APRICOT KERNEL OIL

Inside an ordinary apricot hides a small treasure: the kernel, from which a silky, light oil is cold-pressed. Apricot kernel oil is rich in oleic acid, which helps it absorb beautifully — skin takes it in almost immediately, without a greasy feel. Ours is organic — an amber bottle, a pump and a soft peach label whose colour gives the fruit away. It also suits those who are only just starting out with oils.

Apricot kernel oil: quick, for slow moments

In a massage it glides beautifully and doesn't weigh the skin down — it is a lighter type of massage oil, for hands and skin that don't want a heavy layer. After a shower, apply it to damp skin and let the water help it spread. A few drops go a long way and it sinks in sooner than you would expect. If the feeling of a greasy film puts you off oils, start right here. Apricot kernel oil is one of those that don't want to be seen: it does its job and disappears.

Inside the bottle there is only what was in the kernel — cold-pressing takes nothing away and we add nothing. That is exactly why apricot kernel oil gets along so well with the rest of your skincare — it doesn't get in its way, it just tops up nourishment where it is needed. Feel free to layer it under your usual cream too — the oil provides the nourishment, the cream seals it in. The bottle holds 50 ml and the pump dispenses precisely: a drop or two for the face, three or four for a massage, no more needed.

For a final refresh after a massage or a shower, one of our floral waters — hydrosols is just the thing. And if you are putting together a whole oil shelf, you will find the other cold-pressed oils and butters in one category.