The health benefits of olive oil are no more a secret. A crucial part of cuisines across the world, this oil is known as liquid gold. You can easily find it in your homes or local stores. However, consuming it isn’t the only way to utilise the innumerable benefits of this oil. You can use olive on your face too.
It is rich in nutrients that make it a perfect natural remedy to get beautiful and glowing skin. Wait; don’t rush to get the one from your kitchen or nearby shop and apply it. You need to be aware of how to use olive oil, the right type and precautions. Scroll down to learn more!!
How to Choose Olive Oil?
The best is to use organic, pure and extra virgin olive oil. The regular variety of olive oil may be excessively acidic for the skin. You can also use olive oils in a blend of oils like almond and lavender with an organic certification. Look for olive oil brands with no additives, preservatives, and chemicals if you wish to apply directly on your skin.
Advantages of Using Olive Oil on Your Skin
Due to its antioxidant properties, olive oil may help in treating sunburns.
- It can prevent premature ageing as it is rich in vitamins A, E, D and K.
- The component called squalene and fatty acids such as omega 6 and omega 9 in olive oil ensures that skin stays supple and soft.
- Linoleic acid in olive oil acts as an obstacle to ensure that the moisture below the skin surface stays intact, making skin stay hydrated.
- Olive oil is known to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help in reducing redness, bacterial infection and pigmentation.
Risks & Precautions to Keep in Mind Before Using Olive Oil
- Keep in mind that olive oil gets easily damaged if exposed to excess light, air and heat.
- If you are using it for the first time, a patch test is mandatory. Take a drop of olive oil and apply it on the back of your hand or wrist and observe for 48 hours. If you do not notice any irritation or redness, you may go ahead and use it on your face.
- Studies suggest that it is better to avoid using olive oil on babies (1) if you have a family history of eczema as it can cause eczema when the child grows up.
- Olive oil can clog pores as it doesn’t get absorbed into the skin quickly, resulting in acne. You can remove the extra oil using a soft towel or cloth.
- For people with oily skin, eczema or sensitive skin, olive oil may not be recommended. Using this oil may harm your skin (2) as it is heavy and can clog your pores and cause acne.
Usage
You will come across several lotions, soaps, face wash, and other skincare products that have olive oil if you look around. Various cosmetics have olive oil as their base product. You can use olive oil as a moisturiser by applying it directly to your skin. Those affected by sunburn or exposed to the sun can use it too. If you are looking for a natural make-up remover, do try olive oil. Keep in mind that olive oil is heavy and can clog your pores. Hence, avoid using a large quantity.
Some Quick Facts
- If used in the correct quantity and for specific issues, olive oil is excellent for the face. It helps to maintain skin elasticity and firmness.
- Damaged or overripe olives can affect the quality of olive oil. It also gets spoilt if stored improperly.
- Always look for olive oil that has certification from an international body that monitors olive oil production.
- As it contains polyphenols and flavonoids, olive oil encourages cell regeneration giving you younger-looking and glowing skin.
- Olive oil is rich in vitamin E (the main antioxidant) that helps repair the harm caused by free radicals and prevents premature ageing. However, this oil may not be suitable for every skin type.
It’s a Wrap
Olive Oil is a brilliant natural remedy to make your facial skin radiant, smooth and healthy. You can use it directly or using skincare products like face wash, soap, or moisturiser etc., containing olive oil.
Whenever you are introducing your skin to something new, it is better to check if you are allergic to it or not. Do the same when you plan to use olive oil for the first time on your skin. People with oily skin or prone to eczema need to be extra careful and avoid using it. Please seek medical advice if you face any issues, allergy or adverse reaction after using olive oil. A dermatologist can help treat the situation and provide the proper treatment.
FAQs
- Can you put olive oil on your face?
Yes, you can use olive oil on your face as a moisturiser to make your skin glow, prevent ageing, and repair skin blemishes. It comprises antioxidants, vitamin E and squalene etc. If you have eczema, oily or sensitive skin, it is better to avoid using this oil.
- Is it okay to apply olive oil on your face daily?
It is best to avoid applying it every day as it may clog pores.
- Is olive oil bad for your skin?
It is a heavy oil that doesn’t get absorbed easily. Olive oil can lead to clogged pores as well as acne.
- Can olive oil remove dark spots?
There is no truth or evidence to prove this. Applying olive oil will not take away the dark spots or fade them.
