Few self-care regimens can compare to the relaxing embrace of a massage. Adding olive oil to the mix takes this experience to a new level. Olive oil, known for its a culinary background, also provides numerous health advantages when applied to the skin.
Olive oil, derived from the fruits of olive tree also known as Olea europaea has been revered for generations due to its exceptional characteristics. Aside from its culinary uses, this liquid gold includes a wealth of nutrients that are good to the health of our skin.
Olive oil is a rejuvenating balm that contains antioxidants, vitamins E and K, and anti-inflammatory chemicals, as well as monounsaturated fats.
This blog explores evidence-backed olive oil massage benefits with some preliminary benefits. Let us go discover its transforming effects on body and mind.
Olive Oil Massage Benefits
1. Provides Antioxidative Support to the Skin
Olive oil contains over 200 different compounds, including sterols, carotenoids, and phenolic compounds. It is also rich in oleic acid, with smaller amounts of linoleic and palmitic acids, which may support antioxidative support to the when applied topically.
The main phenolic subclasses present in olive oil are phenolic alcohols, phenolic acids, flavonoids, lignans, and secoiridoids.
The most common antioxidants in olive oil are hydrophilic phenols, which are even more effective than vitamin E at fighting oxidation.
Antioxidants are the substances that protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress and free radicals. They neutralize harmful molecules, reduce inflammation, and support overall health by preventing cell damage that can lead to chronic diseases and premature aging.
Olive oil also includes other compounds like vitamins K, D, E, beta-carotene, and ubiquinol 10, which have antioxidant properties
2. May Moisturize and Nourish the Skin
Dry, dehydrated skin cannot withstand olive oil’s moisturizing characteristics. When massaged into the skin, olive oil penetrates deeply, providing moisture to dry cells and sealing it in for long-lasting hydration.
Olive oil has emollient properties, means it has softening and soothing effect especially to the skin, which can help soften dry skin and improve skin texture.
Olive oil has antioxidative and moisturizing properties and can be used to treat people with seborrheic dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis.
There are several studies to find the ideal composition of triglycerides of vegetable oil for its effect on skin’s lipid barrier integrity. This barrier helps keep moisture in and harmful substances out. If it’s damaged, it can lead to dryness, irritation, and increased sensitivity.
The skin’s lipid barrier disruption is assumed to be connected to vegetable oils with a content of predominantly oleic acid in triglycerides, and it was suggested that the ratio of oleic acid to linoleic acid may be crucial.
In this case, olive oil showed to be beneficial for dry skin with oleic acid being predominant (>70%) over linoleic acid (10%) in olive oil.
While olive olive oil seemed to be beneficial for dry skin, there is a limitation too. Oleic acid-rich triglycerides of olive oil (76.3% oleic acid, 4.6% linoleic acid) damaged the lipid barrier integrity of skin.
Say goodbye to flakiness, rough spots, and dullness as your skin absorbs the nourishing benefits of olive oil, which may leave it soft, smooth, and beautiful.
3. Anti Ageing Properties
Olive oil is an excellent source of numerous bioactive compounds that that may have anti-ageing properties.
Olive oil is rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols and vitamin E, which have rejuvenating properties that help you age naturally.
Accumulation of damage from oxidative stress and free radicals can break down collagen, leading to early signs of aging. The antioxidants in olive oil help protect the skin from this damage by neutralizing free radicals, preventing premature aging, and keeping the skin looking youthful.
Incorporating olive oil massage into your skincare routine may help lessen the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots, resulting in a more youthful complexion.
4. Anti-inflammatory Properties
Olive oil is rich in antioxidants that provide anti-inflammatory properties, when massaged gently over inflammatory areas on the body.
The soluble part of olive oil mainly consists of phenolic compounds, including phenolic acids, phenolic alcohols, secoiridoids like oleuropein, oleocanthal and flavonoids.
A wide range of studies have shown that the phenolic compounds in olive ointment have anti-inflammatory effects.
Olive oil soothes and calms sensitive, irritated skin. Oleocanthal, a natural chemical present in olive oil, has strong anti-inflammatory properties similar to over-the-counter pain relievers.
Studies have also shown that olive oil, when applied topically, leads to angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels) by increasing the levels of intravascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and, with omega-3 fatty acids, can chronically inhibit the inflammation.
Olive oil is also composed of approximately 98–99% fatty acids, mainly triacylglycerol, oleic acid esters, palmitic acid, linoleic acid, and other fatty acids such as stearic acid.
Anti-inflammatory properties of olive oil was thought to be due to process of linoleic acid activity. In the process, oleic acid in olives can replace linoleic acid, and it is assumed that the main mechanism of action of linoleic acid is to control inflammation and support skin healing.
5. Promotes Healing of Wounds
Wounds can form when the skin, mucous membranes, or limb tissues are damaged. This can happen due to disease, accidents, or even intentional injuries.
In general, olives have antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties and, therefore, can facilitate the repair of epithelial tissue, which promotes wound healing process.
As we discussed earlier, olive oil is rich in various fatty acids which also includes oleic acid and linoleic acid. Oleic acid in olives can replace linoleic acid, and it is assumed that the main process of action of linoleic acid is to regulate inflammation and stimulate skin regeneration, which will ultimately accelerate wound healing process.
Several studies indicate that topical application of olive oil on wounds can promote faster healing of various kinds of ulcers, dermatitides like eczema.
For example, a study examined the effect of olive oil on diabetic foot ulcers in patients with type 2 diabetes and the results showed that olive oil significantly reduced the wound surface and depth and increased the general condition of the wound compared to the control group.
Whether you have eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis, a moderate massage with olive oil may reduce redness, swelling, and irritation, promoting healing and relaxation.
6. May Reduce the Risk of Skin Cancer
Extensive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation leads to increased formation of free radicals. This causes oxidative stress, which damages skin cells, changing their gene expression, which not only leads to premature aging, but also promotes (non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancers).
Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, which may neutralize the free radicals and may prevent skin cancer.
For instance, in a randomized controlled trial a mixture of olive oil, sesame oil, and honey was found to be a useful treatment for burns, by preventing infections, accelerating tissue repair, and facilitating removal of foreign materials and dead tissues.
A murine study found that application extra virgin olive oil to the skin delayed the onset and lowered the risk of skin cancer caused by UVB radiation on murines.
However, extensive research is needed to find the benefits of topical application of olive oil on the skin.
Incorporating olive oil massage into your routine 2-3 times a week may protect your skin from the damage caused by UV radiation.
7. May Improve Blood Circulation
The rhythmic motions of massage, along with the soothing properties of olive oil, improve blood circulation throughout the body. Improved circulation ensures that oxygen and nutrients reach all cells while efficiently removing metabolic waste and pollutants.
This energizing effect improves overall health and energy, leaving you feeling energized and stimulated.
8. May Provide Antimicrobial Effects
Olive oil has been shown to possess antimicrobial properties, which can help protect the skin from infections.
Olive oil has natural antimicrobial properties due to its high content of monounsaturated fats and phenolic compounds. These properties can help combat bacteria and fungi on the skin, potentially reducing the risk of infections.
This makes olive oil massages particularly beneficial for individuals with skin conditions prone to infections or those looking to maintain optimal skin health.
Olive oil’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects further support skin health, making it a useful addition to your skincare routine.
Tips for an Optimal Experience: Elevate Your Olive Oil Massage Benefits
To make the most of your olive oil massage experience, consider the following tips:
- Choose high-quality, extra virgin olive oil for maximum nutritional content. Its massage reduces chronic pain and inflammation.
- Warm the oil slightly before applying it to the skin for enhanced absorption and comfort.
- Customize your massage with gentle strokes and varying pressure to suit your comfort level and target specific areas of tension.
- Enhance the therapeutic effects by incorporating essential oils like lavender, chamomile, or peppermint.
- Set the mood with soft lighting, calming music, and a tranquil ambiance to create a spa-like atmosphere.
Can we do oil massage daily?
You can incorporate oil massage into your skincare routine 2-3 times a day, but the frequency and type of oil used may vary depending on individual preferences and skin type.
Some people may find daily oil massage beneficial for maintaining healthy skin, while others may prefer to do it less frequently, such as a few times a week. It’s essential to listen to your skin’s needs and adjust the frequency accordingly.
Additionally, using lighter oils like jojoba or almond oil may be more suitable for daily use, while heavier oils like coconut or olive oil may be better suited for occasional use or specific concerns.
Always patch test new oils and listen to your body’s response to determine the best routine for you.
Embrace the Healing Touch of Olive Oil Massage
Olive oil massage goes beyond relaxation; it is a holistic technique that benefits the body, mind, and spirit. It has numerous benefits, ranging from skin nourishment to relaxation and well-being.
Reap all the olive oil massage benefits by including it into your self-care routine, you may go on a rejuvenating and vitalizing trip, one relaxing stroke at a time. So go ahead, indulge in olive oil’s medicinal properties and witness the transformational results for yourself.
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Attributions:
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Sourced and summarized from
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- Darvin ME, Lademann J, von Hagen J, Lohan SB, Kolmar H, Meinke MC, Jung S. Carotenoids in Human SkinIn Vivo: Antioxidant and Photo-Protectant Role against External and Internal Stressors. Antioxidants (Basel). 2022 Jul 26;11(8):1451. doi: 10.3390/antiox11081451. PMID: 35892651; PMCID: PMC9394334. Used under CC BY 4.0.
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