Can Olive Oil Treat Acne Scars?
Though there are many benefits of olive oil for skin, however, its effectiveness for acne-prone skin is still a matter of contention. While some people endorse the virtues of olive oil for acne treatment and acne scar healing, there’s very little scientific evidence to prove these effects. Most experiments involving olive oil are conducted on mice. There is no concrete evidence to prove its effectiveness in treating human skin conditions. However, besides cooking, the general population uses olive oil on a large basis as a remedy for treating various skin conditions. It is also used in a number of cosmetics. But does it actually work for acne scars? Here’s what science says.
An animal study found that oleic acid, a fatty acid that makes up to 83% of olive oil, triggered acne (1). Another study found that olive oil reduced skin integrity and caused mild erythemai A skin condition that occurs due to a mild allergic reaction to a medication or infection, causing symptoms like inflamed skin. in adults. The experiment also showed that olive oil might damage the skin barrier and promote the development of and worsen atopic dermatitisi A chronic skin condition that causes inflammation, redness, and itchiness on the skin. Also commonly known as eczema. (2). The oleic acid in olive oil can aid the breeding of acne-causing bacteria (P. acnes) on the skin. It helped the bacteria attach themselves to the follicles (3). Olive oil has a comedogenici The potential of a substance to clog pores, leading to the formation of whiteheads and blackheads on the skin. rating of 2, which means it may clog the skin pores (4).
These studies clearly indicate that olive oil cannot treat acne or acne scars. However, if you have acne-free skin and want to use olive oil to moisturize it and protect it against UV damage, here’s how you can use it.
Olive Oil For The Skin
Including olive oil for skin in your daily routine will provide deep moisturization and protection against dryness.
How To Use Olive Oil On The Skin
If you are aiming for radiant skin, using olive oil for glowing skin offers hydration that results in a luminous complexion. Understanding how to use olive oil for glowing skin is crucial, and being prepared with this knowledge can help you achieve your skincare goals. Here is how to use it:
Other Treatments For Acne Scars
Jen, a blogger, shared her experience with microneedling for her shallow acne scars. The microneedling process involved creating controlled injuries in the skin using tiny needles to stimulate collagen and elastin production, improve skin texture, and reduce scars. She summed up her results, “It was amazing. I was still a little pink, but overall, my face looked pretty damn good. Sadly, I did not take any pictures of this, and it only lasted for the first 48 hours (i).” She wrote that her esthetician suggested using chemical peels along with microneedling for better results.
The Final Word
Though anecdotal evidence suggests that olive oil has some skin benefits, research suggests otherwise. Olive oil can clog skin pores, aggravate conditions like atopic dermatitis, and cause acne in healthy skin. Hence, consult your dermatologist before using olive oil on your face. Remember to do a patch test on a small portion on your inner arm or elbow and check for a reaction within 24 hours. If you want to use olive oil on your skin for other purposes, there is no harm. However, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, olive oil can worsen the condition. If you want to get rid of acne scars permanently, consult a dermatologist for the best treatment option based on your skin type and extent of scarring. What oil is best to treat acne scars? Tea tree oil possesses antimicrobial properties that can help reduce mild acne (10). Is olive oil bad for acne? Yes, it can breed the bacteria that cause acne. Hence, it is not recommended for treating acne. Is it OK to apply olive oil to the face every day? Yes, it is safe to add olive oil to your daily skin care regimen, especially if you have dry skin. Adding this oil to your beauty routine will not only moisturize your skin but also help reduce the signs of aging and wrinkles. Does olive oil lighten dark spots? Some believe olive oil has a skin lightening effect thanks to its monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. However, research is limited in this regard. Can I leave olive oil on my face overnight? This depends on your skin type. While those with dry skin can leave the oil on their face overnight, it may not be a good idea for those with oily or acne-prone skin (as it may aggravate breakouts).
Illustration: How To Use Olive Oil For Acne Scars: Does It Actually Work?
Unlock the acne-diminishing power of olive oil. From reducing acne scars to improving skin texture, check out this video to know how to use this oil for maximum results.
