Olive Oil in Skincare: New Ways that Skin Care Products Use Natural Antioxidants

Sacramento, CA (PRWEB) April 17, 2008 -- There's a reason the olive is so revered in the Mediterranean. Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, olive oil has been used as a culinary and cosmetic ingredient for centuries. Skincare-News.com's latest article, "Olive Oil," sheds new light on this ancient ingredient, using some interesting information many people don't know about the benefits olive oil offers for the skin. http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=534

What is it? Olive oil has a long history: The ancient Greeks bathed in it; athletes ritually anointed their bodies with the oil. Ancient Egyptians embalmed mummies before burial with olive oil. In ancient Rome, the oil was infused with flowers and herbs to create medicine and cosmetics. Even Cleopatra, admired for her beauty and flawless skin, used olive oil perfumes and cosmetics.

Rich in vitamin E and other antioxidants, olive oil is often used to treat and prevent cardiovascular disease and regulate cholesterol. When used topically, olive oil moisturizes and protects the skin, keeping it smooth and firm. Hydroxytyrosol, a potent antioxidant found in olives, and vitamin E help fight free radicals and prevent cell degeneration. Extra virgin olive oil contains squalene, a very emollient substance similar to sebum. Research has shown squalene improves elasticity, protects the skin from dehydration and improves vitality and tone.

Where to find it: No doubt fascinated by its versatile properties, Homer is credited as describing olive oil as "liquid gold." Clearly this sentiment exists today; we use olive oil for cooking, as a garnish and in skin care and beauty products. Olive oil is used as an ingredient in a bevy of products, including shampoos, hand lotions, soaps, cleansers, scrubs and masks.

What to expect: Because olive oil is rich in antioxidants, researchers speculate it might help counteract the effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Studies in Japan suggest that the antioxidants in olive oil help neutralize free radical damage. And while olive oil isn't a sunscreen and doesn't prevent UV rays from penetrating the skin, using it in skin care products might further protect the skin against extrinsic aging and damage from the sun. Olive oil is also a powerful moisturizer and humectant, so expect to get deep hydration.

Who should avoid it: Similar in composition to sebum, olive oil is naturally compatible with human skin, making it useful for many skin types. Skin conditions such as eczema and acne respond well to products made with olive oil because of the oil's anti-bacterial properties. Also, since it's so mild, allergic reactions are rare.

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About SkinCare-News.com -- "Your Source for Intelligent Skin Care"

Skincare-News.com is the online source for consumers seeking intelligent beauty and skin care news, advice, tips and articles. Founded in 2005, SkinCare-News.com features articles, news items and frequently asked questions on skincare and beauty related issues. SkinCare-News.com is located in Sacramento, California, but receives visitors from all around the world. For more information, visit http://www.skincare-news.com.

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