Olive oil has been a staple in the kitchen since time immemorial. It’s an absolute star in Mediterranean cuisine, and a hero of vascular health. Additionally, it can be used to rub marks out of stainless steel, to prevent rust on gardening tools, and to give a good shine on leather surfaces.
Unsurprisingly, there are many ways olive oil can be used in skincare and beauty, too. It’s an excellent moisturizer, shaving oil, exfoliant, and last but not least, makeup remover. Olive oil as a makeup remover may sound strange at first, but it’s the best option to traditional removers, which are full of harsh chemicals. Learn more about it here.
Does Olive Oil Remove Makeup Effectively?
The short answer is a resounding “yes,” but it does require some elaboration. Indeed, it’s a natural remover, capable of dissolving even the most stubborn waterproof particles. This procedure isn’t for just any type of skin, though. Those who have oily, acne-prone skin types should avoid it, as it could make their issues considerably worse. Nevertheless, it works like a balm for dry skin types.
Most makeup has an oily base, which is why it’s nearly impossible to remove it with water. Yet, removing them doesn’t need to involve aggressive chemicals. In fact, olive oil naturally dissolves such components, which can be easily rinsed or washed away afterwards. The process is pretty much the same as using a traditional remover, using a cotton pad, and rubbing it in a circular motion.
While olive oil may do a wonderful job in removing oil-based makeup, it may not be suitable for other types. It has little power against glitter makeup (it breaks the glue, but the particles remain), heavily pigmented, and film-forming products. Likewise, makeup for theater and special effects will require specific products.
Benefits Of Using Olive Oil As A Makeup Remover
Moreover, only extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) must be used for this purpose. Refined oils may contain undesirable chemicals for skincare as well, which means it doesn’t count as a “natural option.” Meanwhile, EVOO provides much greater nutrient density, most noticeably vitamins A, E, D, and K. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it a powerful ally of skin health.
Olive oil efficiently dissolves and removes dirt and oily chemicals, promoting a deep cleansing of the skin. It may also be the best option for those with sensitive skin, as commercial removers don’t always go gentle. EVOO is rich in lipids and vitamin E, which means it helps keep the skin moisturized, with a healthy, younger-looking appearance. In some skin types, it can balance natural sebum production.
Timing is an often-overlooked but crucial factor in the whole process. Indeed, olive oil can be used for day and night skincare routines, but the results aren’t the same. It’s a great option in the morning, during a deep skin cleansing routine, getting it ready for new makeup. It’s also efficient in the evening for removing makeup after a long day with it. In both cases, it must be completely rinsed and washed away, leaving no residues on the skin.
How To Use It Properly: Step-By-Step
Too much of a good thing can, indeed, cause great harm. Using the wrong type of oil, or using too much oil, or failing to remove it completely from one’s face can backfire badly. Here’s a step-by-step guide for optimal results.
Step 1: Testing the Product
Before applying any product to one’s entire face, specialists advise running the “patch test.” It consists of using a small amount of it on one’s inner arm for about 48 hours to see how it behaves. If it causes irritation or triggers an allergic reaction, users must stop right there. If not, they are good to move forward to the next step.
Step 2: Application
The skin must be completely dry before application for greater effectiveness, moving the cotton pad in circular patterns. Water and oil don’t mix, so the result can be quite messy otherwise. More isn’t necessarily better here. In most cases, only a few drops are enough for the whole procedure.
Step 3: Removal
Specialists advise on the use of a soft washcloth dampened in warm water. The water temperature is a vital detail here, as it helps emulsify the oil, making it much easier to remove. The process must be repeated as many times as necessary to remove all solid and oily residues from the skin.
Step 4: After Care
To ensure a complete cleanse, it’s advisable to double cleanse. The process must be finished with a water-based cleanser, according to one’s skin type, to prevent clogged pores and, consequently, acne issues.
Is Olive Oil Safe For All Skin Types?
Unfortunately, it isn’t one of those one-size-fits-all solutions, as it’s not for everyone. Typically, it works very well with dry skin types. Meanwhile, it’s considered heavy for those acne-prone skin types, which have high sebum production. It isn’t recommended for all types of sensitive skin, either.
In some cases, it can wear down the already thin skin barrier, causing irritation and redness. Additionally, it shouldn’t be used on infants with eczema. That’s why the patch test is so important and should always be the first step. More importantly, it’s advisable to look for health advice from dermatologists before deciding upon the best skincare routine, and which types of products can or cannot be used.
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