Olive Based Ingredients in Natural Skincare Products
Olives, derived from the Olea europaea tree (a hardy, long lasting tree that can thrive in hot, dry climates), are a versatile ingredient widely used in natural skincare. Olive oil, olive leaf extract, and olive-derived squalane are some of the common derivatives that bring various skin benefits due to their moisturising, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Where do olives come from?
Olive ingredients are sourced from olive trees, primarily grown in Mediterranean regions. The fruit and leaves are harvested to extract sweet smelling, lightly yellow coloured oils, squalane, and other beneficial compounds for skincare. The cultivation of olives dates back thousands of years, celebrated in ancient cultures for their nourishing and healing qualities.
Different types of Olive Ingredients in Skincare
There are different olive-derived ingredients you'll find in your natural wellbeing products, including:
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Olive Oil: This well-known natural oil is rich in fatty acids, vitamins (especially Vitamin E), and antioxidants. It’s commonly used in creams, serums, and cleansers to moisturise and protect the skin.
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Olive Leaf Extract: Packed with polyphenols and flavonoids, this extract helps to soothe inflammation and fight free radicals, promoting healthier skin.
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Squalane (Olive-derived): A highly stable, lightweight oil, squalane mimics the skin's natural oils, making it an ideal moisturiser and plumper. Olive-derived squalane is a popular choice for hydrating and balancing the skin without greasiness.
How sustainable are olive-derived ingredients in skincare?
Olive ingredients score high in sustainability when you ensure they are sourced responsibly. Olives are renewable, and many olive farms practice sustainable farming methods, which include organic practices and minimal water usage. Squalane sourced from olives is often considered more sustainable and ethical than its counterpart derived from shark liver oil.
What will olive do for your skin?
- Hydration: Olive oil and squalane are excellent at locking in moisture, improving skin elasticity and softness. Olive oil is a triglyceride which is an emollient that helps replenish the skin and prevent moisture loss.
- Antioxidant Protection: Olive leaf extract and olive oil contain antioxidants, such as polyphenols and Vitamin E, that help neutralize free radicals, reducing signs of aging.
- Anti-inflammatory: Olive leaf extract has soothing properties that can calm irritated or inflamed skin.
- Smoothing: Phytosterols (plant based cholesterols) are present in olive oil that can help to prevent the slow down of collagen production and encourage a smooth texture.
Skin types olive derived ingredients are suitable for?
Because squalanes are also present in our own skin (our sebum contains around 25%) they are generally readily absorbed into the skin and works to restore balance and good functioning of your lipid barrier. Therefore, olive-derived ingredients are suited to lots of different skin types:
- Dry and Dehydrated Skin: Olive oil and squalane offer deep hydration, making them ideal for those with dry or flaky skin.
- Sensitive Skin: Olive leaf extract is gentle and anti-inflammatory, suitable for skin that is easily irritated.
- Normal to Combination Skin: Squalane is lightweight and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for those with balanced or slightly oily skin.
Avoid if…
- Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: While olive oil is nourishing, its rich texture and moderate comedogenic rating may be too heavy for those with oily or acne-prone skin and could clog pores.
What type of skincare products will you find olive derived ingredients in?
Plenty! Olive ingredients are found in a wide range of skincare products, including moisturisers, balancing cleansers, squalane-based serums and anti-oxidant rich sun creams. It's also a nourishing haircare ingredient so expect to find it in nourishing hair products like hair oils, conditioners, detanglers and hydrating shampoos.
What is the INCI Name?
- Olive Oil: Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil
- Olive Leaf Extract: Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract
- Olive-derived Squalane: Squalane
And there you have it, a short and sweet guide on how olives and its derivatives serve can be used as a nourishing and sustainable ingredient in natural skincare products. Whether you’re looking for hydration, anti-aging benefits, or skin-soothing properties, olive ingredients could be the perfect addition to your routine.