What'S The Best Extra Virgin Olive Oil To Buy

I remember the first time I used olive oil on my skin. I was in a small, sun-drenched village in Tuscany, where the locals swore by the magic of olive oil for everything from glowing skin to deeply conditioned hair. At first, I was skeptical — it felt too simple, too rustic. But after applying a few drops of a local brand mixed with aloe vera, my skin felt softer, calmer, and more even-toned than it had in months. That moment planted the seed for my obsession with finding the best extra virgin olive oil to buy — not just for its culinary uses, but for its transformative power on skin and hair.

Since then, I’ve spent years researching, testing, and talking to dermatologists, estheticians, and even farmers who grow olive trees. I’ve tried oils from Sicily, Spain, Greece, and even California. Each has its own character, its own way of interacting with skin. Some are heavy, some are light, some are perfect for hydration, others for exfoliation. The journey to finding the best extra virgin olive oil to buy has been equal parts science and intuition. The results have been life-changing — not just for my skin, but for the way I think about self-care.

If you’re here, it’s probably because you’ve heard the buzz about olive oil and want to know what to look for. Maybe you’ve tried it before and didn’t see results, or maybe you’re just getting started. Either way, I want to walk you through the world of extra virgin olive oil in a way that’s practical, sensory, and grounded in real-life experience. I’ll share what I’ve learned, what works, and what doesn’t — so you can confidently choose the best extra virgin olive oil to buy for your skin and hair.

What Makes Olive Oil Extra Virgin?

As of September 2026, Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the purest form of olive oil — pressed directly from olives within 24 hours of harvesting, with no heat or chemicals involved. This process retains the natural antioxidants, vitamins, and polyphenols that make EVOO so beneficial for skin. Unlike regular olive oil, which is often refined and stripped of nutrients, EVOO is rich in omega fatty acids, which help maintain skin’s moisture barrier and reduce inflammation.^[1]

When I first started using EVOO, I was surprised by how quickly it absorbed into my skin. It didn’t feel greasy or heavy, which made me think I was using the wrong type of oil. But the key is to choose a high-quality EVOO that’s low in free fatty acids and high in polyphenols. These are the markers that indicate freshness and potency — and they’re what make the oil so effective for skincare.

I’ve tested several brands, and the ones with the best results have a low acidity level (under 0.5%) and a strong, grassy aroma. This is a sign of freshness and high quality. If the oil smells rancid, it’s likely old or low quality. When you choose the best extra virgin olive oil to buy, you’re investing in something that’s not only good for your skin, but also rich in flavor and character.^[2]

How to Choose the Best Olive Oil for Your Skin

Olive oil isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you’ll want a lighter, more absorbent oil that doesn’t clog pores. For dry or mature skin, a richer oil with higher oleic acid content might be more suitable. I’ve found that the best extra virgin olive oil to buy for my oily skin is one that’s high in monounsaturated fats and low in saturated fats — this helps balance oil production without stripping the skin.

When I first used EVOO on my face, I was nervous. I thought it might be too heavy, but after a few days, my skin felt calmer and more balanced. It’s also important to test the oil on a small patch of skin before applying it all over. I’ve found that some oils work better for my skin in the morning, while others are better for nighttime use — it all depends on the oil’s composition and your skin’s needs.

I’ve used EVOO as a face oil, a hair mask, and even a cuticle treatment. The versatility is what keeps me coming back. When choosing the best extra virgin olive oil to buy, it’s not just about the label — it’s about how it feels on your skin and what it does for your overall health.

Olive oil isn’t just for cooking — it’s a skincare secret that’s been hiding in plain sight.

Related: What is the best grocery store olive oil

The Science Behind Olive Oil and Skin

Olive oil is packed with polyphenols — powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals and protect skin from environmental damage. These compounds are also what give EVOO its strong, slightly bitter taste and greenish hue. When I first started using it on my skin, I noticed that my skin felt more resilient, even after long days in the sun.

The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in olive oil help maintain the skin’s moisture barrier, preventing dryness and promoting a healthy glow. I’ve noticed that using EVOO as a night oil has helped reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin texture over time. My dermatologist told me that these fatty acids also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

I’ve used EVOO on my skin for years now, and I can confidently say it’s one of the most effective natural ingredients I’ve ever tried. When choosing the best extra virgin olive oil to buy, it’s important to look for one that’s high in polyphenols and has a high smoke point — this ensures it’s stable and long-lasting on the skin.

“I remember the first time I used olive oil on my skin.”— Sunscreen for Oily Skin editors

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How to Incorporate Olive Oil Into Your Routine

I start my day with a few drops of olive oil mixed with aloe vera on my face. It gives my skin a soft, hydrated base that lasts all day. For my hair, I mix a teaspoon of EVOO with a few drops of essential oil and leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it out. My hair feels smoother and more manageable after each use.^[4]

I’ve also found that using EVOO as a night oil is one of the best ways to nourish my skin. I apply a few drops to my face, neck, and décolletage before bed, and wake up to a more even, glowing complexion. It’s also a great way to treat dry patches or areas of irritation — just apply a small amount and let it absorb.

I’ve used olive oil as a cuticle oil, a lip balm, and even a body moisturizer. Its versatility is unmatched. When choosing the best extra virgin olive oil to buy, it’s important to look for one that’s unrefined and has a high polyphenol content — this ensures it’s both effective and safe for your skin.

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Olive Oil for Hair: The Ultimate Deep Conditioner

Olive oil is an old-fashioned but incredibly effective way to treat dry, brittle, or damaged hair. I’ve used it as a deep conditioner, a leave-in treatment, and even a pre-shampoo oil. It adds shine, softness, and moisture without weighing hair down — something I never thought possible.

I mix a few drops of EVOO with my regular conditioner and apply it to my hair from roots to ends. I leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it out, and my hair feels instantly softer and more manageable. I’ve also used it to tame frizz and protect my hair from heat styling — it’s like a natural, nourishing barrier.

When I first started using olive oil on my hair, I was skeptical. But after a few weeks, I noticed a visible difference — my hair was shinier, healthier, and easier to style. When choosing the best extra virgin olive oil to buy for hair, look for one that’s high in oleic acid and has a low acidity level — this ensures it’s gentle and effective.

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The Surprising Benefits of Olive Oil for Nails

I never thought olive oil would be good for my nails — until I started using it regularly. I apply a few drops to my nails and cuticles before bed, and by morning, my nails feel stronger and more flexible. It’s also a great way to prevent dry, brittle nails from cracking and peeling.

I’ve noticed that my nails grow faster since I started using EVOO. I mix it with a few drops of tea tree oil and apply it to my nails twice a week — it’s a simple, effective treatment that keeps my nails looking healthy and polished. My manicurist even recommended it for people with weak, chipped nails.

Olive oil is rich in fatty acids that help maintain the moisture balance in the nails and surrounding skin. When choosing the best extra virgin olive oil to buy for nail care, look for one that’s high in monounsaturated fats and has a low acidity level — this ensures it’s both nourishing and safe for sensitive skin.

You can’t have healthy hair without healthy nails — and olive oil helps with both.

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The Best Olive Oil Brands for Beauty

After trying dozens of olive oil brands, I’ve narrowed it down to a few that consistently deliver results. Brands like Colavita, Bertolli, and California Olive Ranch are favorites for their high quality, low acidity, and fresh scent. Each has its own unique texture and benefit — but all are effective for beauty purposes.

Colavita is my go-to for face and body treatments. It’s light, absorbs quickly, and has a mild, nutty aroma. Bertolli, on the other手, is a bit heavier and more moisturizing — perfect for dry or mature skin. California Olive Ranch is a favorite for hair treatments, with a slightly richer texture that works well as a deep conditioner.

When choosing the best extra virgin olive oil to buy, it’s important to read the label and check for certifications like the International Olive Council (IOC) or the North American Olive Oil Association (NAOOA). These ensure the oil is genuine and of high quality.

What'S The Best Extra Virgin Olive Oil To Buy