Benefits of Olive Oil for your Skin

Applying olive oil on your skin has benefits and risks.

Olive oil is a pantry staple that is known for its health benefits in our diets. It turns out it may be just as beneficial for our skin as well.

Currently, we know of the following skin benefits of olive oil:

- Moisturizes the skin: Olive oil contains squalene and vitamin E. Squalene supports the skin's moisture retention, whereas vitamin E increases the skin's capacity to absorb and retain water.

- Reduces the signs of aging. Olive oil is rich in antidioxidants. These compounds can combat oxidative stress, which is associated with skin aging. They can also increase collagen in the skin.

- Helps cleanse the skin. Because like attracts like, olive oil can be used to dissolve oily residue on the skin. That said, it can be used to remove certain types of makeup - particularly waterproof products.

- Promotes wound healing: olive oil also has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can aid in wound healing.