering qualities. Apricot oil is high in vitamin A and minerals, and it contains 34% linoleic acid. It also contains the highest content of nitriloside (also known as vitamin B-17) in the plant world. A European study showed that the skin loses more water when it has low levels of linoleic acid (an omega 6 essential fatty acid). There also seems to be a link between low linoleic acid and the formation of acne. For these reasons, apricot kernel oil is recommended for mature, dry, and acne-prone skin. Aromaland adds additional plant-derived vitamin E oil to increase the shelf life.