Olive oil

In the Mediterranean, it is called green gold and has been part of beauty rituals since ancient times. It is a rich source of vitamin E and fatty acids that effectively nourish, hydrate, and protect the skin. The skin absorbs it exceptionally well because its composition is similar to the structure of fatty tissue in our subcutaneous layer. Natural antioxidants (vitamins A and E) neutralize free radicals and protect the skin. Extra virgin, cold-pressed olive oil is a rich source of many valuable substances. It contains health-beneficial unsaturated fatty acids omega-6 and omega-3 (about 60–80%), vitamins A, D, E, and K. Olive oil is especially suitable for dry and sensitive skin and has wonderful effects in caring for skin affected by eczema and inflammation. It beautifully oils, hydrates, and nourishes the skin. The main anti-inflammatory effect comes from antioxidants, especially oleocanthal, which has effects similar to ibuprofen, a popular anti-inflammatory drug. Olive oil contains oleic acid and oleocanthal, nutrients that can fight inflammation, and that is also why olive oil has strong health effects. It comes from the fruits of the European olive tree; cold pressing yields extra virgin quality with preserved bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and squalene.

Olive oil intensely moisturizes the skin because its fatty acids, especially oleic acid (up to 83%), replenish the skin’s lipid barrier and prevent moisture loss. It restores the skin barrier because its structure resembles human fatty tissue, thereby supporting regeneration. As a powerful antioxidant, it neutralizes free radicals thanks to vitamin E (mainly alpha-tocopherol) and polyphenols such as hydroxytyrosol. It has anti-inflammatory effects through oleocanthal, which inhibits enzymes similar to ibuprofen, and soothes irritated skin. Triterpenes accelerate collagen production during wound healing. In cosmetics, it is used in concentrations of 5-20% in emulsions for hydration, without specific limits for sensitive skin.

I recommend olive oil for dry, sensitive, dehydrated, and mature skin, where it intensely hydrates and reduces wrinkles. It is ideal for skin with eczema, psoriasis, or acne thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce redness and support healing. Avoid it for oily skin, where it can clog pores if overused. Suitable for all age groups, especially in the winter months for protection against the cold.

Studies confirm the effects: Application of olive oil after UVB exposure reduced the incidence of skin tumors and delayed their onset in mice (Journal of Dermatological Science, experimental data). Oleocanthal at a concentration equivalent to 50 mg/kg shows anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes similar to ibuprofen (Nature, 2005). Vitamin E in olive oil increases collagen content in the skin and reduces dark circles under the eyes with topical application (clinical observations). (Total 312 words)