Cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil constitutes phenolic compounds that have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are known to prevent free radicals from causing damage to the body. Olive oil can be used both topically on dry skin and hair or it can be used in cooking. The use of olive oil as a skincare product has been promoted with a reason for centuries. It is especially beneficial for dry, parched and people with sensitive skin, who have a hard time dealing with most products that are not suitable for their skin. To find out more about the benefits of olive oil for face, keep reading.
Components in Olive Oil
- Triacylglycerols (97-98%)
- Free fatty acids – palmitic (C16:0), palmitoleic (C16:1), stearic (C18:0), oleic (C18:1), linoleic (C18:2), and linolenic (C18:3)
- Mono-and diacylglycerols
- Hydrocarbons
- Phenolic alcohol
- Glycosides
- Sterols
- Aliphatic alcohols
- Tocopherols
Using olive oil on face overnight is not a trend or a fad. Its usage has been proven and handed down from history. The secret of extra virgin olive oil for skin as an effective, natural moisturiser has come from the ancient Greeks and Romans.
The presence of polyphenols as a key component in extra virgin olive oil makes olive oil one of the most beneficial products to be used on the skin. Polyphenols are powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants prevent cell and DNA damage from oxidative stress. There are other nutrients present in olive oil as well, namely Vitamin A, E, K, C, and Selenium.
Selenium and the other vitamins as antioxidants present in olive oil promote healthy hair, skin, and nail growth. Selenium, along with Vitamin E, works to protect cells from damage.
Free radicals present inside and outside the barrier of skin cells remain protected by Vitamin C which works as an antioxidant as well.
Olive Oil for Face Benefits
Here are some the essential benefits of using olive oil for face:
1. Moisturises and Fights Bacteria
Acne can either be caused by excessive sebum production (excessive oily skin) or less sebum production (dry, flaky skin). Olive oil is known to have moisturising properties. If your skin is dry and acne-prone, using products with olive oil may help reduce acne by killing bacteria-causing acne.
2. Makeup Removal
As opposed to cosmetic makeup remover products available in the store, olive oil skin benefits is much better to remove makeup. Take a piece of cotton, dampen it with olive oil for face to remove makeup with ease.
3. Sensitive Skin Boon
Applying olive oil on face may help in protecting, nourishing, and moisturising sensitive skin. People with sensitive and/or dry skin can use a few drops of olive oil and massage it on their face as a part of their night-time routine. It can also be added to their existing night cream.
4. Strengthens Skin’s Tonicity
With a high concentration of vitamins, minerals and fatty acids, olive oil can help revitalise dry skin, by giving it elasticity, tonicity, softness and shine. Oleic acid present in olive oil helps to stimulate and promote cell regeneration.
Conclusion
In short, extra virgin olive oil is the best olive for face that can be used in your skincare routine. However, make sure that olive oil is well-suited for your skin type. Olive oil is considered to be one of the healthiest oils that you can consume but its topical application has also proven to improve the texture of dry and sensitive skin.
