Skin Health
Skin Health: Benefits of Olive Oil for Skin
FAQ
Composition of Olive Oil
Olive oil, a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, is renowned not only for its nutritional benefits but also for its extraordinary cosmetic properties. Used since ancient times, this precious oil has been appreciated by civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans for its ability to improve the health and beauty of the skin. Recent scientific studies confirm that olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil, is rich in essential nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants which can bring numerous benefits to the skin (Viversano).
Main components
Olive oil is primarily composed of monounsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic acid, which penetrate deeply into the skin, providing hydration and nourishment. It also contains fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin A and vitamin E, which have a regenerating and protective action. Vitamin A promotes cell renewal and tissue repair, while vitamin E fights free radicals, responsible for skin aging. Furthermore, the polyphenols present in olive oil help prevent and fight damage caused by external agents such as the sun, pollution and stress (Dermatological Academy).
Benefits of Olive Oil for the Skin
Regularly applying olive oil to the skin can bring numerous benefits, including hydration, elasticity, protection and cleansing. Olive oil forms a lipid layer on the skin surface which prevents water loss, thus maintaining optimal hydration and preventing dryness and flaking. Furthermore, it stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, the fibers that support the skin's structure, helping to prevent and reduce wrinkles and expression lines (Amica).
It is important to note that although olive oil is generally safe for all skin types, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist before starting a new skin care regimen, especially if you have any skin conditions or conditions. For best results, it is recommended to use pure, cold-pressed olive oil, avoiding processed products or products with added ingredients (Manestrini).
Specific Properties of Olive Oil
Antioxidants
Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, which are crucial for protecting your skin from environmental damage and inflammation. Antioxidants fight free radicals, unstable molecules that can cause cell damage and accelerate the skin aging process. According to aesthetic plastic surgeon Paul Lorenc, olive oil contains antioxidants that fight free radical damage, thus helping to prevent premature skin aging (Amica).
Vitamins
Olive oil is a rich source of vitamins essential for skin health, including vitamins A, D, K, and E. These vitamins play crucial roles in maintaining skin health. Vitamin E, in particular, is known for its antioxidant and hydrating properties, while vitamin A helps improve cell regeneration and reduce wrinkles (Amica).
Squalene
Squalene is a natural component of olive oil that has exceptional moisturizing properties. This compound is similar to the sebum produced by human skin, making it highly compatible and easily absorbable. Squalene helps keep the skin hydrated by reducing water loss, thus improving the health and appearance of the skin (Dermatological Academy).
Monounsaturated fatty acids
Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid, which help keep skin soft and hydrated. These healthy fats help strengthen the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss and protecting the skin from external agents. The fat composition of olive oil is very similar to the sebum of human skin, which makes it a natural anti-aging for the reconstruction of the dermis (Oleariamanfredi).
Anti-inflammatory properties
Olive oil contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation and speed wound healing. These compounds are useful in many biological reactions necessary for wound healing, reducing the time needed for damaged skin to repair (GreenStyle).
Affinity with Human Sebum
Extra virgin olive oil (EVO) is known for its emollient properties, which help reduce water loss from the skin, keeping it hydrated. This effect is particularly effective when the oil is applied to still damp skin, for example immediately after a hot shower. The combination of water and oil, in contact with the heat of the body, generates a partial evaporation of the water, while a part is absorbed by the skin. This process helps retain water in the skin, improving hydration (Agricola Oliva).
Anti-Age effect
EVOO is rich in antioxidants, such as polyphenols and vitamin E, which neutralize free radicals, helping to prevent premature skin aging. These compounds protect DNA from oxidation, a particularly relevant benefit for post-menopausal women. When applied directly to the skin, EVO oil revitalizes mature skin, keeping it smooth and preventing the formation of wrinkles (Agricola Oliva).
Soothing action on irritations and redness
Thanks to its antioxidant properties, olive oil has a soothing action on irritation and redness. It is particularly effective in treating chapped, irritated, dry and mature skin, as well as in the presence of eczema, herpes or psoriasis. Squalene, a component of EVO oil, strengthens the skin barrier and protects the skin from UV radiation, helping to combat oxidative stress, one of the main causes of premature skin aging (Agricola Oliva).
How to Use Olive Oil on the Skin
Against Stretch Marks
Olive oil is known for its ability to prevent the formation of stretch marks, particularly during pregnancy and diets. For best results, it is recommended to massage pure olive oil on critical areas such as thighs, buttocks, stomach, breasts and inside of arms two to three times a day (Modern Woman).
Natural make-up removers
Extra virgin olive oil can be used as a natural make-up remover thanks to its cleansing properties. Simply apply a few drops on a cotton ball and pass it gently over your face to remove make-up, leaving your skin clean and hydrated (Riviera Essence).
Moisturizing Mask with Honey
One of the simplest and most effective recipes for moisturizing the skin is the mask based on olive oil and honey. Mix 2 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 tablespoon of honey. Apply evenly to your face and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water to obtain hydrated and luminous skin (CapelliStyle).
Exfoliant with cane sugar
For a gentle but effective exfoliation, mix 3 tablespoons of brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Gently massage onto face in circular motions and rinse for smooth, refreshed skin (CapelliStyle).
Night treatment
Apply a few drops of olive oil to your clean face before going to bed. Massage gently to promote absorption. Upon awakening, the skin will appear nourished and luminous (CapelliStyle).
Soothing Acne Mask
For those who struggle with blemished and problematic skin, an olive oil-based mask can be very useful. Mix one tablespoon of oatmeal with two tablespoons of olive oil and a few drops of lemon. Leave on for about 20 minutes and then remove with warm water. This treatment helps to reduce inflammation of the skin and speed up the healing process (Elle).
Regenerating Mask with Egg and Oatmeal
For regenerated and glowing skin, mix an egg, half a teaspoon of olive oil, a teaspoon of oatmeal, a pinch of sea salt and milk. Massage the mixture onto your face and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water for purified and recharged skin (Elle).
Anti-Age Mask
Olive oil can be used to prepare an anti-aging mask that helps reduce wrinkles and purify the skin. A simple recipe involves mixing a teaspoon of olive oil with a tablespoon of white clay and two drops of lavender essential oil. Apply a thin layer of the mask all over the face, avoiding the eye area, and leave on for 8-10 minutes before rinsing with warm water. This treatment can be repeated once or twice a week (Donna Moderna).
Protection of Sensitive Skin
Olive oil is particularly useful for protecting sensitive skin, which tends to burn and become red easily. With the arrival of the first cold temperatures, olive oil can be massaged twice a day on the reddened areas to soothe irritation. For an immediate decongestant effect, you can add a few drops of lavender essential oil (Donna Moderna).
Nourishing Cream for Dry Skin
For very dry skin, a nourishing cream based on olive oil can be particularly effective. One recipe calls for mixing 10 grams of olive oil with 40 grams of shea butter (softened previously), 10 drops of lavender essential oil and 5 drops of geranium essential oil. The cream obtained can be stored in a clean, dry jar and applied to heels, elbows and other particularly chapped areas (Modern Woman).