Greeks have used the 'golden elixir' to enhance beauty for more than 4000 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 to protect against wrinkles, aging and inflammation[1].Wondering how best to incorporate olive oil into your beauty regimen? Keep reading!
6 Best Beauty Olive Oil Uses:
1. Hair Revitalizer
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[2]. 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 is fun, but we all know the removal process can be a pain - especially if it's water-resistant.
But did you know Olive oil is 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.

The phenolic compound found in olive oil is scientifically proven to have antibacterial properties[3], making it an ideal moisturizer for all skin types – even oily and acne-prone ones. It is also a beauty guru favorite 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!

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 to add a soothing and moisturizing 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 favorite essential oil together in a bowl.
5. 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.
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.
Olive oil is not only a cooking hero in the kitchen, it's a multi-purpose beauty staple! Try incorporating it into your daily routine, for the best results internally and externally. Starting from eating food cooked with olive oil to enjoy the health benefits it offers, and then as your natural beauty secret!