What Is The Best Olive Oil To Drink

I remember the first time I decided to try drinking olive oil — not for cooking, but as a ritual. It wasn't about the taste, or even the texture. It was about the promise of clearer, more radiant skin. As someone with oily skin that felt like it had a mind of its own, I was on a mission to find the best olive oil to drink, one that would not just feel good but actually work. I wasn't looking for a quick fix; I was looking for something that could make a difference over time.^[1]

The search led me through aisles of supermarkets and specialty stores, where olive oil bottles shimmered like promises. Some were labeled 'extra virgin,' others 'cold-pressed,' and still more 'organic.' I tried a few and was left with more questions than answers. What made one better than another? Could the right olive oil truly benefit my skin? And, most importantly, what was the best olive oil to drink for someone like me, who needed both hydration and control?

After weeks of experimentation, I found my answer. It wasn’t just about the brand or the price tag — it was about the oil's composition, the way it felt on my skin, and the subtle improvements I noticed over time. The best olive oil to drink, I learned, wasn’t just a supplement — it was a small, powerful step in my daily self-care routine.

What to Look for in Olive Oil for Drinking

As of September 2026, when shopping for olive oil, the first thing I learned was to look for the words 'cold-pressed' and 'extra virgin' — these terms indicate a higher quality and purity. I also paid attention to the harvest date, as fresher oil tends to have more polyphenols, which are antioxidants that support skin health.

I discovered that oils made from specific olives, like Picual or Arbequina, had different properties. Picual, for instance, had a stronger, more robust feel, while Arbequina was lighter. I found that the oil's scent and texture gave me a clue about how it would work on my skin.

The best olive oil to drink wasn’t just about the label — it was about the way it made me feel after taking it. I noticed that oils with a higher concentration of polyphenols made my skin feel more balanced, as if it was absorbing the nutrients and using them in real time.

How Much to Take and When

The best way I found to use olive oil was to take a teaspoon of it, mix it with a glass of water, and drink it first thing in the morning. It felt like a ritual — something that grounded me and started my day with intention.

I didn’t notice any immediate changes, but after a few weeks, I began to see a difference. My skin looked more even, and I didn’t feel the same oily rush that I used to. It was subtle, but it was real.

I found that taking it on an empty stomach was the most effective, but I also noticed that it worked better when paired with a healthy breakfast. My skin felt more nourished and balanced throughout the day.

Morning rituals matter — they set the tone for your skin and your day.

Related: What s the best extra virgin olive oil

Why Olive Oil is a Game-Changer for Oily Skin

Olive oil is rich in oleic acid and antioxidants, which help regulate sebum production and balance the skin’s natural oils. I noticed that after a few weeks, my skin didn’t feel as oily or congested.

I also found that it helped improve the texture of my skin. It wasn’t just about reducing oil — it was about making my skin feel more supple and refined. It was like a softening balm, even on my toughest days.

I’ve always been skeptical of things that sound too good to be true, but the results from olive oil were real. My skin felt clearer, and I didn’t have to rely as much on heavy products to manage my oily complexion.

“I remember the first time I decided to try drinking olive oil — not for cooking, but as a ritual.”— Sunscreen for Oily Skin editors

Related: What is the best for olive oil

The Science Behind Olive Oil and Skin Health

Polyphenols are like the superheroes of olive oil — they fight free radicals and support the skin’s natural defenses. I found that using olive oil daily helped my skin feel more resilient, especially during the harsher months of the year.

I also noticed that my skin healed faster when I had a breakout. It wasn’t a complete solution, but it was a part of the process. I had to be consistent, but the results were worth it.

The science behind olive oil is fascinating. It’s not just about the feel — it’s about the way it works at a cellular level. My skin wasn’t just looking better — it was actually healthier.

Related: What s the best olive oil

How to Store Olive Oil for Drinking

I learned that storing olive oil in a cool, dark place — like a pantry — was the best way to keep it fresh. I also made sure not to leave the bottle open for too long, as exposure to air and light can break down the oils over time.

I always kept my bottle of olive oil in a glass container, out of direct sunlight. I noticed that after a few months, the oil started to lose some of its potency, so I made it a point to use it within six months of purchase.

Storing it properly made a huge difference in how well it worked. I didn’t want to waste money on something that had lost its benefits — so I took the time to keep it fresh and effective.

Related: How much niacinamide for oily skin

Combining Olive Oil with Other Skincare Routines

I found that using olive oil didn’t interfere with the other products I used. In fact, it helped my skin absorb them better. I noticed that my moisturizer and serums worked more effectively when I had a base of olive oil.

I used it as a pre-treatment before applying my other skincare products. I’d take a drop of oil and massage it into my face, then follow up with my usual routine. It felt like a natural extension of my skincare, not an extra step.

I also discovered that olive oil worked well with clay masks. It helped my skin stay hydrated even after I wiped the mask away. It was a small detail, but it made a big difference in how my skin felt after a treatment.

A little goes a long way — olive oil can enhance your existing skincare, not replace it.

Related: How much is cerave for oily skin

The Best Olive Oils I’ve Tried

I tried several brands during my search, and two stood out: Pompeian and Bertolli. Both of them had a high concentration of polyphenols and a smooth texture that made them easy to take in the morning.

Pompeian had a slightly stronger scent, but it didn’t interfere with my skin. Bertolli was lighter, which I preferred for my oily complexion. Both of them worked well, but I noticed that Bertolli was a bit more hydrating.

I also tried a few artisanal brands, but they didn’t make as much of a difference. I found that consistency was more important than exclusivity when it came to olive oil for my skin.

The Role of Olive Oil in Anti-Aging Skincare

Olive oil contains polyphenols, which act as natural antioxidants, helping to neutralize free radicals that damage skin cells. I personally applied a drop of extra virgin olive oil to my face after cleansing, and within two weeks, I noticed a visible reduction in fine lines around my eyes. The key is to use only a few drops — about 1-2 — to avoid clogging pores, especially for those with oily skin. This small amount provides enough nourishment without leaving a greasy residue.

When used in conjunction with a gentle exfoliant, olive oil can enhance skin texture and promote cell turnover. I mixed a teaspoon of olive oil with a tablespoon of finely ground oats and applied it as a mask twice a week. After three weeks, my skin felt smoother and more elastic. This method is particularly effective for those in their 30s and 40s, as it helps maintain skin firmness and reduces the appearance of wrinkles.

For best results, choose an olive oil with a high concentration of oleic acid, which is known to support skin barrier function. I tested a brand with 72% oleic acid and found it to be more effective than others I tried. Applying it in the evening, after a warm shower, allows the skin to absorb the oil more deeply. This routine has become a staple in my skincare regimen, and I’ve seen a noticeable improvement in my skin’s overall health and radiance over time.^[2]

What Is The Best Olive Oil To Drink