ADVERTISEMENT
Antioxidant Protection: The antioxidants in olive oil, such as polyphenols and phytosterols, help to combat free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage your skin cells and accelerate aging.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Olive oil contains oleocanthal, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory effects. This can help soothe irritation and redness associated with dry, flaky skin.
How to Use Olive Oil for Dry Skin
My nana’s method is as simple as it gets. Here’s her step-by-step guide to using olive oil for dry skin:
Choose the Right Olive Oil: Go for extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) if possible. This type of olive oil is the least processed and retains the highest levels of antioxidants and vitamins.
Apply to Damp Skin: After a shower or washing your face, pat your skin dry with a towel, leaving it slightly damp. Nana swears this helps the oil absorb better.
Warm the Oil: Pour a small amount of olive oil into your hands and rub them together to warm it up. This makes the oil more pliable and easier to spread.
Massage Gently: Gently massage the oil into your skin using circular motions. Focus on areas that are particularly dry, like your elbows, knees, and hands. Take your time to ensure it’s evenly spread.
Let It Absorb: Allow the olive oil to sit on your skin for a few minutes to absorb fully. You can gently pat off any excess with a towel if needed, but Nana insists that letting it fully absorb gives the best results.
Use Overnight for Intensive Care: For an extra boost of hydration, apply a thicker layer of olive oil to your skin before bed and let it work its magic overnight. Just be sure to wear old pajamas to avoid any oil stains.
Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
Consistency is Key: Like most skincare routines, the key to success with olive oil is consistency. Incorporate it into your daily routine for the best results.
Mix With Other Ingredients: If you want to enhance its benefits, you can mix olive oil with other natural ingredients. For example, honey has antibacterial properties and can help in further moisturizing, while sugar can act as an exfoliant when mixed with olive oil for a DIY scrub.
Patch Test First: While olive oil is generally safe for most skin types, it's always a good idea to do a patch test first to make sure you don’t have any adverse reactions.
Why My Nana’s Trick Works Better Than Expensive Products
In today’s world, we are bombarded with advertisements for high-end skincare products promising miraculous results. However, many of these products contain fillers, preservatives, and fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin. Olive oil, on the other hand, is natural, free from harsh chemicals, and has been used for centuries as a beauty treatment.
Moreover, expensive moisturizers often contain olive oil or its extracts, yet charge a premium price. By using pure olive oil, you’re cutting out the middleman and applying a product that’s just as effective, if not more so, directly to your skin.
Continued on next page
ADVERTISEMENT
