The benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) for our health are widely known. Today we talk about its applications on the largest organ of our body: the skin.
The skin covers our entire body and is responsible for protecting our internal organs from external aggressions, among other functions. Therefore, healthy and well-cared-for skin will positively affect our overall health and, why not, our appearance. It is very important to keep the skin well hydrated so that the epidermis remains luminous and healthy.
The main cause of premature skin aging is the action of free radicals, which constantly act on it. While it is impossible to completely stop their action, we can help our cells slow down this aging with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, an excellent antioxidant that balances these radicals and facilitates skin recovery.
Several studies have shown the benefits of vitamin E against the effects of free radicals. Extra Virgin Olive Oil contains 12 milligrams of this vitamin per 100 grams of fat. Therefore, consuming 25 grams daily (approximately two tablespoons) provides half of the recommended daily dose of vitamin E.
But not only is its dietary consumption beneficial for the skin. Its topical application is also beneficial, with positive effects traditionally known and today supported by rigorous research. In the professional cosmetic industry, treatments based on olive oil are made that offer high-quality results without contraindications, promoting skin tissue regeneration and relieving irritated areas of the body.
Let's see some of these uses.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil as a moisturizer
Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a natural moisturizer thanks to its antioxidants and nutrients. Dry skin appears red and irritated, especially in people with sensitive or atopic skin, affected by environmental factors such as pollution, sun, or harsh products. In these cases, Extra Virgin Olive Oil can be very helpful: it is hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and contains no preservatives, colorants, or artificial additives.
Dry, inflamed skin with itching — symptoms of irritation and conditions such as eczema or psoriasis — can be alleviated with a little Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Its application is especially beneficial on areas such as the face, elbows, hands, knees, and feet. It is recommended to apply it with a clean cotton pad, leave it on for a few minutes, and remove it with a damp cloth.
The combination of vitamins A and E hydrates and nourishes the skin surface, giving it a healthier appearance.
Likewise, Extra Virgin Olive Oil is one of the most effective and skin-friendly makeup removers, as it glides easily without the need for strong rubbing, even around the eyes.
For shaving and hair removal, lubricating the skin with a small amount of oil beforehand prevents irritation and redness. It also helps keep hands soft and smooth when applied after washing or using abrasive products, improving the appearance of cuticles, nails, and overall hand skin.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil and hair
We have all heard our grandmothers talk about the benefits of olive oil for hair. This tradition, which was almost lost, has been recovered in modern hair care treatments. Applied as a mask a few minutes before washing, it helps repair dry and damaged hair.
Dry, dull, and brittle hair can improve significantly if Extra Virgin Olive Oil is applied from the ends to the scalp, with gentle massages that stimulate follicle hydration and nourish the hair fiber. Thanks to its vitamin E content, results can be noticeable from the first application.
Other uses of Extra Virgin Olive Oil in cosmetics
Lips are especially sensitive to cold and sun, and tend to dry or crack. Applied as a balm, Extra Virgin Olive Oil allows nutrient absorption and helps repair the skin by eliminating cracks.
It also has regenerative properties for eyelashes, strengthening and making them fuller. Just apply a few drops and rinse after a few minutes.
Nails, frequently exposed to chemicals, soaps, or cleaners, can crack or weaken. Covering them with Extra Virgin Olive Oil nourishes the upper layers and softens the cuticle.
In addition to all these benefits from direct application of Extra Virgin Olive Oil, many cosmetic products incorporate it into their formula, even using it as a base: soaps, shampoos, creams, or massage ointments, which we will dedicate a future entry to.
