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For skincare enthusiasts, facial oils are often a favorite, especially when they include ingredients readily available in your kitchen. Olive oil, for instance, has been celebrated for its skin benefits for centuries (legend has it Cleopatra was a devoted user). However, while consuming a Mediterranean diet can enhance skin health, the effectiveness of applying olive oil directly to your face remains debatable. We consulted dermatologists to determine if olive oil is a suitable choice for skincare.
Santje09/Getty ImagesSkin Benefits of Olive Oil
The same qualities that make olive oil a nutritious addition to your meals also make it an excellent option for topical application.
Hydrating Advantages
Packed with monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants, this emollient boasts exceptional moisturizing capabilities. For those with severely dry or damaged skin, olive oil can be a beneficial remedy, particularly in the chilly winter season.
"Our skin's health depends on its lipid barrier, which binds skin cells together. During colder months, heaters tend to deplete this barrier, causing dryness and cracks," says Neda Mehr, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director at Pure Dermatology Cosmetic & Hair Center in Newport Beach, Calif. "Olive oil serves as a superb moisturizer, especially when applied to damp skin with open pores, and can function as a protective layer for dry, cracked skin in winter."
Healing Properties
Olive oil also boasts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Dermatologists highlight that its anti-inflammatory components, such as triterpenes, promote wound healing by boosting collagen production and speeding up the recovery process.
Anti-Aging Benefits
Rich in essential fats and vitamins, olive oil enhances skin elasticity and diminishes the visibility of fine lines. Research indicates that its nourishing qualities stimulate collagen synthesis, contributing to a firmer and more youthful complexion.
Potential Skin Side Effects of Olive Oil
Despite its excellent moisturizing abilities, olive oil can be problematic for those with acne-prone skin. "For conditions like acne, where excess oil production is an issue, olive oil can exacerbate the problem by clogging pores and triggering severe breakouts," notes Dr. Mehr.
Although olive oil can aid in soothing sunburn, it should never be applied before sun exposure. "Recall the 1950s trend of using baby oil to tan," Dr. Mehr explains. "Applying olive oil in the morning without proper sun protection, such as sunscreen or protective clothing, increases the risk of sunburn and serious skin damage."
Is Olive Oil Beneficial for Your Skin?
Opinions on using olive oil directly on the skin vary. "Generally, olive oil isn't the best option for skincare," states Anna Babayan, an esthetician and founder of Anna Babayan Skincare in Boston. "Our skin lacks the enzymes needed to process olive oil's molecules and absorb its benefits, so it merely forms a protective layer on the surface, preventing moisture loss." Babayan recommends consuming olive oil to fully utilize its beneficial properties.
Conversely, Dr. Mehr believes olive oil can be advantageous for certain conditions. "It works well for individuals with atopic dermatitis, commonly referred to as eczema, a condition affecting the skin's natural bonding agents," she notes.
However, Dr. Mehr cautions against using olive oil as a remedy for dark spots or hyperpigmentation, despite its antioxidant content. "This overestimates its antioxidant capabilities, as it can trigger acne and worsen pigmentation when used before sun exposure, making the skin more prone to discoloration," she adds.
In summary, olive oil is only recommended for skincare if you have extremely dry or damaged skin, serving as a protective component. "Individuals with dry skin often have a weakened skin barrier due to insufficient natural oils," Babayan explains. "This can result in moisture loss and severe dehydration—applying olive oil can form a barrier, preventing water from evaporating from the skin."
How to Apply Olive Oil for Skin
If you decide to use pure olive oil on your skin, Dr. Mehr advises applying it within three minutes after showering at night (never before sun exposure). Gently massage a few drops over your regular moisturizer to lock in hydration, rather than applying it to dry skin.
"After patting your skin dry post-shower, apply a few drops of olive oil, preferably before bed, and only on areas not prone to acne, such as hands, forearms, and legs," Dr. Mehr suggests. Always opt for organic, extra-virgin olive oil, as non-organic varieties may contain pesticides that are harmful when applied to the skin.
Alternatives to Olive Oil
That said, numerous oils are lighter, absorb quickly, and are suitable for most skin types, including acne-prone skin. These oils provide an extra boost of hydration without triggering breakouts or sun-related damage.
Jojoba Oil
Ken Howe, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Wexler Dermatology, suggests jojoba oil due to its chemical similarity to the skin's natural sebum. This allows it to absorb rapidly, refine pores, and control excess oil production. Additionally, jojoba oil is praised for its soothing and moisturizing effects, as well as its ability to combat acne-causing bacteria.
Tea Tree Oil
Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Connecticut, recommends tea tree oil for acne-prone skin. Its natural antibacterial properties make it an effective treatment for active acne and a preventive measure against future breakouts.
Maracuja Oil
For those seeking anti-aging advantages, maracuja oil is an excellent choice, packed with essential fatty acids and vitamin C. Dr. Robinson highlights its ability to promote firmer, more radiant, and smoother skin. "Vitamin C acts as a potent antioxidant, shielding the skin from free radicals and aiding in its repair," she explains.
