Olive oil contains plenty of antioxidants that help in protecting the skin from the harmful impact of free radicals, which tend to hasten the process of skin ageing. It maintains the skin’s elasticity and tends to keep it smooth, supple, and glowing. It contains vitamin E, flavonoids, and polyphenols which enhance the skin cell turnover making your skin healthy and glowing from within.
Olive oil, which is made by pressing olives and extracting their oil, comes in many different forms and has many uses. Olive oil to the skin of mice that were exposed to ultraviolet rays that could cause cancer, the olive oil actually worked to fight off the cancer-causing cells.
Skin benefits of olive oil
It’s rich in vitamins
Olive oil does have some reported benefits to the skin. According to the International Olive Council, olive oil has many vitamins, including A, D, and K, as well as vitamin E.
It has antioxidant properties
Olive oil is also an antioxidant, so it might help prevent or reverse damage from cancer-causing ultraviolet radiation. It has a very high concentration of an ingredient called squalene as compared to the other types of fats and oils that humans normally eat
It moisturizes and fights bacteria
If you’re prone to acne, using a soap made with olive oil may help trusted Source decrease your acne by killing off the bacteria that causes the acne. Olive oil is also known to moisturize and hydrate your skin.
How can you use olive oil on your face?
Olive oil is often used as an ingredient in face wash products. There are cosmetics that have olive oil bases. It can also be found in some soap, body washes, and lotions. It’s possible to use olive oil as a moisturizer without any added ingredients by applying it directly onto your skin.
From there, you can blot off any excess oil with a towel or cloth. It may be especially helpful to use olive oil as a moisturizer after you’ve been exposed to the sun or suffered sunburn.
Risks and warnings
If you have sensitive skin, particularly oily skin or a skin condition such as dermatitis, olive oil might not be the best choice. Do an allergy test before applying it to your face. Rub a dime-sized amount on your forearm with the brand of olive oil that you plan to use. If you observe no reaction in 24 to 48 hours, it should be safe to use.
Olive oil is heavy oil and is not easily absorbed into the skin. Wipe off excess oil to prevent clogging pores or trapping bacteria. Choose a high-quality product that doesn’t contain additives or chemicals.
Olive oil can be ruined during transportation if it’s exposed to excessive heat, light, or oxygen. The quality of the olive oil can be affected if damaged or overripe olives are used in its production or if the oil is stored improperly.
