Olive Oil

In the world of skin care, startling antiaging and antiwrinkling properties can be attributed to almost any plant-sourced ingredient. One of the latest is olive oil. The concept of olive oil having antiaging properties stems from some evidence that diets high in olive oil may help prevent heart disease (Sources: European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, January 2002, pages 72-81; Lipids, November 2001, Supplemental, pages S49-S52; Lipids, November 2001, pages 1195-1202). There are also a small number of animal tests showing that topically applied olive oil can protect against UVB damage (Sources: Carcinogenesis, November 2000, pages 2085-2090; Journal of Dermatological Science, March 2000, Supplemental, pages S45-S50).

It does seem that olive oil is a good antioxidant and assuredly it's a good moisturizing ingredient. But research shows similar results for other oils as well. How olive oil's status got elevated so that it's now a showcased ingredient in expensive skin-care products epitomizes the caprice of the cosmetics industry.

Paula Begoun