Olive Oil
Also known as: Olea Europaea Fruit Oil, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, EVOO
Description
Olive oil is a natural plant-derived emollient obtained from the fruit of Olea europaea, composed primarily of oleic acid (~55–83%), with smaller fractions of linoleic acid (~3.5–21%), palmitic acid (~7.5–20%), and stearic acid (~0.5–5%). It contains bioactive minor constituents including squalene (up to 0.7%), α-tocopherol (vitamin E), phenolic compounds (hydroxytyrosol, oleuropein, tyrosol), and phytosterols. While olive oil has long been used as a traditional emollient and is rich in antioxidant polyphenols, its high oleic acid content is a significant concern for skin barrier integrity. Oleic acid disrupts the lamellar lipid organization of the stratum corneum by creating phase separation in the intercellular lipid bilayers, increasing transepidermal water loss and potentially exacerbating barrier dysfunction. Clinical studies have demonstrated that topical olive oil application can induce mild erythema and barrier damage, particularly in individuals with pre-existing barrier impairment such as atopic dermatitis. [Viola 2009]
Mechanism of Action
Olive oil functions primarily as an occlusive and emollient, reducing transepidermal water loss by forming a hydrophobic film on the skin surface. Its polyphenolic constituents — particularly hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein — exert antioxidant effects by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inhibiting lipid peroxidation. Squalene, a major component of human sebum also found in olive oil, integrates into the skin lipid matrix and provides additional emollience. However, oleic acid (C18:1, omega-9) — the dominant fatty acid — intercalates into the stratum corneum lipid lamellae and introduces fluidity and disorder in the orthorhombic crystal lattice, creating transient pores that increase permeability. This mechanism is exploited in pharmaceutical penetration enhancement but is detrimental to barrier-compromised skin. [Lin 2018]
Indications
Available Concentrations
Side Effects
- Disruption of stratum corneum lipid barrier (due to high oleic acid content) [Lin]
- Increased transepidermal water loss with repeated application [Lin]
- Mild erythema and subclinical inflammation
- Potential exacerbation of atopic dermatitis and eczema
- Comedogenic potential (moderate, comedogenicity rating 2/5)
- Contact dermatitis (rare, usually to minor constituents)
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to olive oil or Olea europaea-derived products [Lin]
- Atopic dermatitis / eczema (may worsen barrier dysfunction)
- Neonatal skin care (clinical evidence of barrier harm in infant massage studies)
- Severely barrier-compromised skin
Pregnancy Category
Not classified (naturally occurring plant oil, generally considered safe for external use)
Found In
Cosmetics containing Olive Oil
Related Conditions
References
- Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL. "Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils." Int J Mol Sci, 2018. doi:10.3390/ijms19010070
- Viola P, Viola M. "Virgin olive oil as a fundamental nutritional component and skin protector." Clin Dermatol, 2009. doi:10.1016/j.clindermatol.2008.01.008
Limitations
This page provides a general overview of Olive Oil in dermatology. It does not cover every possible use, formulation, or interaction. Individual responses to compounds vary — what works for one person may not work for another. Always consult a qualified dermatologist before starting or changing any treatment.