Olive Oil for Skin: Benefits, Uses, and What to Know

Olive oil has been used for centuries as a natural moisturizer and skin treatment. While it contains beneficial antioxidants and fatty acids, research shows it may not be suitable for everyone. Understanding both the benefits and limitations can help you decide if olive oil belongs in your skincare routine.

What's in Olive Oil?

Olive oil contains several compounds that affect your skin. It's composed of about 80% oleic acid, a fatty acid that provides moisture. Extra virgin olive oil also includes vitamin E, squalene, and polyphenols that act as antioxidants.

These antioxidants help protect skin from damage caused by free radicals. A 2024 study found that olive oil polyphenols reduced visible wrinkles by 34-52% in adults after 30 days of use.

Proven Skin Benefits

Research supports several benefits of olive oil for skin:

• Moisturizes dry skin by helping it retain water

• Provides antioxidant protection from environmental damage

• May reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

• Supports wound healing in some cases

The vitamin E in olive oil works alongside squalene to boost moisture retention. Squalene is also naturally found in your skin's oil, making it familiar to your body.

Important Limitations to Know

Despite its benefits, olive oil has significant drawbacks that many people overlook. The high oleic acid content that makes it moisturizing can also disrupt your skin's protective barrier.

A 2013 study found that applying olive oil twice daily for five weeks weakened skin barrier function and caused mild irritation. This happens because oleic acid creates small openings in the skin that can increase water loss rather than prevent it.

May Clog Pores

Olive oil rates as moderately comedogenic, meaning it can clog pores in some people. Research shows oleic acid may contribute to acne formation, especially in those already prone to breakouts. Studies have also found that olive oil can help acne-causing bacteria attach to skin follicles.

How to Use It Safely

If you want to try olive oil on your skin, follow these guidelines:

• Do a patch test first on a small area of skin

• Apply to damp skin right after showering for better absorption

• Use small amounts and avoid the face if you have acne-prone skin

• Choose extra virgin olive oil for the most antioxidants

Cleveland Clinic suggests it works best on dry body skin rather than facial skin. Apply when pores are open after bathing to help your skin absorb the moisture.

Who Should Avoid Olive Oil

Skip olive oil on your skin if you have:

• Acne-prone or oily skin

• Eczema or other barrier-disrupted conditions

• Rosacea

• Sensitive skin prone to irritation

Dermatologists often recommend more cosmetically elegant products that provide similar benefits without the risk of barrier disruption or breakouts.

When to See a Dermatologist

Consult a dermatologist if you experience irritation, increased breakouts, or worsening dryness after using olive oil. They can recommend products better suited to your skin type that won't compromise your skin barrier. A dermatologist can also help if you're dealing with persistent dry skin or acne that doesn't improve with over-the-counter treatments.

The Bottom Line

Olive oil offers antioxidant benefits and can moisturize very dry skin, but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. The same oleic acid that provides moisture can also weaken your skin barrier and clog pores. If you have normal to dry skin without acne concerns, you might benefit from occasional use on your body. However, many dermatologist-formulated products offer similar or better results without the drawbacks.