In the dead of winter, it’s not just the landscape that’s looking dull. Many people struggle with dry, flaky skin at this time of year. Itchy, cracked, dry hands, lips, and faces abound.
Winter skin is real, but you don’t have to deal with it.
One solution has been around for thousands of years, and it still works. What is it?
It’s the olive.
Olives have been used throughout history for cooking, cleaning, healing, lighting, health, and beauty.
Known by its botanical name, Olea europaea, the olive was cultivated and used by the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans. The earliest production of olive oil is thought to have started before 4000 BC.
The Olive fruit, which is pressed to make olive oil, is prized for its emollient, moisturizing properties. (Emollients are what make your skin soft and smooth.)
Olives Are Rich
Olive oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamins. It contains vitamins A, D, K, and E, as well as squalane.
Used in skincare products, the antioxidant properties of olive oil protect skin cells from environmental damage and inflammation. This is a real boon for skin suffering from the dyness, itching, and flaking that comes with harsh winter weather.
All of those vitamins decrease the effects of oxidative stress on your skin. Oxidative stress is an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in your body, and one of the causes of accelerated skin aging… So, say good by to wrinkles!
Olive oil’s main benefit to your skin is that it’s a great moisturizer. Olive oil hydrates and forms a protective barrier on your skin, thanks in part to the squalane it contains. This is a blessing to winter skin, and to anyone struggling with itchy, dryness caused by psoriasis or eczema.
It’s the Squalane…
Squalane (with an “a“) is a plant-based version of squalene (with an “e”), which is naturally produced by your body. More specifically, Squalene is a lipid, or fat, made naturally by the sebaceous glands in your skin. It hydrates and maintains the barrier of your skin.
After the age of 30, the amount of squalene your body produces decreases. This is why you have drier skin as you age. The squalane in olive oil acts like the squalene produced by your body. It can benefit all skin types (including sensitive skin).
Because it works to naturally seal in moisture, squalane helps with problems where the skin barrier is disrupted and water loss is an issue. This includes conditions like eczema, acne, and psoriasis, and things like dry air and cold winds which are abundant in the winter months and at higher elevations.
Olive oil is like a superfood for your skin. It:
- Prevents premature aging
- Moisturizes and softens
- Reduces inflammation and scarring
- Softens fine lines and wrinkles
- Reduces oxidative stress
- Protects from environmental damage
That stands the test of time.
Where You Can Find It
We use olive oil in our Remarkably Clean Purifying Facial Cleanser and ReNew Exfoliating Face Mask and Scrub.
Like What You Just Read?
In case you were wondering, the following products were mentioned in this blog post!
Remarkably Clean Purifying Facial Cleanser
ReNew Exfoliating Face Mask Polishing Scrub
Brilliant Eyes Daily Eye Cream
A few thoughts on itchy skin…
It’s not just winter wreaking havoc on skin. For people struggling with psoriasis and eczema, every day can include dealing with itchy, dry, irritated skin. In this video, Marcelle shares her journey to healthier skin with LuxeOrganix.
