Apricot Squalane Face Serum
Apricot kernel oil is light and sinks in quickly, olive squalane gives that silky slip without any weight, and vitamin E keeps the little bottle from going stale.
You will need
- 2 tsp apricot kernel oil
- 1 tsp olive squalane
- 2 drops vitamin E oil
The ritual
- Measure the apricot kernel oil into a small dark glass dropper bottle.
- Add the squalane and the two drops of vitamin E oil.
- Cap it and roll the bottle between your palms for about ten seconds.
- Press three or four drops into damp skin after cleansing, morning or night.
Why these ingredients
- 2 tsp apricot kernel oil
- A light, quick-sinking oil that softens the surface and does not leave the heavy film that richer oils tend to.
- 1 tsp olive squalane
- Gives the blend its silky slip and dry finish, and it is remarkably stable, so it does not turn in the bottle.
- 2 drops vitamin E oil
- An antioxidant that slows the oils oxidising, which buys you a few more months of usable serum.
Easy swaps
- 2 tsp apricot kernel oil → sunflower or grapeseed oil, both similarly light, or sweet almond oil if nut allergies are not a concern.
- 1 tsp olive squalane → jojoba oil, less silky in feel but every bit as stable.
- 2 drops vitamin E oil → leave it out and make a smaller batch to finish within two months.
Keep it clean
Mix with freshly washed hands and clean, dry bowls and spoons. If a recipe is stored, use a jar or bottle washed in hot soapy water and dried completely, and never dip wet fingers into the batch.
Storage & when to let go
Keeps six months in a dark glass bottle in a cool cupboard, away from the windowsill.
What to expect — honestly
Skin looks smoother and a little more reflective, and feels comfortable rather than tight. That is a surface effect from a well-chosen oil, not a change in the skin itself, and it lasts until you next cleanse.
Common questions
Is squalane the same as squalene?
Close, but not the same. Squalane is the stable hydrogenated version, which is why it does not go rancid and why it feels dry rather than greasy on skin.
Can I use this under sunscreen?
Yes, but let it settle for a couple of minutes first. Sunscreen goes on far more evenly over skin that is not still slick with fresh oil.
This recipe is shared for general cosmetic enjoyment, not medical advice — see how we research and write in our editorial policy and the full safety guide.
