Olive Oil continually amazes me with all its uses. Using olive oil as a skin conditioner should not be left out. In order to reap the benefits of olive oil as a skin conditioner, this can be obtained in two different applications. You can consume it orally or topically.
The oral method is to consume cold pressed extra virgin olive oil. You can do this by adding it to many dishes such as green salads and pasta salads as well as many other dishes. Don’t spend your money on cheap versions. The nutritional value and flavor of the better brands outweighs any additional costs.
The second method of skin conditioning from olive oil is to apply it topically. Just put some on your skin directly to reap the benefits. Olive oil contains polyphenols which are one of the secret ingredients in olives. Hydroxytyrosol is a very potent polyphenol compound that is contained in the more higher concentrations of better grade olive oil. It will actually stabilize the cell plasma membrane which in turn will help slow down the process of aging skin.
Additionally, researchers have found that by increasing your diet with olive oil polyphenols, it can help provide protection for skin which has been damaged by the sun, as well as increase how much moisture your skin can retain. This application is non-toxic and safe and gentle to use, and can minimize the appearance of premature aging lines and wrinkles. It will even make your skin tone more even, as well as brighten the overall appearance of your skin. You can also use this application to soothe scratches and help heal sunburn. Olive oil can also be used for shaving women’s legs and it contains no toxins as often found in shaving creams. Just imagine condition your legs while you shave them!
A few other health benefits of olive oil rich in polyphenols, besides skin conditioning, are as follows:
- Enhances your cardiovascular system
- Helps the functionality of your colon
- Provide some protection from second hand smoke
- Reduces the risk of prostate and breast cancer
- Help prevent osteoporosis in adults
- Assist in bone development for children
- Helps with your food absorption
Olive oil is a great facial cleanser that doesn’t leave your skin oily as one might presume. There are even methods out there that can be used for acne sufferers and again, it does not add to the oiliness sometimes accompanied with acne.
If you suffer from dry patches on your skin, apply some olive oil mixed with a little warm water. It will not make it disappear completely, nor stop all the itching. However, this will help reduce the itching as well as begin to help the dry patch to dissipate. It will not leave your skin greasy as it is very quickly absorbed into the skin.
So pick your pleasure when it comes to helping your skin by using olive oil. The options are pretty much limitless.