Olive oil benefits for skin

Trying to combat dry skin? A typical kitchen store cupboard item could be just what you need. We’re talking about olive oil, of course!

Whether you’ve got a bottle hanging around your pantry or you’re considering investing in a skincare product, it’s worth clueing yourself up on the potential benefits of olive oil before you try it.

What are the main olive oil benefits for skin?¹

Olives are native to the Mediterranean region. They’re well-known for their health benefits when eaten – but what happens when their oil is applied straight to skin? Here’s what you need to know:

Olive oil is rich in various vitamins

This type of oil is a natural source of numerous nutrients, including vitamin E, which is well-known for its effects on skin health². Vitamin E helps with cell regeneration and is also an anti-inflammatory, meaning it can help bring down any redness or sensitivity while even slowing down the signs of ageing³.

Olive oil is rich in antioxidants

Antioxidants are brilliant for both the body and the skin as they help fight off free radicals which can damage cells. Olive oil contains one in particular – squalene – which has natural healthy ageing properties⁴.

Olive oil is incredibly moisturising

Olive oil is an emollient, meaning it’s excellent at keeping the skin hydrated. It does this by creating a layer across the skin, effectively trapping moisture underneath and softening the skin as a result⁵.

Olive oil has anti-bacterial properties

Blemish-prone  skin? Using olive oil or an olive oil-based product could help. That’s because it’s able to deeply cleanse your pores and combat bacteria which may be lurking in them.

How to use olive oil

While you’ll spot olive oil as a key ingredient in numerous face washes, cleansing balms, and moisturisers, it’s also possible to use olive oil straight from the bottle. Here’s how:

1. Pour a little into your hands and then massage it onto your legs and arms to make them appear softer and silkier.
2. Apply some to tender areas of your skin after you’ve been in the sun to help it retain moisture.
3. Massage undiluted olive oil onto a scar to encourage the cells to regenerate.
4. Use it on your face as an anti-wrinkle treatment, to replenish dry skin or to help remove stubborn eye make up.

Does the type of olive oil matter?

It’s best to use high quality, organic olive oil on your skin that ideally doesn’t contain any chemicals or additives. Less pure versions may irritate the skin and be less easy to absorb⁶.

Should anyone avoid using olive oil?⁷

If you’re considering using olive oil on your skin, make sure you test it out on a small patch of skin first. Those who suffer from specific skin complaints such as dermatitis may want to consult a doctor before trying olive oil.

Remember also that less is always more when it comes to oils! To avoid your pores becoming clogged up, massage it in thoroughly and wipe away any excess olive oil which hasn’t been absorbed.

Shop our complete skincare range for olive oil products and begin reaping the benefits of this incredible ingredient. Want more natural beauty advice?

Last Updated: 12th November 2020