The Benefits of Organic Olive Oil in Homemade Skincare Products
The Benefits of Organic Olive Oil in Homemade Skincare Products
In recent years, organic olive oil has gained recognition as a valuable ingredient in homemade skincare formulations. With its rich composition of nutrients and beneficial properties, it serves as an excellent base for various skincare products. In this post, we will explore the benefits of using organic olive oil and provide ideas for incorporating it into salves, lip balms, and nourishing face oils. Mountain Rose Herbs opened a brick and mortar in Seattle and I picked up a bottle of their amazing organic olive oil to create a big batch of salve for gift giving. I will also use it when making a cold-weather lip balm formula.
The Benefits of Organic Olive Oil for Skin
1. Moisturizing Properties: Organic olive oil is an effective emollient, meaning it helps to soften and hydrate the skin. Its fatty acid profile, particularly oleic acid, allows it to penetrate the skin's barrier, providing lasting moisture without leaving a greasy residue.
2. Antioxidant Rich: The oil is abundant in antioxidants, such as vitamin E and polyphenols, which help to neutralize free radicals. This action can reduce oxidative stress on the skin and may contribute to a more youthful appearance by minimizing the signs of aging.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The anti-inflammatory properties of organic olive oil can soothe irritated and sensitive skin. Its high oleocanthal content has been shown to exhibit effects similar to anti-inflammatory medications, making it beneficial for conditions like eczema and psoriasis. If you add a few drops of lavender essential oil and German chamomile essential oil to your skincare formula, it can really help with cooling and reducing inflammation of skin.
4. Enhancing Skin Barrier Function: Olive oil can improve the integrity of the skin barrier, which is essential for preventing moisture loss and protecting against environmental aggressors. This property makes it suitable for various skin types, particularly dry or compromised skin. When my son was a baby and had really bad eczema, I used to rub it all over his body a few times per day.
How to Use Organic Olive Oil in DIY Skincare
1. Salves: To create a salve, combine organic olive oil with beeswax and your choice of essential oils. This mixture can be effective for treating dry patches or localized skin issues. The beeswax will provide a protective barrier, while the olive oil nourishes the skin. Adding a few drops of vitamin e oil to your salve will extend the shelf life and keep the olive oil from oxidizing.
2. Lip Balms: Formulating a lip balm with organic olive oil, shea butter, a little bit of beeswax, and a few drops of peppermint essential oil or sweet orange essential oil can yield a product that moisturizes and protects the lips. The oil's hydrating properties, combined with shea butter’s richness, make for an effective formulation.
3. Nourishing Face Oils: A simple yet effective face oil can be made by blending organic olive oil with essential oils tailored to specific skin needs, such as lavender for calming or tea tree for blemish control. This combination can provide nourishment and improve skin texture. I like to use olive oil as my carrier oil of choice when I craft beauty products for use during cold weather.
Sourcing Quality Organic Olive Oil
For those interested in using organic olive oil in their skincare formulations, Mountain Rose Herbs is an excellent source. They offer high-quality, certified organic olive oil, ensuring that you are using a product free from harmful chemicals and additives. Their commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing makes them a reliable choice for skincare ingredients. You can also find some great options at Costco and Whole Foods.
Organic olive oil is a versatile and beneficial ingredient for homemade skincare products. Its moisturizing, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties make it an ideal choice for various formulations, including salves, lip balms, and face oils. By sourcing organic olive oil from reputable suppliers like Mountain Rose Herbs, you can ensure that you are using a product that enhances the quality and effectiveness of your skincare routine.
To make a basic skin salve, start by combining 1 part grated beeswax with 2 parts organic olive oil in a double boiler, allowing the mixture to melt together over gentle heat. Stir occasionally until the beeswax is fully melted and well incorporated with the olive oil. Once melted, remove the mixture from heat and let it cool slightly before adding 10 to 15 drops of lavender essential oil, which provides soothing and protective qualities for the skin. Pour the mixture into a clean container and let it cool completely to set, creating a nourishing salve that can be used to moisturize and protect dry skin.