Apricot Oil for Hair: Benefits and How to Use It

Anjali specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. Her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be h... more

  • Benefits Of Apricot Oil For Hair
  • How To Use Apricot Oil
  • Side Effects Of Using Apricot Oil

Benefits Of Apricot Oil For Hair

Apricot oil is extracted from the apricot kernel or pit and has medicinal and pharmaceutical uses (1). It is a clear oil that is yellowish-orange. It can benefit hair in various ways.

  • Apricot oil is rich in linoleum, linolenic, palmitic, stearic, and oleic acids (essential fatty acids). Its high fatty acid content makes it similar to sweet almond oil (2). It also contains vitamins A, C, and E, and minerals like iron, copper, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients play a role in hair health.
  • Apricot oil contains vitamin E that may help in the treatment of hair loss. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that is known to reduce oxidative stress in the scalp. Research shows that oxidative stress may cause alopecia (5/' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' >3).
  • It contains vitamin C as well, which promotes hair growth (4). A deficiency in vitamin C causes scurvy, which may also result in hair loss (5).
  • The iron in apricot oil also helps. Iron deficiency is linked to hair loss as well (5).
  • Apricot oil contains linoleic and linolenic acid. These fatty acids may stimulate hair growth (6). The fats may also moisturize the dry scalp.
  • Research shows that the oil can be used to treat dandruff (7).
  • The oil is believed to control hair fall (8).
  • It could be used to condition the scalp and as a hair wax (9). It may also be used to detangle hair.

Read on to know the different ways you can use apricot oil to stimulate hair growth and deal with other hair issues

How To Use Apricot Oil

While apricot oil is safe, there are some adverse effects you should be aware of.

Side Effects Of Using Apricot Oil

Apricot oil is generally safe for use on hair and skin. But be wary if you are allergic to apricots. Anecdotal evidence suggests the oil may cause skin redness or irritation. Perform a patch test before you use the oil. Stop use and visit your doctor if you experience any adverse reactions.

Conclusion

Now you know the benefits of apricot oil for hair and the ways to use it effectively. Adding apricot oil to your hair routine, at least once a week, will leave your hair moisturized and nourished. It also makes hair maintenance easy. As we discussed, do a patch test before you use the oil. In case the oil does not suit you, your doctor will prescribe alternatives.

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