Olive oil is derived from the olive tree native to the Mediterranean region. It is a liquid fat extracted from olives through pressing, containing healthy fatty acids that contribute to smooth, supple, and clear skin.
With a history of use as a skincare remedy dating back to ancient times, olive oil was utilized by Egyptians alongside beeswax for its moisturizing, cleansing, and antibacterial properties. Rich in vitamins A and E, olive oil hydrates the skin, maintains its elasticity, and promotes a softer, more youthful appearance. It aids in skin cell regeneration, contributing to overall skin health.
Here are five ways olive oil can be incorporated into your skincare routine to help you achieve a more youthful appearance:
- Olive Oil Bath: Add 5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to your bathwater or massage it onto your body before bathing for soft and smooth skin. Olive oil contains antioxidants like vitamin E, phytosterols, and polyphenols, which protect the skin from premature aging and UV damage.
- Olive Oil Eye Cream: Chill olive oil in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours and apply it as an eye cream before bedtime or in the morning to reduce fine lines and nourish delicate under-eye skin.
- Olive Oil Face Masks: Mix one egg yolk with a tablespoon of olive oil (and optionally, a teaspoon of lemon juice) and apply the mixture to your clean face for 10 minutes. Rinse with warm water followed by cold water to close pores and reveal nourished, glowing skin.
- Olive Oil Makeup Remover: Use a few drops of olive oil on a cotton ball to gently remove makeup, or massage olive oil directly onto your face to dissolve heavy makeup before wiping it off with a warm, damp cloth.
- Olive Oil Exfoliator: Combine olive oil with sea salt to create a gentle exfoliating scrub. Rub the mixture onto your skin to remove dead cells and reveal smoother, renewed skin.
Incorporating olive oil into your skincare routine can help maintain youthful-looking skin by providing hydration, nourishment, and protection against environmental damage.