Olive oil, from a kitchen staple to a beauty staple

It's natural and abundant, so why don't we see more of it in the products we use? We're aware of the health benefits of consuming it as part of a balanced diet, but did you know that regularly applying it to your body is another great way to reap the reward of this versatile plant?

There is nothing like using natural oils to boost your beauty or skin care regime. Use it as an alternative or as an added benefit and really see the difference without costing  you a lot more than your existing routine.
                          
Extra virgin olive oil is composed of more than 80% oleic acid. Benefits include skin moisturising properties, improving skin health and anti ageing properties (thanks antioxidants!) which can remove makeup while softening the skin around your eyes. 

In fact, all the ingredients you need for a natural make up remover can be found in your pantry and fridge! 

Pantry Make Up Remover               
Dip a couple of cotton balls in some good quality virgin olive oil and wipe areas you need to remove makeup or eye makeup. Rinse off.   
                
Pantry Face Mask                 
Mix 1/3 cup of natural yogurt with 1/4 cup of honey and add 2 teaspoons good quality virgin olive oil. Mix all ingredients, apply to your face and leave for about 20 minutes. The mask can thin out so try to remain still, relax and enjoy!           
Remove with luke warm water. Repeat once per week for a fabulous pick me up. Olive oil acts like vitamin E, honey acts as a humectant and the yogurt acts as a gentle exfoliant. Smells good and feels better.  
                
Consuming the best quality virgin olive oil you can afford means we also get a double effect of this natural antioxidant, so using it for inside & outside is beneficial. 

Like most produce authentic extra virgin olive oil is best bought locally. Heat, age and km travelled can cause degradation and compromise the integrity of the oil.   

Look for a harvest date on the bottle or container. Until it's grape based counterpart, olive oil is not like wine - it doesn't get better with age! 

Store your olive oil in a cool, dark place away from heat, air and light in a glass container if possible, and keep it safe with a tight lid! 
                                 
Nature gifts us with some wonderful oils! Let's make the most of them.