Olive oil is magic, and for thousands of years, it has been a big part of human history. People have used it for food, medicine, lighting lamps, religious rituals, soap, and skincare.
Now, a millennia later, picture this, you’re travelling and you just realised you’ve forgotten your cleanser. And even though after a long day of sightseeing, your makeup is still holding strong, you still need a way to remove it before heading to bed. So, instead of reaching for those harsh hotel soaps, simple olive oil will do the trick. However, travelling or not, olive oil as a cleanser is king. Let’s talk about it.
Why Exactly Is Olive Oil So Special?
Olives are beyond amazing because they’re rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, like oleic acid, which support heart health. They’re also packed with antioxidants, such as vitamin E. Nutritionally, olive oil can help lower “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and boost “good” cholesterol (HDL). It may also reduce plaque buildup in your arteries and contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can ease inflammation.
On top of that, it offers protection against harmful chemicals linked to cancer and may even help prevent type 2 diabetes. But that’s not all. It may also lower your risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, as well as postmenopausal osteoporosis.
When it comes to your skin and hair, olive oil can work wonders. It can be used as a moisturiser, exfoliator, or face mask. It’s perfect for treating dry or scaly skin, and brace yourself, olive oil can even serve as a makeup remover! Of course, the latter is what we will be discussing today.
Before we begin though, here is a fun fact. Did you know olive oil-based unguents (i.e. ointments, balms, lotions, creams, and emollients) have been found in 5,000-year-old Egyptian tombs? This just goes to show once more that olive oil has stood the test of time and was loved over 1826250 days ago the same way it is loved today.
How Olive Oil Can Replace Your Cleanser
Olive oil is gentle on the skin and cuts through even the most stubborn makeup without leaving unwanted residue behind. Unlike those previously mentioned tiny hotel bars of soap, often harsh and drying, olive oil keeps your skin feeling soft and moisturised.
Not to mention, due to its high vitamin E content, olive oil can help protect against sun damage too. And you don’t need a lot, a small amount of olive oil will do. The more you know, right? Ruby Hammer, makeup artist and founder of Ruby Hammer Beauty, swears by this trick for times when she’s forgotten her usual cleanser.
“It’s such a simple solution. Olive oil not only takes off all my makeup, but it also keeps my skin moisturised and soft, without needing any other products.”
Here’s How You Can Use It
- Warm It: Take a small amount of olive oil and warm it between your palms. This helps the oil spread more easily and feels much nicer on the skin.
- Massage It: Gently massage the oil onto your face, focusing on areas with heavy makeup like around the eyes. The oil breaks down makeup (even waterproof mascara!) without needing to rub too hard.
- Wipe It: Once your makeup is broken down, take a warm, wet towel and wipe the oil off your skin. This helps remove any residue, leaving your skin feeling clean and beautiful.
Tip: If your skin is prone to acne breakouts, remember to thoroughly rinse everything off afterwards, as any leftover oil can potentially clog your pores if not cleaned properly.
Other Magical Uses
As amazing as using it as a makeup remover is, here are even more stunning ways that olive oil can benefit your life and skin. You can use it to:
- Moisturise Dry Skin: If your skin feels dry after a day in the sun or a long flight, a little olive oil can act as a quick moisturiser. It absorbs beautifully without feeling greasy.
- Nourish Your Cuticles: Massage a small amount into your cuticles to keep them healthy and soft.
- Tame Rugged Hair Ends: Olive oil is perfect for smoothing the dry ends of your hair. A tiny bit can make a big difference in controlling unwanted frizz.
Here Is A Quick Recap
Olive oil is a beyond amazing product to help remove your makeup, cleanse your skin, and even keep it moisturised. This age-old product from the kitchen is simple, natural, and best of all, it’s almost always within reach!
If you are an avid olive oil fan, let us know in the comment section below about other olive oil uses you heavily rely on. Remember, sharing is caring and we cannot wait to hear what you have to say.
