Quick answer: Olive oil can soften dry patches on the body such as elbows, heels, hands and lips, and it removes make-up well. But it is not ideal for everyone. A 2013 study found that applying olive oil twice a day for four to five weeks damaged the skin barrier in adults, so it is not recommended for eczema, very dry skin or baby massage. On the face it can block pores in acne-prone skin.
Many websites list olive oil as a miracle skin product. The research is more mixed than that, so we want to give you the honest picture, as people who make and sell olive oil.
This article is general information, not medical advice. For eczema, acne or any skin condition, ask a dermatologist.
In this guide
What olive oil can do for skin
- Soften rough, dry areas. Elbows, knees, heels and the backs of hands respond well to a small amount of oil after a bath, when the skin is still damp.
- Seal in moisture. Oil forms a thin layer on the skin that slows water loss.
- Remove make-up. Olive oil dissolves oil-based make-up and sunscreen. Wipe it off and then wash with a gentle cleanser.
- Soothe chapped lips. A drop of extra virgin olive oil works as a simple lip balm.
- Cuticle care. Rub a drop into dry nail cuticles.
What the research warns about
Olive oil and the skin barrier
The outer layer of skin, the stratum corneum, protects the body and keeps water in. In 2013, researchers in the UK asked adult volunteers to apply olive oil to one forearm twice a day. After four to five weeks, olive oil had significantly reduced the integrity of the skin barrier and caused mild redness. Sunflower seed oil, tested on the other arm, did not.
The likely reason is oleic acid. Olive oil is rich in oleic acid, which can loosen the fats in the skin barrier. That can help other substances pass through the skin, but over time it may make the skin more sensitive.
Babies and newborns
Massaging babies with oil is common in Pakistan. Based on this research, the authors advised against using olive oil for dry skin and infant massage, especially in families with eczema or allergies. If you want to massage your baby with oil, ask your paediatrician which oil to use.
Eczema (atopic dermatitis)
People with eczema already have a weaker skin barrier. Olive oil may make it worse. Use a moisturiser recommended by your doctor.
Acne-prone and oily skin
Olive oil is heavy. On oily or acne-prone faces it can block pores and lead to breakouts. If you want to try it, test a small area for a week first.
How to use olive oil on skin safely
- Patch test. Apply a few drops behind your ear or inside your elbow and wait 24 to 48 hours.
- Use very little. A few drops are enough for both hands. More oil does not mean more moisture.
- Apply to damp skin. After a bath, pat dry and apply while the skin is still slightly wet.
- Use it on dry areas, not everywhere. Heels, elbows, hands and lips are the best places.
- Do not use it as sunscreen. Olive oil has almost no sun protection.
Simple uses
- Heel softener: rub olive oil into heels at night and wear cotton socks.
- Hand treatment: mix half a teaspoon of olive oil with your usual hand cream.
- Lip scrub: a pinch of sugar with a few drops of olive oil, rub gently and wipe off.
- Make-up remover: a few drops on a cotton pad, then wash your face.
Olive oil for skin: who should and should not use it
| Skin type | Use olive oil? |
|---|---|
| Normal skin, dry body areas | Yes, in small amounts |
| Dry skin without eczema | Yes on the body, test first |
| Eczema or very sensitive skin | Not recommended, ask your doctor |
| Oily or acne-prone face | Usually not on the face |
| Newborns and babies | Ask your paediatrician first |
Which olive oil to use on skin
If you use olive oil on skin, choose extra virgin. It has no solvents and keeps its natural vitamin E and polyphenols. Skin products labelled “olive oil” are often made with refined pomace oil. A small 250 ml bottle of extra virgin olive oil lasts a long time for skin care.
Frequently asked questions
Is olive oil good for the face?
For dry, non-acne skin, a few drops can help, especially as a make-up remover. For oily or acne-prone skin it can block pores. Test it first.
Can I put olive oil on my skin overnight?
On dry heels, elbows and hands, yes. On the face, only if you have tested it and your skin is not acne-prone.
Does olive oil lighten skin or remove dark spots?
No. There is no good evidence that olive oil lightens skin or removes pigmentation.
Is olive oil good for babies’ skin?
Research suggests olive oil can weaken the skin barrier, and the researchers advised against using it for infant massage. Ask your paediatrician.
Is olive oil good for stretch marks?
Studies in pregnant women found that olive oil did not prevent stretch marks better than no treatment.