Apricot kernel oil scores a 2 out of 5 on the comedogenicity scale, which means it has a low-to-moderate chance of clogging pores. For most people, it won’t cause breakouts. But if your skin is oily or already prone to acne, that rating leaves enough room for trouble.
What the Comedogenicity Rating Means
The comedogenicity scale runs from 0 (won’t clog pores at all) to 5 (highly likely to cause clogged pores and breakouts). Apricot kernel oil sits at 2, categorized as “moderately unlikely” to clog pores. That puts it in the same range as oils like jojoba and argan, which are generally considered safe for facial use. For context, coconut oil scores a 4, making it far more likely to cause congestion.
A rating of 2 is not a guarantee either way. Two people can use the same oil and get completely different results. Jojoba oil and apricot kernel oil share an identical comedogenicity rating, yet some people find one clears their skin while the other triggers breakouts. Your individual response depends on your skin type, how much sebum you naturally produce, and how you apply the oil.
Why Oleic Acid Matters
Apricot kernel oil is roughly 58 to 68 percent oleic acid, which is the dominant fatty acid in its profile. The remaining fats are mostly linoleic acid (23 to 30 percent) and smaller amounts of palmitic and stearic acids. That oleic acid content is the key factor in whether the oil works for your skin or backfires.
Oleic acid is a double-edged ingredient. Research published in Access Microbiology found that oleic acid can cause hyperkeratinization, a process where skin cells build up faster than they shed. That buildup is exactly what plugs a pore. In epidermal models, oleic acid disrupted skin barrier function and increased inflammatory signaling. So while the oil feels nourishing, high concentrations of oleic acid can push skin toward congestion if you’re already prone to it.
Interestingly, the same research found that oleic acid also reduces the activity of a specific enzyme produced by acne-causing bacteria on the skin. That enzyme breaks down sebum into irritating free fatty acids. So oleic acid may simultaneously make pores more likely to clog while making the bacterial environment slightly less inflammatory. The net effect depends on your skin: if clogged pores are your primary issue, the hyperkeratinization risk matters more than any antibacterial benefit.
Best Skin Types for Apricot Oil
Apricot kernel oil works best on dry and combination skin. It’s an occlusive, meaning it forms a thin layer that seals moisture in rather than adding water to the skin. For dry skin that loses hydration quickly, this sealing effect is exactly what’s needed, and the oleic acid actually supports the skin barrier when it’s depleted. People with sensitive skin, eczema, or general irritation also tend to tolerate it well because of its lightweight texture and fast absorption.
If your skin is very oily or you break out frequently, apricot kernel oil is not the best choice. Adding a high-oleic oil on top of skin that already overproduces sebum increases the odds of congestion. You’d be better off with an oil higher in linoleic acid, like grapeseed or rosehip, which tend to score lower on the comedogenicity scale and are better matched to oily skin’s fatty acid needs.
How to Use It Without Causing Breakouts
If you want to try apricot kernel oil on your face, a small amount goes a long way. Two to three drops is enough for your entire face. Warm the drops between your fingertips and press them into slightly damp skin rather than rubbing. Apply it after any water-based serums or creams. In the morning, layer it underneath sunscreen and wait a minute or two before applying SPF or makeup so it absorbs fully. At night, use it as your last step.
You can also mix one to two drops into your moisturizer instead of applying it directly. This dilutes the oil and reduces the chance of it sitting heavily on your skin. Start by using it every other day for a week or two and watch how your skin responds before making it a daily habit. If you notice small bumps, blackheads, or a general “congested” feeling in your pores within the first two weeks, your skin is telling you the oleic acid content is too high for you.
Apricot Oil vs. Apricot Scrubs
One important distinction: apricot kernel oil and apricot kernel scrubs are completely different products with different risks. Physical exfoliants made from crushed apricot pits are too abrasive for acne-prone skin and can create microscopic tears that lead to inflammation. Dermatologists generally advise against these scrubs for anyone dealing with breakouts. The oil, by contrast, is gentle and non-abrasive. If you’ve had a bad experience with an apricot-based scrub, that doesn’t predict how the oil will treat your skin.