Olive oil for oily skin: Benefits and uses

Oily skin can be particularly difficult to deal with. It can easily result in acne, clogged pores, blackheads, and a greasy skin texture. When the skin overproduces sebum, it ends up attracting dirt and bacteria, giving rise to more skin issues. Surprisingly, olive oil can be helpful for oily skin! Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats, it helps balance the skin’s natural oil production. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities also soothe irritated skin and reduce acne. So, let us tell you more about this natural remedy for managing oily skin.

What is olive oil?

Olive oil is a nutrient-dense oil derived from pressing olives and expressing the oil. It contains healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which may be beneficial to the skin when applied directly, according to a 2020 study published in the Bioscience Research Journal. Olive oil can be applied topically to the skin to cure oily and dry skin. Several cosmetic products, such as soaps and lotions, include olive oil in their compositions for skin benefits.

How does olive oil help oily skin?

Olive oil is a natural moisturiser that reduces bacteria and inflammation, as per a study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology. “It is a wonderful moisturiser that helps trap moisture in your skin, calms your sebaceous glands, and reduces oil production. It is also high in antioxidants, which aid in restoring and maintaining your skin’s health, avoiding damage. Plus, it has powerful antibacterial properties that treat acne, a typical problem with oily skin types, and help clear your skin,” says trichologist and cosmetologist Dr Kiran Sandeep Singh.

How to use olive oil to manage oily skin?

From direct topical use to various face packs, here are different ways to use olive oil for oily skin!

1. Olive and honey face pack

Honey is ideal for sensitive, acne-prone skin because it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, as per a 2011 study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine. Olive oil and honey are high in minerals, have antioxidant properties, and leave the skin smooth and lustrous.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil

Method

• Combine honey and olive oil in a small, heat-resistant bowl.
• Reheat in the microwave for 10 seconds to soften the honey.
• Apply a little layer of the mixture to your face using a brush or the tips of your fingers.
• After 10 minutes, remove with a clean cloth and warm water.

2. Olive oil and almond face pack

Olive oil gives your skin a natural glow and lustre, while almonds moisturise your skin. Almonds are high in vitamin E, which helps to keep your skin moist and supple, as per a 2010 study published in the Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice Journal.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoons of almond powder
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar

Method

• In a mixing bowl, combine one tablespoon of almond powder and two tablespoons of brown sugar.
• Add two tablespoons of olive oil as well.
• Combine the ingredients, then use your fingertips to gently press the paste onto your face and neck for a few minutes.
• Apply it to your skin for 3-5 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
• Use this almond face pack twice a week to exfoliate your skin.

3. Olive oil and vitamin E face pack

Vitamin E oil is a strong fat-soluble antioxidant that may rejuvenate the skin. Regular use can help the skin rejuvenate, giving it a more youthful, healthier appearance. Extra-virgin olive oil also lessens pigmentation and other flaws, such as dark spots, and encourages the renewal of skin cells.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of vitamin E oil

Method

• In a bowl, combine the olive oil and vitamin E oil.
• Using your hands, gently massage the blended oil onto your face.
• Allow it to remain on your face all night.
• In the morning, wash it off with warm water.

4. Olive oil and lemon juice

Lemon contains L-ascorbic acid, which has potent astringent qualities. These features may aid in pore reduction and oil production regulation. Also, it contains potent antioxidants that may protect skin from harm.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• ½ tablespoon of lemon juice

Method

• Mix the ingredients until fully blended.
• After applying this mixture to your face, massage it in circular strokes.
• After a few minutes of rubbing, leave the mixture on for a further five to seven minutes.
• Use warm water to rinse it off.

Olive oil face masks for oily skin are generally safe. However, it’s crucial to perform a patch test before applying it on the face.