Olive Oil in Skincare: New Ways that Skin Care Products Use Natural Antioxidants

Sacramento, CA (PRWEB) April 17, 2008 -- There's a reason the olive is so revered in the Mediterranean. Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, olive oil has been used as a culinary and cosmetic ingredient for centuries. Skincare-News.com's latest article, "Olive Oil," sheds new light on this ancient ingredient, using some interesting information many people don't know about the benefits olive oil offers for the skin. http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=534

What is it? Olive oil has a long history: The ancient Greeks bathed in it; athletes ritually anointed their bodies with the oil. Ancient Egyptians embalmed mummies before burial with olive oil. In ancient Rome, the oil was infused with flowers and herbs to create medicine and cosmetics. Even Cleopatra, admired for her beauty and flawless skin, used olive oil perfumes and cosmetics.

Rich in vitamin E and other antioxidants, olive oil is often used to treat and prevent cardiovascular disease and regulate cholesterol. When used topically, olive oil moisturizes and protects the skin, keeping it smooth and firm. Hydroxytyrosol, a potent antioxidant found in olives, and vitamin E help fight free radicals and prevent cell degeneration. Extra virgin olive oil contains squalene, a very emollient substance similar to sebum. Research has shown squalene improves elasticity, protects the skin from dehydration and improves vitality and tone.

Where to find it: No doubt fascinated by its versatile properties, Homer is credited as describing olive oil as "liquid gold." Clearly this sentiment exists today; we use olive oil for cooking, as a garnish and in skin care and beauty products. Olive oil is used as an ingredient in a bevy of products, including shampoos, hand lotions, soaps, cleansers, scrubs and masks.

What to expect: Because olive oil is rich in antioxidants, researchers speculate it might help counteract the effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Studies in Japan suggest that the antioxidants in olive oil help neutralize free radical damage. And while olive oil isn't a sunscreen and doesn't prevent UV rays from penetrating the skin, using it in skin care products might further protect the skin against extrinsic aging and damage from the sun. Olive oil is also a powerful moisturizer and humectant, so expect to get deep hydration.

Who should avoid it: Similar in composition to sebum, olive oil is naturally compatible with human skin, making it useful for many skin types. Skin conditions such as eczema and acne respond well to products made with olive oil because of the oil's anti-bacterial properties. Also, since it's so mild, allergic reactions are rare.

Skincare-News.com covers all skincare and beauty topics from head to toe. Check out these latest articles:

When Jewelry Causes Skin Problems

http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=511

Jewelry can cause skin problems for many different reasons, including the metals found in the jewelry, tarnishing, perspiration, product build-up and medication. Those with sensitivity or allergies to jewelry may notice a variety of symptoms, such as itchy, dry or irritated skin. Worse, people can develop a rash, blisters or sores. Reactions like these are called allergic contact dermatitis. When the jewelry comes in contact with the skin, an allergic reaction develops. Find out how to manage reactions to jewelry.

Skin Sins

http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=520

There's no argument that applying skincare products and treatment with daily devotion is key to having great skin. However, products are only as good as their canvas; it's equally important to kick those most detrimental habits to the curb. Herein, several common skin sins whose time has come to say, bye-bye.

Purify with Pumpkin

http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=527

Although pumpkin may only seem like a fall decoration or holiday dessert, this versatile fruit is a skincare treasure trove. Packed with beneficial vitamins, minerals and enzymes, pumpkin has lately been used in moisturizers, cleansers and most especially -- enzyme peels. From exfoliating to anti-aging to helping heal acne, pumpkin enzymes pull triple-duty to keep the skin healthy and vibrant.

Harmful Skin Care?

http://www.skincare-news.com/articles.php?ArtID=528

Although it's well known that reading labels and checking ingredients is a smart way to choose skin care, it's not always easy. Cosmetic ingredient names can be confusing, multi-syllabic words that few people understand and even less can pronounce. How on earth can a person know what is safe and what's not? Read on to learn the skin care particulars about two of the most controversial ingredients used in cosmetics today.

About SkinCare-News.com -- "Your Source for Intelligent Skin Care"

Skincare-News.com is the online source for consumers seeking intelligent beauty and skin care news, advice, tips and articles. Founded in 2005, SkinCare-News.com features articles, news items and frequently asked questions on skincare and beauty related issues. SkinCare-News.com is located in Sacramento, California, but receives visitors from all around the world. For more information, visit http://www.skincare-news.com.

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