Olive Oil And Skin Care

Olive oil differs from other oils in that it is extracted from a fruit and not from a seed or grain.

Types of Olive oil

 

Extra virgin -   considered the best, least processed, comprising the oil from the first pressing of the olives.

Virgin - from the second pressing.

Pure -  undergoes some processing, such as filtering and refining.

Nutrients present in Olive Oil

Olive oil is full of nutrients which are extremely good for skin. This is a cheaper and natural alternative for good moisturizer. Olive oil will not clog pores, so you can liberally apply it on your face. It also contains a lot of nutrients. 

Antioxidants - Olive oil is rich in antioxidants including vitamins A and E, polyphenols, phytosterols (It is said to not only stop the slow down of collagen production caused by sun but also encourages new collagen production, thus helps in anti ageing)  and avenasterol. They work to neutralize free radicals and repair cell membranes. A free radical is an unstable molecule created by exposure to things like cigarette smoke, pollution, alcohol and radiation.

Squalene - A natural organic compound used in cosmetics as a moisturizer. It is taken from the liver of sharks, but also found in olive oil - a more environmentally friendly source. Squalene helps to regulate sebum. Sebum is produced by the sebacious glands in our skin and is secreted through our pores. It forms a coating on the skin that acts as a barrier, inhibits the growth of micro-organisms and lubricates our skin and hair.

Chlorophyll - A photosynthetic pigment found in plants and algae. This helps a great deal in healing wounds and other scars. Acne blemishes will be nothing but a bad dream, after you apply plenty of olive oil on your skin.

Skin and Hair Care

Skin Moisturizer - Whether applied to face or body, olive oil will penetrate deep into the skin and provide a long-lasting shield of moisture to keep skin smooth and supple. Can be used either as a night cream or daily moisturizer, it is best applied to damp skin.

Nail and Cuticle Care - Extra virgin olive oil makes the perfect, simple solution for dry nails and cuticles. Simply rub a few drops into the cuticle area and around the nail. Cuticles stay plump and moist, and nails respond with a natural shine.

Eye Makeup Remover - Just a drop or two of extra virgin olive oil on a cotton pad is all it takes to gently and effectively remove eye makeup without irritating the delicate skin around the eye area. The biggest added advantage is that when used consistently, olive oil can soften the skin around the eyes and smooth out wrinkles.

Hair Care - When used on hair and scalp, olive oil can be considered two products: a deep conditioner and a dandruff controller. After shampooing, massage a mixture of equal amounts of olive oil and water into your hair. Leave on for 5 minutes, then shampoo and rinse. Your scalp will benefit from healthy conditioning; your hair will respond with more shine and strength.

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