What Are the Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil in Cosmetics?
Extra virgin olive oil is the least processed of all olive oils and has many health benefits. In addition to making it a staple of their diets, Mediterranean women have been known to rub this oil on their hands and faces to keep their skin looking young and healthy. Olive oil in cosmetics, whether homemade or manufactured, can provide rich moisturizing properties. The nutritional benefits of using the oil in cooking can also benefit the skin. Does this Spark an idea?
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The Facts
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Extra virgin olive oil can be found increasingly in lotions, soaps, creams and other cosmetics. Because it is the least processed of all olive oils, extra virgin oil provides the most benefits for the skin, according to the website Natural Skincare Secrets. Olive oil can moisturize skin and help it maintain elasticity. It can help heal dry or brittle nails and cuticles. It can also help moisturize hair and keep it shiny if used in shampoo or conditioner.
Anti-aging
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According to an article in the Telegraph newspaper of Great Britain, a French woman was asked on her 121st birthday about the secret to her longevity. Olive oil was her answer. She said she not only used the oil in her cooking, but rubbed it on her skin daily. She was quoted as saying, "I have only one wrinkle and I'm sitting on it."
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At Home
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Extra virgin olive oil can be used to make many homemade cosmetics. You can add it to bath water, use it as a shaving oil, mix it with sugar or salt to make an exfoliating scrub or just rub it directly on your skin, nails and cuticles as a moisturizer. For extra-dry feet or hands, rub on extra virgin olive oil just before going to bed, then cover feet or hands with cotton socks of gloves. Remove when you wake up for much softer skin.
On the Market
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Soaps, creams, shampoos and other cosmetics are for sale that are made with extra virgin olive oil. Be sure to check the ingredients list to make sure the oil is one of the first listed to ensure that you are getting your money's worth. Look specifically for extra virgin olive oil to make sure the oil used is of the highest quality. These products can be found at online retailers and in bath and body specialty shops.
Nutrition
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The nutritional benefits of cooking with extra virgin olive oil can also yield benefits for the skin. Some studies have shown that the antioxidants contained in olive oil, such as vitamins A, C and E, can protect the skin against sun damage and the effects of aging. Olive oil will contain the most nutrients if it is not cooked. You can make a quick salad dressing by mixing it with Dijon mustard, salt, pepper and vinegar or lemon juice, or you can pour it directly on salads, pastas and vegetables.
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