Olive Oil

In the world of skin care, startling antiaging and antiwrinkle properties can be attributed to almost any plant-sourced ingredient. Among those is olive oil. The concept of olive oil having antiaging properties stems from some evidence that diets high in olive oil may help prevent heart disease (Sources: European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, January 2002, pages 72–81; Lipids, November 2001, Supplemental, pages S49–S52; Lipids, November 2001, pages 1195–1202). There are also a small number of animal tests showing that topically applied olive oil can protect against UVB damage (Sources: Carcinogenesis, November 2000, pages 2085–2090; Journal of Dermatological Science, March 2000, Supplemental, pages S45–S50).

It does seem that olive oil is a good antioxidant and assuredly it's a good moisturizing ingredient. But research shows similar results for other oils as well, so olive oil isn’t the only option. And despite all of the skin-care products boasting of containing olive oil, if you have dry to very dry skin, the pure stuff you can buy at your local grocery store is the best way to get it.

Along with other non-fragrant plant oils (such as evening primrose, black currant, and jojoba) olive oil is beneficial for skin because of its fatty acid content. Olive oil contains essential fatty acids dry skin needs, including oleic, palmitic, and linoleic acids. It also contains phenolic compounds that provide antioxidant benefit. Also worth mentioning is olive oil’s anti-inflammatory property. Although this benefit has been demonstrated when olive oil is consumed orally, it is reasonable to assume that topical application would net this benefit too. Olive oil appears to decrease pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids while increasing anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids (Source: National Medicines Comprehensive Database, 10th Edition, 2008, pages 1,089-1,091).

Try mixing a few drops of extra virgin olive oil with your regular nighttime moisturizer and see if it offers your dry skin additional improvement. Olive oil may also be applied around the eyes if skin in this area is dry. You may also apply olive oil by itself as a nighttime treatment, or try mixing it with your body lotion for enhance results. And of course, cooking with olive oil will indirectly convey its health benefits to your skin and hair, too.