Description

Olive Oil’s Benefits for Skin

Olive oil is packed with healthy vitamins, fats, and antioxidants, and these components can contribute to healthier-looking skin. It moisturizes skin by locking in moisture, and its antioxidants can help to improve signs of aging.

• Moisturizes the skin: Olive oil contains squalene and vitamin E. Squalene supports the skin’s moisture retention, whereas vitamin E increases the skin’s capacity to absorb and retain water.2
• Reduces the signs of aging: Olive oil is rich in antioxidants. These compounds can combat oxidative stress, which is associated with skin aging. They can also increase collagen in the skin.1
• Helps cleanse the skin: Because like attracts like, olive oil can be used to dissolve oily residue on the skin. That said, it can be used to remove certain types of makeup—particularly waterproof products.
• Romotes wound healing: Olive oil also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can aid in wound healing.4 Studies show that olive oil may be able to promote healing of diabetic foot ulcers and prevent pressure ulcers.
  

  Facial Moisturizer

  Olive oil can be used as part of a daily skincare regimen or as needed when your skin feels dry.

  Apply a thin layer to moisturize your face after cleansing. Olive oil helps to lock moisture in, so use it after putting on lotion and before makeup.

  If you apply a daily sunscreen every morning, gently apply a thin layer of olive oil right before the sunscreen and dab away any excess.

  Hand Moisturizer

  Another options is to apply small amounts of olive oil to any extra dry areas of skin, such as your hands, throughout the day. For example, you could add a few drops of oil to your hands after washing dishes.

  Makeup Remover

  Olive oil can also be used to help wash off stubborn makeup at the end of the day.

  It naturally lifts the makeup off of your skin, making your regular cleanser much more effective.

  Shaving Cream

  Just as it can be used as a body moisturizer, olive oil can be used to moisturize skin prior to shaving. Rub it onto skin in place of a foam or gel-based shaving cream. Gently wash the area afterward to avoid clogging your pores.