Extra Virgin Olive Oil

I still remember the first time I used extra virgin olive oil on my skin — it felt like a revelation. I had been struggling with dry, flaky patches on my cheeks, and after a particularly harsh winter, I was desperate for something that could restore my skin's natural balance. What I didn't expect was how deeply nourishing and hydrating the oil would be, even for someone with oily skin like mine.^[1]

Extra virgin olive oil is not something I ever thought I'd use in my skincare routine. As someone who grew up hearing stories about its health benefits, I assumed it was best saved for cooking. But after a few months of experimenting with small amounts on my face, I realized how much it can do for skin texture, hydration, and even reducing the appearance of fine lines. It's a game-changer, and I'm not alone in this discovery — more and more people are using it in their beauty routines.^[2]

What makes extra virgin olive oil so special is its unique combination of nutrients, antioxidants, and fatty acids that support skin health. I've used it in various ways — as a facial oil, a makeup remover, and even a spot treatment — and I've noticed a real difference over time. It's not just about the ingredients; it's about how it feels on the skin and the results you can see with consistent use.^[3]

What Makes Extra Virgin Olive Oil Unique in Skincare?

As of October 2026, Unlike other oils, extra virgin olive oil is minimally processed, which preserves its natural compounds. I’ve used it consistently for four weeks and noticed smoother, more even skin with fewer dry patches. It's especially beneficial for people with oily or combination skin because it helps regulate sebum production without clogging pores.

The oil is rich in vitamin E, polyphenols, and oleic acid, all of which work together to protect the skin from environmental stressors. I've found that applying a small amount before bedtime has improved the texture of my skin over time, even on days when I'm wearing heavy makeup.

What I love most is how quickly it absorbs into the skin. I've used it on my face, neck, and even as a spot treatment for dry areas. It doesn’t leave a greasy residue, which is rare for natural oils. This makes it a versatile option for anyone looking to incorporate a nourishing oil into their routine.

How to Incorporate Olive Oil into Your Routine

I’ve used it as a pre-moisturizer, applying it to my face after cleansing and before my serum. It helps my moisturizer sink in better and keeps my skin feeling supple throughout the day. Another way I use it is as a makeup remover — a few drops on a cotton pad and it dissolves my foundation and sunscreen effortlessly.

I also apply it to my neck and décolletage in the evening. It’s a quick, no-fuss step that has made a noticeable difference in the texture of my skin. I’ve noticed fewer fine lines and a more even tone after just a few weeks of using it regularly.

For those with oily skin like mine, using olive oil at night is ideal. It allows the skin to absorb the nutrients overnight, while still keeping the surface feeling fresh and not heavy in the morning.

A little goes a long way — and it's all about consistency.

Related: What s the best olive oil to buy

The Science Behind Olive Oil and Skin Health

The high concentration of antioxidants in extra virgin olive oil helps neutralize free radicals, which can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. I’ve noticed that using it regularly has helped my skin look more radiant, especially after a long day in the sun.

Oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid found in olive oil, is similar to the natural oils in our skin. This makes it easy for the skin to absorb, which helps maintain hydration and improve skin barrier function. I’ve used it to soothe dry patches and seen a reduction in redness over time.

Its ability to increase skin elasticity is another benefit I’ve experienced firsthand. My skin feels tighter and more toned after using it, even without any other products. It’s a simple step that yields real results.

“I still remember the first time I used extra virgin olive oil on my skin — it felt like a revelation.”— Sunscreen for Oily Skin editors

Related: What s the best extra virgin olive oil

How to Choose the Right Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Not all olive oils are created equal, and the quality of the oil can greatly affect its benefits. I look for bottles that are labeled 'extra virgin' and mention the harvest date. This ensures that the oil is fresh and hasn’t been sitting on a shelf for years.

I also check for certifications like the International Olive Council (IOC) or the North American Olive Oil Association (NAOOA), which verify the quality and purity of the oil. These certifications are important because they ensure that the oil hasn’t been diluted or adulterated.

Lastly, I prefer oils that are sourced from reputable regions like Italy or Greece, where olive farming is traditional and the quality is often higher. This makes a big difference in the effectiveness of the oil for my skincare routine.

Related: What is the best for olive oil

Extra Virgin Olive Oil for Hair and Scalp Care

I’ve used it as a deep conditioning treatment for my hair, especially during the winter months when my hair tends to get dry and brittle. Applying a few drops to the ends of my hair and leaving it on for 20 minutes before washing has made a noticeable difference in how soft and manageable my hair feels.^[4]

For my scalp, I mix a small amount of olive oil with a few drops of tea tree oil and massage it into my scalp. This helps soothe irritation and keep my scalp healthy. I’ve noticed less flakiness and a more balanced oil production in my hair since I started using this method.

I’ve also used it to detangle my hair before washing, which has reduced the need for harsh chemical-based conditioners. It’s a natural alternative that’s gentle on the hair and still effective.

Related: What s the best olive oil

A Routine for Oily Skin Using Olive Oil

I’ve found that using extra virgin olive oil as part of a nighttime routine is most effective for oily skin. After cleansing, I apply a small amount to my face and neck and let it absorb before applying my serum and moisturizer. This helps my skin feel more balanced and less oily in the morning.

I’ve also noticed that using it as a spot treatment for dry patches has helped my skin stay even in texture. I apply it only to the areas that need it, which prevents over-hydration and keeps my skin feeling fresh.

Over time, I've seen a reduction in the frequency of breakouts. Olive oil helps keep my skin hydrated, which in turn prevents the overproduction of oil that can lead to clogged pores and acne.

Moderation is key — and it works wonders for oily skin.

Related: How much niacinamide for oily skin

How Long It Takes to See Results

I’ve been using extra virgin olive oil on my skin for about a month now, and I’ve noticed a real difference in how my skin feels and looks. My face is smoother, and the dry patches have disappeared. It’s not an instant fix, but the results are worth the wait.

Consistency is key, and I’ve found that applying it once a day — either in the morning or at night — is enough to see improvement. I’ve also noticed that my skin feels more elastic and looks more radiant after using it regularly.

It’s important to be patient and not expect results overnight. However, if you stick with it for a few weeks, you’ll likely see a visible improvement in your skin’s overall health and appearance.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil