What is it? |
Cherry Kernel Oil is the liquid oil pressed from the kernels/pits of the cherry fruit. |
INCI |
Prunus Avium Seed Oil |
Appearance |
Pale yellow liquid |
Usage rate |
Up to 100% |
Texture |
Silky smooth with an almost powdery dry-down on the skin |
Scent |
Typical of carrier oils; low scent |
Absorbency Speed |
Fast |
Approximate Melting Point |
Liquid at room temperature and straight out of the fridge. |
Solubility |
Oil |
Why do we use it in formulations? |
Cherry kernel oil is a lovely, lightweight emollient with lovely skin feel. It is rich in vitamins A & E |
Do you need it? |
No, but it’s a nice, unique lightweight carrier oil. |
Refined or unrefined? |
I’ve only found cherry kernel oil as a refined product. |
Strengths |
Cherry Kernel Oil is a lovely, lightweight oil with a beautiful skin feel. |
Weaknesses |
I can’t think of any weaknesses specific to the oil, but it is a harder-to-find oil that is quite similar in skin feel to other easier-to-find oils, so I can see many people choosing one of those instead. |
Alternatives & Substitutions |
I’d choose another lightweight, fast-absorbing oil. Other stone fruit oils, like apricot kernel and sweet almond, would be good options. |
How to Work with It |
Include Cherry Kernel Oil in the oil phase of your formulations. It can be hot or cold processed. |
Storage & Shelf Life |
Stored somewhere cool, dark, and dry, Cherry Kernel Oil can last up to two years. I store mine in the fridge. |
Tips, Tricks, and Quirks |
Cherry Kernel Oil contains some rather unique fatty acids, like arachidic acid, gadoleic acid, and eicosenoic acid (all at 1%). |
Recommended starter amount |
100mL (3.3fl oz) |
Where to Buy it |
Buy it from an online DIY ingredient supplier or Amazon. |