Eczema is a skin condition that affects many people around the world. While medical prescriptions and creams typically treat eczema, some people may be looking for a natural solution.
While research has proven that dietary and lifestyle changes can lead to better results, natural oils have been increasingly used to treat eczema.
Olive oil has often been a go-to product used when cooking meals and has been credited with providing multiple therapeutic and health benefits. Because of this, you may be wondering whether olive oil would help treat eczema. Read on to find out more.
What are the health benefits of Olive Oil on the skin?
A recent study by Badiu and Rejendram (2021) had discovered that there are many health benefits to be gained from olive oil:
- Improved health
- Reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin
Also packed with many fats and healthy vitamins, olive oil can contribute to healthier skin due to the locking in moisture and anti-ageing effects.
Is Olive oil good for eczema?
Even though Olive oil has multiple health benefits and can moisturize the outer layers of the skin, its impact is only superficial.
People with eczema have damaged skin barriers that typically become dehydrated from removing excess water. As a result, the skin barrier is damaged, leaving the skin dry, itchy, and could flare up in an inflamed rash.
For olive oil to be an effective treatment for eczema, it would need to penetrate the top layers of the skin and repair the natural skin barrier; this would require an acid balance with a high ratio of linoleic acid to acid.
Olive oil has a disproportionate ratio of oleic oil to linoleic acid; this means that olive oil can dry out the skin and does not repair the skin barrier.
Moreover, a research study in 2012 discovered that olive oil can disrupt the skin’s barrier and could promote the development of and increase eczema. As a result, the study discourages olive oil on the skin as it could exacerbate the eczema symptoms. Also, too much oil on the skin can clog up the pores and lead to acne breakouts.
Natural Oil Alternatives
- Coconut oil: contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively help relieve the skin from inflammatory symptoms. Furthermore, a research study found that coconut oil has antioxidant properties, proven effective in treating eczema and reducing oxidative stress.
- Jojoba Oil: seals in moisture and forms an effective skin barrier; this is very effective for protecting the skin from external elements. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory properties of Jojoba Oil can help relieve irritated skin.
- Sunflower Oil: Has anti-inflammatory properties to help relieve irritated skin. Moreover, sunflower oil can hydrate and protect the skin barrier.
Olive Oil Soaps
One alternative to olive oil may be to use Olive oil soaps when bathing or showering.
While there is limited research on the effects of Olive Oil Soaps, The Olive Tree states that olive oil soaps can:
- Have a moisturizing effect
- Contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Provide effective relief for those with eczema or psoriasis
- Help with acne.
Our Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil soaps are made from extra virgin olive oil with very low acidity. This is a very high-quality soap that is suitable for those with eczema, as it provides a very long-lasting moisturizing effect.
The Bottom Line
Eczema can negatively impact your life, so correctly managing and alleviating the symptoms is very important.
Despite significant advances in scientific discovery, research on the causes of eczema is still at an infant stage. As a result, more research studies are needed for a complete understanding.
While Olive Oil has multiple health and therapeutic benefits, its use as a solution for eczema treatment may not be recommended. Other natural oils, such as Jojoba and sunflower oil, may be better alternatives for relieving symptoms of eczema,
High-quality Olive Oil soaps that draw from the health benefits of olive oil and mitigate the adverse effects can be very relieving for those with eczema.