You probably have it in your kitchen right now.
Log in to view the full article
You probably have it in your kitchen right now.
I'm not talking about milk or last night's leftovers, I mean what could be the next staple in your skin care products.
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is a rising ingredient trend, especially for well-agers looking to nourish their skin barriers, which EVOO does while promoting cell regeneration. While it may be tempting for some people to ditch their more costly products for something they can lump in with their grocery list, it's important that they don't go tossing their skin care yet.
While a useful ingredient, EVOO isn't a catch-all replacement for clinically effective and lab-tested products.
And no—regardless of what you may have heard on TikTok, it's not a replacement for traditional sunscreen, and may even worsen sun damage. This goes doubly when treating hyperpigmentation, as EVOO may worsen the appearance of dark spots with sun exposure.
So, what exactly are the benefits of EVOO, and where do we draw the line?
Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Elaine Sterling, LE, cleared the air for us.
On top of being a licensed esthetician, she's also a LEI, ITEC, CIDESCO, the founder of The Elaine Sterling Institute and the best-selling author of Beauty Beyond the Mirror.
"EVOO offers a unique combination of efficacy and nourishment due to its rich profile of antioxidants, vitamins and fatty acids," says Sterling. "Its benefits go far beyond basic moisturization."
First things first, is efficacy.
"EVOO is clinically recognized for its ability to support skin barrier function, reduce inflammation and promote healing. Its high concentration of oleic acid and squalene helps restore hydration and elasticity, while polyphenols and vitamin E combat oxidative stress and premature aging," she clarifies.
"Not all olive oils are created equal," Sterling adds. "It’s important to distinguish EVOO from other grades of olive oil. Only cold-pressed, unrefined EVOO retains the full spectrum of skin-beneficial compounds. Refined or “light” olive oils lose much of their antioxidant and vitamin content during processing, reducing their effectiveness in skin care applications."
Sterling also goes on to confirm EVOO's vitamin content.
"EVOO contains vitamins A, D, E and K. Vitamin E is especially valuable for skin repair and protection, while vitamin A supports cell turnover and collagen production. These nutrients work synergistically to nourish and rejuvenate the skin."
How to EVOO
Most of the benefits of EVOO are referenced in terms of topical applications, but the antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds and vitamins can still benefit those who consume it.
Retailing products with EVOO can be a great way to introduce the benefits of the ingredient to your clients in a safe way while boosting sales. Ode Olive Oil Beauty offers wholesale pricing for spas that would like to carry their products.
Other pro brands, may use olive leaf extract in their formulations, like SkinCeuticals in their Phyto Corrective line.
In any case, however you choose to EVOO, you can always trust that whether you prefer to wear it or eat it, it'll always be ready and waiting.
