By Yemisi Suleiman

For centuries, olive oil has been regarded as a kitchen staple, but its advantages extend far beyond the kitchen. This liquid gold has also been a staple in beauty routines for ages and for good reason too.

Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids, olive oil is a natural wonder that can transform your skin in ways you never thought possible. And if you’re looking for a more natural way to hydrate your skin, it would be beneficial to incorporate olive oil into your skincare routine and unlock the secret to radiant, healthy-looking skin that glows from within.

Benefits of Olive Oil

1. Moisturising dry skin
   Olive oil helps seal in moisture, softening dry skin. It can be especially effective on dry skin during winter months. You can also use olive oil to moisturise chapped lips.
2. Healing wounds
   When you apply olive oil to a wound, it acts as a second skin barrier and aids wound healing. Olive oil’s anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation.
3. Minimising signs of aging
   Healthy fats and antioxidants in olive oil may plump up aging skin, giving you a more youthful appearance. Studies suggest that polyphenols (plant nutrients) in olive oil help make collagen, which minimises wrinkles and makes skin more elastic.
4. Removing makeup
   Olive oil can help get rid of oily skin residue from makeup, as well as skin pollutants. A dab of olive oil on a cotton ball or washcloth can also remove waterproof mascara.

How to Incorporate Olive Oil into Your Skincare Routine:

• Use olive oil as a moisturiser, applying it directly to your skin after bathing or showering, when your skin is still damp. Your pores are more open, so they absorb more of the oily moisture.
• Mix olive oil with other natural ingredients like honey or lemon juice to create a nourishing face mask.
• Apply olive oil to specific areas of concern, such as dry patches or fine lines, for targeted hydration and nourishment.

Tips and Precautions:

• Choose high-quality, extra-virgin olive oil for maximum benefits.
• Be mindful of your skin type and start with a small patch test to ensure you don’t have any sensitivity or allergic reactions.
• Use olive oil in moderation, as excessive use can clog pores or exacerbate oily skin.

*Sunburn- Unlike sunscreen, olive oil has no sun protection factor (SPF). So, make sure to apply a sunscreen whenever you apply Olive Oil, this is to prevent sun burn or skin cancer.