Six olive oil natural beauty hacks
Greeks have used the “golden elixir” to enhance beauty for more than 4,000 years, Cleopatra used it in her bathing routine, and today celebrities Julia Roberts, Emma Stone and Gwyneth Paltrow swear by olive oil skin treatments.
And research shows, it’s not a coincidence. Olive oil is a great source of antioxidants, including vitamin E, which according to American dermatologist, Dr Patricia Farris, effectively prevent free-radicals and protect against wrinkles, ageing and inflammation.six best beauty olive oil Uses:
Hair revitaliser
One of the best ways to naturally reverse the effects of hair damage is an olive oil pre-shampoo treatment. The Vitamin E in olive oil helps hydrate hair, and its antioxidant properties will protect your hair from free radicals which are known to cause hair loss. Just take a few tablespoons of plain olive oil and massage it directly onto your scalp and hair. Leave on for 30 minutes, then shampoo as usual. Do this weekly, and you’ll notice your hair will become healthier, shinier and stronger.
Makeup remover for all skin types
Makeup is fun, but we all know the removal process can be a pain - especially if it’s water-resistant. Olive oil is also the perfect all-natural makeup remover, good for all skin types and sensitive skins. Not only can it easily remove long-lasting makeup, but it has the extra benefit of acting as a mini facial treatment, infusing your skin with moisture and antioxidants. Simply apply a teaspoon of olive oil to your face, massage it for 10-20 seconds. Then gently wipe it away with a soft, wet face cloth.
Super moisturiser
The phenolic compound found in olive oil is scientifically proven to have antibacterial properties, making it an ideal moisturiser for all skin types – even oily and acne-prone ones. It is also a beauty guru favourite because it naturally hydrates and is absorbed quickly. A tip is to apply a small amount of olive oil after a shower, then allow it to absorb into your skin before applying another layer of skincare. By putting olive oil as the first layer of your skincare routine for both face and body, it will lock in moisture without clogging pores or causing breakouts. It’s also budget-friendly!
Scrub and exfoliator
Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, allowing skincare to better absorb into skin. And to make your exfoliation routine extra effective, simply add a few drops of olive oil to your usual scrub for a soothing and moisturising boost. Or to make an all-natural scrub, simply mix a half cup of brown sugar, a half cup of olive oil and a few drops of your favourite essential oil together in a bowl.
Aid digestion and eliminate bloating
If you ever wake up feeling bloated, we have the cure for you! Instead of drugstore laxatives, which can cause cramping in some people, reach for olive oil, a chemical-free alternative that can prevent constipation and avoid bloating. A spoonful of extra virgin olive oil on an empty stomach in the morning is recommended for alleviating constipation, as it can help lubricate the bowel.
Rejuvenating footcare
From cracked heels caused by dry weather to tired feet in need of TLC, olive oil is here to save the day! Just before bed, rub a generous amount of olive oil into each foot, focusing on the heel area. Then just put on a pair of socks to seal in the natural goodness. Olive oil will soften and soothe dry and callused feet, making them sandal-ready in no time.
