Top Beauty Uses of Olive Oil

Originally published on August 21, 2017 | Last updated on July 25, 2025

Although most people only think of olive oil as a kitchen staple, it actually works great as a natural beauty remedy. Adding extra-virgin olive oil to your beauty routine can provide tons of benefits to your skin, hair, and nails – no wonder some call it ‘liquid gold!’ Here are 5 of the top beauty uses of olive oil (plus some of the amazing benefits!).

What is Olive Oil?

Olive oil is a liquid fat obtained from pressed olives, the fruits of the olive tree. It has been used since ancient times for a variety of purposes, including beauty and skincare. Did you know that Cleopatra was a big fan of olive oil? It is thought that she used it as her daily moisturiser to get glowing skin.

There are some great benefits to using olive oil in your beauty routine:

– Olive Oil has anti-ageing properties – Olive oil contains a high amount of antioxidants including Vitamins A and E, which help protect the skin from damage by fighting free radicals. Due to how moisturising it is, olive can also help to reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
– Olive Oil is highly moisturising – Olive oil is naturally high in squalene, which has a composition that is very close to our skin’s natural sebum. It leaves your skin feeling smooth, soft and nourished.
– Olive oil is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory – Olive oil has the ability to fight off bacteria and help keep damaged skin free of infection. Moreover, some of the compounds contained in olive oil help reduce inflammation. Skin conditions including acne and dermatitis are caused by inflammation. Using olive oil can help calm the skin and maintain a clear complexion.

It’s important to choose an olive oil that is pure to receive the benefits. I recommend using extra virgin olive oil. 

Top Beauty Uses of Olive Oil

5 of the best ways to use olive oil:

1. Hair Treatment

Olive oil works amazingly well as a deep conditioner. As the oil is hydrating and full of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, it leaves your hair shiny, healthy and strong. Warming the oil to a lukewarm temperature before you apply it makes all the difference. This is because it will penetrate the hair shaft a lot easier. Gently massage the oil into your hair from the roots to the ends and leave it in for 10-30 minutes. Then, rinse it out and shampoo as usual. Alternatively, you can add a few drops of olive oil to your favourite conditioner for an extra moisture boost.

2. Body Lotion

Due to its moisturising properties, olive oil makes a great body lotion. You can use it straight out of the bottle or add a few drops to your usual body lotion before applying. Your skin will feel incredibly smooth, soft and supple after you’ve finished massaging it into the skin. Olive oil will also help protect your skin from sun damage and environmental aggressors due to the vitamins it contains.

3. Makeup Remover

Add a few drops of olive oil to a cotton pad, and voila – you have an effective makeup remover! The reason why it works so well is because of the fact that olive oil grabs onto other oil-based products, making it easier to remove your makeup. Afterwards, rinse your face with warm water and carry out your usual skincare routine.

4. Nail Strengthener

If you have dry nails and cuticles, olive oil is your best friend. This is because of the vitamin E olive oil contains, which is highly moisturising and fast-absorbing. All you have to do is add a few drops of the oil to the nail and cuticle area. After doing this for a while, you’ll notice that your nails are longer and stronger and your cuticles are softer.

5. Eye Cream

Gently dab a little olive oil under your eyes before you go to bed to use it as a natural eye cream. The eye area is delicate, so it’s essential to apply it very gently and avoid tugging at the skin. You’ll notice that olive oil leaves your skin feeling nourished, moisturised and taken care of. The oil can even help soften wrinkles and fine lines under the eyes too.

So, those are my five top beauty uses of olive oil! Have you tried adding it to your beauty routine?

Love, Telina

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