Olive oil is a multipurpose miracle ingredient with benefits ranging in a wide range of spectrums. This versatile oil treats inflammation on the skin, acts as a moisturiser and reduces dark spots and wrinkles.
Olive oil has been attributed to its healing properties from the times of Cleopatra, who loved the glow that this oil renders.
Olive oil for Skincare
Olive oil can easily be regarded as one component that we won’t get tired of. The fact that Olive oil has a plethora of skincare benefits is indeed true.
The presence of vital nutrients like certain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants make Olive oil a magical component of many skincare products.
Skin benefits of Olive oil
Our ‘hero’ ingredient benefits the skin by being a good cleanser, moisturiser, anti-pigmentation and anti-inflammatory agent.
Once you get your hands on Olive oil, it will definitely turn out to be your go-to skincare ingredient. There are multiple perks of using Olive oil, including the following,
Moisturizes skin
Skin health is greatly enhanced due to the presence of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the Olive oil that hydrates the skin and serves as an extraordinary moisturising agent.
Linoleic acid is also a super hydrating agent as it locks the moisture inside the skin rendering a supple and smooth skin.
Reduces signs of ageing
Antioxidants like squalene and oleic acid are abundant in Olive oil, which assists in shielding the epidermis, the first layer of skin, from the damaging effects of free radicals.
Regular usage of Olive oil on the skin expedites the ageing process while also maintaining its elasticity.
Being rich in vitamin E, flavonoids and polyphenols, Olive oil helps to increase skin cell turnover, making the skin seem healthy and glowy. All the benefits together make Olive oil an ideal component to prevent ageing signs.
Fights oxidative stress
Extra virgin Olive oil is an easily available dietary source of antioxidants that lessen the effects of oxidative stress. This quality of Olive oil helps lower the risk and progression of a variety of diseases.
Increases collagen
Collagen production is increased by consuming vitamin A and E, which is essential for the health of the skin and hair.
Cleanses skin
There is no way one would prefer cleansing balms and oils available in the market to remove makeup when Olive oil is there to do the job more efficiently.
Makeup can be removed by taking Olive oil on a cotton pad and massaging it in a circular motion gently. This emulsifies with makeup and breaks down the products, making Olive oil a great product for makeup removal.
When used as a cleanser, olive oil can help remove dead skin cells, dirt, and makeup. It also reduces sebum buildup that causes blackheads.
Lowers risk of acne
Olive oil has the potential to kill bacteria that causes acne, thereby reducing its occurrence.
Their cleansing property is also an added advantage since acne can also occur due to clogged makeup.
Promotes wound healing
The production of epithelial tissues is hastened due to antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in Olive oil, resulting in a faster wound healing process.
Has anti-inflammatory properties
The major health benefits of Olive oil can be attributed to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Antioxidants like oleocanthal play a vital role in the anti-inflammatory actions of Olive oil. Oleocanthal resembles ibuprofen, an anti-inflammatory drug, in its effects.
Oleic acid can lower levels of inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein.
Prevents pressure ulcers
The protective role of Olive oil facilitates the healing of pressure injuries. Olive oil has been shown to help reduce the size of ulcers and prevent them from developing to more severe stages.
Topical creams with Olive oil have also been a great relief to pressure ulcers, and this can be due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Keep Skin Bacteria at Bay with Olive Oil
One of the most abundant pigments present in plants is chlorophyll, which is also a component of Olive oil. This is because Olive oil is obtained from the Olive tree.
Chlorophyll is considered to be an underrated skincare ingredient owing to its innumerable benefits.
The natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties present in chlorophyll help to reduce pigmentation, redness and bacterial infections along with wound healing. Regular use of Olive oil keeps skin bacteria at bay.
How to use Olive oil on the skin
The use of coconut oil for wonderful skin is a widely known fact, and now the rave is shifting to olive oil, which can vanish our skincare issues.
High-quality Olive oil can be used directly on the skin. Cold-pressed Olive oils are usually prescribed at bedtime or immediately after bathing for quick absorption.
Scar removal
Olive oil can be a major component of home remedies. Experimenting with olive oil has resulted in a decrease in scars for many people.
Methods to use
Topical application
Olive oil can be used topically for scar reduction in three steps. The first would be to massage a few drops of Olive oil on the place of the scar. This can be done twice a day.
The second step involves steaming the face with hot water and adding a few drops of Olive oil to it. This serves best as facial steam that helps clear the skin.
Exfoliating would be the final step where a scrub can be prepared with Olive oil.
Combining with other ingredients
Olive oil can be used in combination with other ingredients like rosehip oil or sea salt, or lemon juice. These ingredients reduce the appearance of scars and enhance the properties of Olive oil.
Olive oil intake
The anti-inflammatory property of Olive oil works best when ingested into the body through cooking. Regular inclusion of Olive oil in the diet helps in scar removal.
It is the best replacement for vegetable oils and can even be used as a salad dressing.
Wrinkle treatment
The size and amount of wrinkles can be reduced with regular usage of Olive oil.
The anti-ageing characteristics of Olive oil are due to the presence of antioxidants that hydrate the skin along with cellular regeneration and ultimately prevent wrinkles.
Face mask
The benefits of Olive oil can be enhanced through the addition of other special ingredients. This can render smooth and shining skin. A face mask can be prepared by mixing Olive oil with the following ingredients,
- Honey - Honey acts as a humectant, giving the skin a natural glow by keeping it hydrated. They also play a role in preventing acne due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Orange zest - Orange is filled with vitamin C, which is known for its repairing properties and boosting collagen synthesis. Damage to the skin caused by UV rays and pollution can be hindered by using orange zest.
- Egg whites - Egg white incorporation in a face mask can tighten pores and prevent wrinkles. The elasticity and strength of the skin are also improved due to the presence of protein and collagen in eggs.
- Vitamin E Oil - Vitamin E oil provides good nourishment for dry skin and guards the skin against harmful UV rays. When combined with that Olive oil, it helps treat dark spots and prevent wrinkle formation.
DIY Face mask
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon Olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 vitamin E oil
- 1 egg yolk/white (based on skin type)
Method:
All the ingredients are added one by one and mixed well. The final mask prepared is applied and washed off after a resting time of 15 minutes. This serves as a hydrating mask.
Eye-makeup remover
A natural eye makeup remover is all we require, and it is no doubt that Olive oil is the go-to solution.
Easy homemade eye makeup remover can be prepared using Olive oil, rose petals and distilled water.
The rose petals are boiled in distilled water for a few minutes to get the rose petal extract. Once cooled down, an equal quantity of Olive oil is added and transferred to a storage container and mixed well.
This mixture can be used to remove eye makeup with the help of cotton pads.
Exfoliator
A thick paste made with Olive oil and salt can be applied and scrubbed in a circular motion. Sea salt is another best alternative exfoliator option.
Salt is beneficial due to its numerous mineral content that aid in the hydration of the skin. This exfoliating paste removes dead cells and gives soft and supple skin.
Moisturiser and after-sun treatment
Olive oil can be directly applied to damp skin to get the best moisturising effect. For better sun protection, Olive oil has to be applied post-sun exposure.
Risks
Though Olive oil is a miracle ingredient for skin, there exists some risk of improper and over-usage.
Damaged skin barrier
Olive oil may damage the skin’s top layer and cause redness. This can be due to allergies or excess usage.
childhood atopic eczema
Olive oil may trigger or cause childhood eczema. This holds true in hereditary cases.
Clogged pores
Olive oil can clog pores and may trap bacteria in it. This can be prevented by regulating the quantity of Olive oil used, and excess oil can be blotted with cotton.
Using low-quality oil
Anything low in quality has side effects associated with it. Skin is a tender organ, and low-quality products may damage it.
Preferring high-quality Olive oil can help provide healthy skin. Pure Olive oil can be preferred over blends available in the market.
Conclusion
Healthy skin is everyone’s ultimate goal. With innumerable benefits in it, Olive oil is still an underrated ingredient in the skincare industry.
The quantity and quality of the product play a vital role in the result. So, choosing the best quality oil can give the skin better nourishment.
