It’s great on salads, in pastas and apparently, on your skin. Yes, we’re talking olive oil! This kitchen shelf staple also has several applications in skincare and can be found in many products. In fact, people in Egypt, Rome and Saudi Arabia have been using olive oil for beauty for many, many years. What are the benefits and uses of olive oil and how does one go about adding it to skincare? Let’s find out.
Benefits of olive oil
1. Keeps your skin hydrated
While olive oil doesn’t moisturise the skin directly, it is an occlusive moisturiser (Oof, big words). In simple terms, olive oil benefits the skin by creating a seal to keep the moisture from escaping. Add in a humectant (moisturisers that draw hydration from the environment) such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid and you have the ultimate moisturising combo!
2. Vitamin and antioxidant-rich
Another benefit of olive oil for skin care is that it is rich with Vitamin E, D, K and A as well as antioxidants that help reduce the oxidative stress on the skin. Oxidative stress can lead to early signs of ageing, which using olive oil can thus prevent.
3. Makeup remover
There are many uses of olive oil for the skin like as a makeup remover. The oil breaks down makeup on the face gently. Add a thin layer to a cotton pad and apply it to your skin and let it sit for a minute. Gently swipe away without pulling too much. Don’t forget to rinse right after.
4. For shaving your face
The uses of olive oil don’t just stop at makeup removal. It also lends you the slip you need to shave your face safely. By adding a thin layer to your face, you provide your facial razor a slippery surface to glide on, avoiding any redness or bumps.
5. Repairing wounds
In some studies, it has been seen that extra virgin olive oil can help in the healing process of acute wounds, thanks to the fatty acids present in the ingredient.
But hold on a minute…
While olive oil benefits the skin in many ways, there are certain things that should be kept in mind.
- Too much olive oil can clog the pores (it’s still oil, after all) and so those with oily or sensitive skin should likely steer clear of it. Others too should be careful to use only a thin layer.
- Do not use it on infants as it may not be safe for their skin and lead to eczema in later life.
How to use olive oil?
If you’re wondering how to apply olive oil on the face as a makeup remover or as a replacement for shaving cream, a thin layer should be more than enough to accomplish the task. Once you’ve done what needs to be done, give your face a good wash with your everyday cleanser.
If you want to know how to use olive oil for face or body moisturisation, again, stick with the rule: less is more. Only a thin layer and if you’ve spilt a bit too much, dab off the excess with a towel.
Smytten’s picks for olive oil:
And if you want to know how to use olive oil for the face or the skin without directly applying it, why not go for products that are formulated to make the most of it? By incorporating the goodness of other ingredients, these products enhance the effects and benefits of olive oil.
Smytten’s picks olive body lotion:
1. Earth Rhythm Olive & Aloe Vera Butter Lotion:
This lotion brings together the moisture retention of olive oil with the soothing, humectant qualities of aloe vera to leave your skin feeling soft and supple.
2. Pink Root Chocolate Face Scrub with Olive Oil:
Olive oil helps break down the dirt and impurities while chocolate protects the skin with antioxidants. Say goodbye to dead skin cells and hello to a glowing face.
4. Mirah Belle Lavender- Avocado Dry Skin Body Oil:
All the oils, assemble! This body oil contains the best of different types of oil from lavender and avocado to rosemary oil extract and of course, extra virgin olive oil. Just a few drops is all you need.
5. Odeon Nourishing Olive Body Lotion
The goodness of olive oil penetrates deep into your skin along with Vitamin E oil that helps nourish the skin from within.
FAQs
Does olive oil clog pores?
Yes, excessive use of olive oil can cause clogged pores. Hence, olive oil for oily skin or sensitive skin is not recommended.
How to use olive oil for the face?
You can use olive oil for the face in a couple of different ways—as a makeup remover, for facial shaving and as a moisturiser. Opt for extra virgin olive oil or try a formulated product to get the best of all ingredients.
Does olive oil darken skin?
Olive oil does not darken skin and can in fact be used to protect your skin from sun damage to some degree. But we still recommend going for an SPF for that purpose.
Does olive oil expire?
A new bottle can stay up to a couple years but once it is opened, it is best to use it up in six months or so.
