Skin screaming out for some moisture? Or maybe your complexion is prone to the occasional spot? Olive oil could be the solution.
This natural ingredient sourced from tasty Mediterranean olives has long been used to fight dry skin conditions and combat the signs of ageing.
Olive oil benefits for the face
Olive oil has been used on the skin for centuries. It is an especially great ingredient for those suffering from dryness. Potential benefits include the fact it1:
Contains antioxidants
Olive oil is brimming with antioxidants – compounds known for eliminating free radicals which may cause harmful cell damage. In particular, olives contain squalene which can help keep the skin hydrated and reduce the appearance of wrinkles2.
Is high in vitamin E
In addition to vitamins A and D, olive oil is rich in vitamin E. This particular nutrient is well-known for benefiting the skin, specifically by helping to regenerate your skin cells and by keeping the surface of the skin well-nourished3.
Is an antibacterial
Along with coconut oil, olive oil is thought to have some antibacterial benefits. It may help combat bacteria in the pores, which could otherwise cause skin issues such as acne and blackheads.
Is an emollient
Emollients, such as olive oil, are intensely moisturising and work wonders when it comes to softening the skin. They’re typically used on very dry or itchy skin as they’re able to lock in moisture beneath the skin’s surface4.
How to use olive oil on the face5
- As a moisturiser – olive oil topically applied to the face will give it an instant moisture boost. Just make sure you massage it in well and wipe off any that isn’t fully absorbed.
- As an exfoliator for blemish-prone skin – combine olive oil with some sea salt and use it to cleanse the pores of bacteria that can cause acne and blackheads.
- As an after-sun lotion – olive oil’s ability to lock in moisture makes it great for applying to sore, sunburnt complexions.
- As an eye makeup remover – oil is excellent at breaking down substances found in makeup, so why not pour a little onto a cotton pad and gently wipe around your eyes?
- As a scar oil – olive oil’s vitamin E and antioxidant content mean it can help the skin regenerate damaged tissue. Rubbing a little onto any scars on your face may reduce their appearance over time.
- As an eye cream – olive oil’s potential anti-ageing abilities make it a great natural option to use as an eye treatment. Simply dab a tiny bit into the wrinkles around your eyes before you go to sleep.
Should anyone avoid olive oil?
Olive oil is not known for having any significant side effects when applied to the skin. Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to test it out on a small patch of skin (such as behind your ear) before you apply it to your whole face.
Similarly, if you suffer from skin problems like dermatitis, eczema or psoriasis, you may want to ask your doctor about using olive oil topically. If you are keen to try it, only ever use a pure and organic olive oil which has no additives or chemicals6.
In addition to creating your own olive oil products at home, why not check out our full range of natural face care products containing this nourishing ingredient?
Last Updated: 13th November 2020
Sources:
1 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321246#benefits-of-olive-oil
2 https://www.health.com/beauty/what-is-squalane
3 https://www.healthline.com/health/vitamin-e-for-face
4 https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/emollients/
5 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321246#how-to-use
6 https://www.healthline.com/health/olive-oil-benefits-face#risks-and-warnings
