Olive oil is derived from olives and is a staple of the Mediterranean diet. The oil has many nutritional benefits when consumed, but it is also frequently applied to the skin and hair. Here are the benefits of olive oil on face and learn how to use it for best results.
Benefits of olive oil for skin and face
Here are some of the potential benefits of olive oil for the skin:
1. Antioxidant content
Olive oil can help prevent premature signs of skin aging. Olive oil acts as an antioxidant, which is a substance that prevents oxidation. Oxidation is a process that can produce free radicals, which are chemicals that can potentially damage cells and contribute to the development of cancer. When applied to the skin, antioxidants can prevent premature aging.
Also, some research suggests that applying olive oil to the skin after sun exposure can fight cancer-causing cells.
In this study, scientists applied the oil to the skin of mice that had been exposed to potentially harmful ultraviolet (UV) light. Tumor growth was significantly lower in mice that had olive oil on their skin than in those that did not. Scientists need to continue their research in this area to understand the effects of the antioxidant properties of olive oil on human skin.
2. Vitamin content
Olive oil contains the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Some of these vitamins may benefit the skin. For example, people have used vitamin E oil topically throughout history to treat various skin conditions, including psoriasis and eczema.
3. Antibacterial effects
Olive oil has been shown to have antibacterial properties. However, there are very few studies on olive oil’s ability to control bacteria on the skin. A small study looked at the effects of using olive oil and coconut oil on Staphylococcus aureus bacteria on the skin. The results showed that both oils exhibited antibacterial properties, but virgin coconut oil was more effective at killing bacteria. Nevertheless, olive oil can sometimes be used to treat bacterial skin infections. It may also improve healingTrusted Source in people with foot ulcers caused by type 2 diabetes.
4. Moisturizing effects
Olive oil is a popular natural moisturizer that is often used to soften skin and hair. However, there is very little research on its effectiveness.
How to use olive oil on the skin
Olive oil is an ingredient in many personal care products, including facial cleansers, body washes, soaps, and lotions. Here are other ways to use olive oil on the skin:
Moisturizer and after-sun treatment
Some people use olive oil as a moisturizing lotion by applying it directly to the skin before blotting off excess oil. You can also apply the oil to damp skin to avoid a greasy feeling. Olive oil can be especially beneficial when applied after sun exposure.
Exfoliating
To exfoliate the face and body and treat areas of dry or flaky skin, olive oil and sea salt can be mixed together to make a scrub. It is recommended to use fine-grained salt on the face and other sensitive areas, and coarser-grained ones on the rest of the body.
eye makeup remover
Olive oil breaks down water-resistant substances in eye makeup, making it easier to remove. To remove make-up from the eyes, simply add a few drops of olive oil to a cotton ball and gently wipe around the eyes.
face mask
People with dry skin can benefit from an olive oil face mask. Olive oil mixed with ingredients such as egg white, honey, or ground oats can soften and moisturize the face.
Wrinkle treatment
Thanks to its antioxidant content, olive oil can reduce skin aging and wrinkles. The oil can be applied to the eye area in the evening or after sun exposure.
scar oil
The vitamins and other antioxidants in olive oil can fade scars by helping skin cells regenerate. Simply massage the oil undiluted onto scars or mix it with a squeeze of lemon juice to treat areas of hyperpigmentation, where the skin has darkened due to scarring. Olive oil can also be used to prevent or treat stretch marks, although studies conducted by Trusted Source on its effectiveness have shown mixed results.
Risks
Infant eczema can develop if olive oil is used on a child’s skin. While some studies have shown olive oil to have benefits for the skin, others suggest it’s not the best option for everyone.
Potential risks of using olive oil on the face include:
A damaged skin barrier
A 2013 study reported that the use of olive oil for dry skin in adults and infants should not be encouraged. Researchers suggest that it can cause redness and damage to the outer layer of skin in some people.
Atopic eczema in children
Olive oil may contribute to the development of childhood eczema, according to 2016 research, especially in children with a family history of the condition.
clogged pores
Olive oil is a heavy oil that can clog pores and trap bacteria if used in excess. People should use it sparingly, and immediately wipe off any excess oil with a soft cloth or cotton ball.
Use of poor quality oil
It is important to use high quality olive oil. Poor quality oils may contain additives or chemicals that can irritate or damage the skin. It is advisable to buy oil from a reputable brand and look for organic certification. Finally, be sure to choose pure olive oil or virgin olive oil rather than blends.
Summary
Olive oil may offer some skin benefits, including vitamins, antioxidants, and antibacterial effects. However, research on the benefits of olive oil for the face and skin is limited. It appears to cause adverse reactions in some people. People with sensitive skin should therefore use it sparingly and do a test beforehand. To do this, rub a few drops of oil on your arm and observe the reaction. If no reaction appears within 48 hours, use is probably safe.
