Essential Oils & Aromatherapy · Carrier oil
Olive Oil as a Carrier
Olea europaea L. (fruit oil) · also called Olive oil, extra virgin olive oil, aceite de oliva. Not the same as olive leaf extract.
Olive oil is the oil pressed from olives. It is used in cooking, on skin, in massage and as a base to dilute essential oils. For skin the research is small and mixed: one trial found it weakened the skin barrier in adults, and reviews and a children's skin guideline advise caution for babies and eczema. It looks most useful in nursing care to prevent pressure sores. Patch test first, and ask a doctor before using it on a baby or on eczema.
General information, not medical advice. Last substantive update · Not medically reviewed. A named clinician has not signed off on this page. How this page is made
About Olive Oil as a Carrier
Olive oil is a fat pressed from olives, made up mostly of oleic acid. People use it for cooking, as a skin and massage oil, and as a carrier to dilute essential oils. The research on skin is small and mixed. Its strongest use is in nursing care to help prevent pressure sores. For babies and eczema, studies and guidelines advise caution.
What it is
Olive oil is the oil pressed from the fruit of Olea europaea L., the olive tree (GBIF accepts this name; family Oleaceae). It is mostly oleic acid, an omega-9 fat, with smaller amounts of linoleic acid and plant phenols such as hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol.
Labels such as extra virgin, refined and 'light' describe how the oil was made. No source we read compared these grades on skin.
How it is used
A review of cosmetic oils describes olive oil as well known for cosmetic and culinary uses. It appears in massage oils, skin products and as a base oil for aromatherapy. Many products sold as 'olive' skin oils are blends, so read the ingredient list for Olea europaea fruit oil.
This page does not advise eating or swallowing any oil blend for health, and gives no amounts.
What the research shows
The best-supported skin use is preventing pressure injuries in nursing homes and hospitals, alongside routine nursing care. In 571 nursing-home residents, olive oil was not clearly worse than a hyperoxygenated fatty acid product, but there was no untreated group. A small hospital trial reported a bigger drop with olive oil, but its design is weak.
For stretch marks, one Turkish trial found benefit and three Iranian trials found none. For ear wax, a Cochrane review found no proof that any drop beats water. Everything else on skin is untested or small.
Babies and eczema
In a pilot trial of 115 healthy newborns, both olive oil and sunflower oil improved hydration but gave less improvement in skin lipid structure than no oil. The trial was not powered to show clinical effects. A 2022 review of 14 trials in newborns found only one that used olive oil.
A Cochrane review of skin care with moisturisers in the first year found it probably did not change eczema risk, and may raise the risk of food allergy (low certainty, one trial). This covers moisturisers in general, not olive oil alone. Ask a doctor or nurse before using any oil on a baby.
Olive oil in the ear
Advice disagrees. The NHS lists olive or almond oil drops as a self-care option for ear wax but says not to use drops if you have a hole in the eardrum, and to see a nurse if symptoms have not cleared after 5 days. A 2018 review for family doctors says olive oil drops or sprays should be avoided.
In 11 chinchillas with a perforated eardrum, olive oil caused no hearing change at 30 days, but that is a small animal study. If you have ear pain, discharge or hearing loss, see a doctor rather than trying oil.
Quality, fraud and rancidity
Reviews say olive oil is one of the foods most often adulterated for money reasons, with cheaper oils mixed in or oils mislabelled. They give no rates, and they do not cover cosmetic oils.
Olive oil also breaks down as it ages. In a lab study of eight varieties, signs of breakdown rose significantly after seven months of storage. If your oil smells different from when you bought it, throw it away. Whether aged oil is worse on skin has not been tested.
Eating olive oil is a different question
Large studies of what people eat link more olive oil to lower heart disease, type 2 diabetes and early death, but not to cancer. These are links in observational studies, rated mostly low to moderate quality by one umbrella review. They do not tell us anything about using the oil on skin, and this page gives no eating advice.
At a glance
Traditional uses history, not proof
- Papers describe olive oil as well known for cosmetic and culinary uses, and say natural oils are used around the world in newborn skin care and massage. These are statements in papers, not tests of benefit.
Studied for research
- Skin barrier in adults, mixed
- Baby skin care and massage, against (reviews and a guideline advise caution)
- Eczema and very dry skin, insufficient (caution from reviews)
- Preventing pressure injuries in care settings, low
- Stretch marks in pregnancy, mixed (one positive trial, three null)
- Perineal massage in labour (a blend), insufficient
- Massage of preterm babies and weight gain, very-low
- Softening ear wax, insufficient (advice disagrees)
- Eating olive oil for heart health, low (observational, kept separate)
Main compounds
- Oleic acid (omega-9), the main fat
- Linoleic acid (omega-6)
- Hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol, plant phenols that fade as oil ages
Common forms
- Extra virgin (cold-pressed) olive oil
- Refined or 'light' olive oil
- Massage oils and creams that contain it
- Carrier base for diluted essential oils
Research links: Olive and sunflower oil on the adult skin barrier (abstract) · Extra virgin olive oil and petrolatum on skin barrier function (abstract) · Olive oil for pressure ulcer prevention in nursing homes (abstract) · Skin care for healthy babies at term: systematic review (abstract) · NHS: earwax build-up · Poison Control: essential oils, poisonous when misused · Research Library · Genes & Biomarkers Library
What it is and its history
- Accepted scientific name
- Olea europaea
- Naming authority
- L.
- Common names
- Olive oil (English); Extra virgin olive oil (English); Aceite de oliva (Spanish)
- Family or group
- Oleaceae (the olive family)
- Classification
- Plantae > Tracheophyta > Magnoliopsida > Lamiales > Oleaceae > Olea > Olea europaea
- Native range
- Not checked in the sources read.
- Habitat
- Not checked.
- What it looks like
- Roots: Not checked.; Stems: Not checked.; Leaves: Not checked.; Flowers: Not checked.; Fruit: Olive oil is pressed from the fruit (the olive); the sources read do not describe the fruit further.
- Cultivation
- Not described in the sources read, except that oil quality varies by olive variety (a storage study compared eight Tuscan varieties).
- Harvest and processing
- Reviews of cosmetic oils say extraction methods affect yield and quality, and that mechanical pressing is simple but less efficient than newer methods. Grades such as extra virgin and refined were not compared on skin in any source read.
- Look-alikes and adulterants
- Name: Olive leaf and olive leaf extract; Note: A different part of the same tree with its own research and safety notes; see the olive leaf page.; Name: Blends sold as 'olive' skin oil; Note: Some products are mixtures with other oils or fragrance. Look for the Latin name, Olea europaea fruit oil.; Name: Other oleic-acid-rich carrier oils; Note: Sweet almond oil and avocado oil are also oleic-rich; no trial in the sources read compares them with olive oil.
- Sustainability and conservation
- Not checked.
Traditional use and history history, not clinical proof
| Tradition or era | Documented use | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Culinary and cosmetic use, as stated in papers | A 2024 review calls olive oil well known for its cosmetic and culinary applications. An editorial calls it the most consumed edible fat in the Mediterranean basin. The papers read do not give dates or traditional skin uses. | p39524627 |
| Massage and baby care, as described in papers | Papers say natural oils are used throughout the world in newborn skin care and massage; the 2013 trial abstract says natural oils are advocated and used throughout the world in neonatal skin care. No dated history was found in the sources read. | p22995032 |
Traditional use shows how it was used. It does not show that it works or is safe today.
What is inside, and how it may work
What it contains and how those compounds act in cells and animals. Laboratory and animal mechanisms are not proven effects in people.
Main compounds
| Compound | Family | Where it is concentrated | Activity studied | Level of evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oleic acid PubChem 445639 | omega-9 monounsaturated fatty acid | Fruit oil Olive oil is widely described as rich in oleic acid; a percentage was not read. | Main fat of olive oil. Reviewers suggest oleic-rich oils may add barrier damage on inflamed skin. 2 24 | Chemistry |
| Linoleic acid PubChem 5280450 | omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid | Fruit oil A percentage was not read. | The review of clinical studies links oils low in linoleic acid and high in oleic acid with the barrier-damage concern. 24 2 | Chemistry |
| Hydroxytyrosol PubChem 82755 | phenolic compound | Fruit oil (extra virgin and virgin) Higher in oils that resisted oxidation during storage in the storage study; amounts were not read. | A storage study links higher hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol with better resistance to oxidation. 31 | Chemistry |
| Tyrosol PubChem 10393 | phenolic compound | Fruit oil Amounts were not read. | As above. 31 | Chemistry |
Mechanisms, receptors and pathways
| Target or pathway | Gene or receptor | What was found | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin barrier (outer layer integrity) | Stratum corneum lipids and cohesion | In adults, 4 weeks of olive oil on the forearm reduced stratum corneum integrity and caused mild redness. Authors suggest oleic acid may cause structural damage in inflamed skin. The 2025 trial found improved hydration and more early-stage skin cells with extra virgin olive oil. The mechanism is not settled. 7 24 25 | Human data |
| Oil oxidation | Free fatty acids and peroxides | Stored olive oil shows rising free fatty acids and peroxide values, signs of breakdown. Whether aged oil acts differently on skin was not tested. 31 | Chemistry |
Absorption, metabolism and elimination
- Absorption
- Not described for skin use in the sources read. The authors of the preterm massage trial state that recent studies suggest fats are absorbed through the skin, but the trial did not measure this.
- Distribution
- Not described.
- Metabolism
- Not described.
- Elimination
- Not described.
- Bioavailability
- Not described.
Isolated compounds versus whole extracts
Olive oil on skin, olive oil eaten as food, olive leaf extract and pure oleic acid are different things. Results for one cannot be carried to another. Extra virgin, refined and 'light' oils were not compared on skin in any source read.
Nutritional composition
Large cohort studies link eating more olive oil with lower rates of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and death, but not with cancer risk. These are observational links about food, with evidence rated mostly low to moderate. They say nothing about skin use or carrier use.
2 mixed findings2 low certainty1 very low certainty4 not enough evidence1 evidence against
What was looked at
The 10 benefits and uses checked for Olive Oil as a Carrier, each with how strong the evidence is. Tap one to open it.
- Skin barrier and moisture in adultsMixed findings
- Baby skin care, massage and eczema preventionEvidence against
- Eczema and very dry skinNot enough evidence
- Preventing pressure injuries (bed sores) in hospital and nursing homesLow certainty
- Stretch marks in pregnancyMixed findings
- Massage to protect the birth canal opening in labourNot enough evidence
- Massage with olive oil in preterm babies and weight gainVery low certainty
- Softening ear waxNot enough evidence
- Skin irritation from radiotherapyNot enough evidence
- Eating olive oil (heart health and death rates) - a different useLow certainty
Lab markers tracked in the studies
Water loss through the skin (TEWL)Water content of the outer skin layerPressure injury rateShare of pregnant women with stretch marksDaily weight gain in preterm babiesRisk of death from any cause (olive oil eaten as food)
What is Olive Oil as a Carrier good for?
What the research shows for each use, and how strong it is. The skin evidence is small and mixed, and the cautions matter as much as the benefits. Read the Safety tab first if the oil is for a baby or for eczema.
Benefits, one by one
Each card is a research question, not a promise. Tap a goal to filter. Open a card to see the studies, doses and limits.
Skin barrier and moisture in adults
Mixed findingsTwo forearm trials in adults disagree. A 2013 trial found that weeks of olive oil weakened the outer skin layer and caused mild redness. A 2025 trial found that extra virgin olive oil improved skin moisture and redness in healthy adults, though petrolatum did better on water loss.
3 studiesOlive oil applied to the forearm; the 2025 trial used extra virgin ol…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Two small randomised forearm trials in adults, with opposite findings on barrier strength.
Results
Olive oil for 4 weeks significantly reduced stratum corneum integrity and caused mild redness (19 adults, with and without a history of atopic dermatitis). In 54 healthy adults, extra virgin olive oil and petrolatum both raised hydration and lowered redness and skin temperature; only petrolatum also lowered water loss.
Effect sizes as reported
No effect sizes in the abstracts.
Why this rating
Two trials with opposite findings on barrier integrity; short; different olive oils, durations and measures.
Form and dose studied
Olive oil applied to the forearm; the 2025 trial used extra virgin olive oil and the 2013 abstract does not name the grade.
Who was studied
Healthy adult volunteers, some with a history of atopic dermatitis.
Limits
Both are small and short. Neither tests eczema flares or long-term use. The 2013 trial tested adults, so it cannot show what happens in babies.
Why researchers looked
Olive oil is a common home moisturiser, and the skin barrier is the main thing a skin oil should not harm.
Traditional use
Olive oil has a long tradition as a skin and massage oil; the papers read do not date or describe it.
Proposed mechanism Human biomarker
Unsettled. Authors of the review of clinical studies suggest oleic acid, the main fat in olive oil, may upset the outer skin layer when skin is inflamed. The 2025 trial reports more early-stage skin cells with olive oil, which the authors read as faster skin renewal.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
May weaken the skin barrier with repeated use; see the Safety tab.
Baby skin care, massage and eczema prevention
Evidence againstStudies and guidelines point away from using olive oil on babies' skin. A pilot trial in newborns found less improvement in skin lipid structure with olive oil than with no oil. Reviews say it may harm the skin barrier, and an Indian paediatric guideline prefers other oils.
5 studiesOil massage on baby skin.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
One small pilot trial in newborns, one trial in adults, two systematic reviews and a guideline.
Results
In 115 healthy full-term newborns, olive oil or sunflower oil twice daily for 4 weeks gave better hydration but significantly less improvement in skin lipid structure than no oil; there were no differences in water loss, pH or redness. A 2018 review found olive or sunflower oil for baby dry skin may adversely affect skin barrier function. A 2022 review of 14 trials found only one that used olive oil. An Indian Academy of Pediatrics guideline prefers sunflower, coconut or mineral oil over olive oil for massage.
Effect sizes as reported
No effect sizes in the abstracts for olive oil alone.
Why this rating
Reviewers and a guideline advise caution; the studies are small and measure skin properties, not eczema. 'Against' means the evidence points away from use, not that harm in babies is proven.
Form and dose studied
Oil massage on baby skin.
Who was studied
Newborns and young infants.
Limits
The pilot trial was not powered for clinical outcomes. No trial found tested whether olive oil causes eczema in babies.
Why researchers looked
Oil massage is a traditional baby care practice in many places, and olive oil is a common choice.
Traditional use
Oil massage is described as widespread in newborn care in the papers read.
Proposed mechanism Human biomarker
Suggested only: reviewers link oleic-acid-rich oils with extra barrier damage on inflamed or immature skin.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Do not use on babies without asking a doctor or nurse; babies' skin and eczema risk are the main concern.
Eczema and very dry skin
Not enough evidenceNo trial of olive oil as a treatment for eczema was found. The concern runs the other way: a review of clinical studies says oils high in oleic acid, like olive oil, may add damage to inflamed skin.
3 studiesOlive oil on eczema-prone skin.
Studies, doses and limits
Results
A review of 27 clinical studies of 17 plant oils concluded that in inflamed skin, oils high in oleic acid and low in linoleic acid may cause extra damage to the outer skin layer, while non-affected skin may not react negatively. A 2025 review of basic emollients for dry skin in atopic dermatitis lists olive oil only among the ingredients searched and reports no olive-oil-specific result.
Why this rating
No olive-oil-specific trial in eczema was found. Reviews give a caution, not a measured harm in eczema.
Form and dose studied
Olive oil on eczema-prone skin.
Who was studied
People with atopic dermatitis or other inflamed skin.
Limits
The oil-by-oil results of the 27-study review are not in the abstract. The 2025 emollient review has a company funder.
Why researchers looked
People with dry or itchy skin often reach for kitchen oils.
Proposed mechanism Review authors interpretation
Suggested by reviewers: oleic acid may disturb the outer skin layer when skin is already inflamed.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any oil on eczema.
Preventing pressure injuries (bed sores) in hospital and nursing homes
Low certaintyThis is the strongest human use. In nursing homes, olive oil was not clearly worse than a standard fatty-acid product, and a small hospital trial found fewer pressure injuries with olive oil than with care alone. The trials are small or lack a no-treatment group.
4 studiesOlive oil applied to at-risk skin areas as part of routine nursing ca…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Two randomised trials and one systematic review in care settings.
Results
In 571 nursing-home residents, pressure ulcer incidence over up to 30 days was 4.18% with olive oil and 6.57% with a hyperoxygenated fatty acid product (difference -2.39%, 95% CI -6.40 to 1.56; within the non-inferiority margin). In 80 hospital patients, prevalence fell from 52.5% to 5% with olive oil plus standard care and to 22.5% with standard care alone over 7 days. A 2026 systematic review of 10 articles found olive oil and the fatty-acid product similarly effective and both safe.
Effect sizes as reported
Difference -2.39% (95% CI -6.40 to 1.56) in the larger trial.
Why this rating
Two randomised trials plus a review, but one has no no-treatment group and the other has only two clusters, a very high starting rate and a short follow-up.
Form and dose studied
Olive oil applied to at-risk skin areas as part of routine nursing care (repositioning, support surfaces).
Who was studied
Hospital patients and nursing-home residents at risk of pressure injuries.
Limits
Done under nursing care alongside other prevention. This does not show benefit for healthy skin at home.
Why researchers looked
Pressure injuries are costly, and olive oil is cheap and easy to apply.
Proposed mechanism Authors suggestion
Suggested only: the authors of the hospital trial point to the oil's fats and antioxidants. Not tested.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Not for use on open or broken skin; this is a care-team decision.
Stretch marks in pregnancy
Mixed findingsFour randomised trials tested olive oil on the belly in pregnancy. One Turkish trial found fewer and milder stretch marks; three Iranian trials found no significant difference. A 2015 review judged olive oil not effective.
5 studiesOlive oil on the abdomen twice a day during pregnancy.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Four randomised trials with mixed results.
Results
Stretch marks occurred in 50% with olive oil versus 69.2% with no treatment (156 women, third trimester, Turkey). In Iran: 40% versus 50% (second trimester, not significant), 72% versus 60% (not significant, with a cream group; 150 completed), and no significant difference in incidence or severity (100 women).
Effect sizes as reported
50% vs 69.2% in the positive trial; the other three were not significant.
Why this rating
One positive trial against three null trials; none blinded; dropouts in one.
Form and dose studied
Olive oil on the abdomen twice a day during pregnancy.
Who was studied
First-time pregnant women.
Limits
The abstracts do not report side effects. Stretch marks have no health risk themselves, per the 2015 review.
Why researchers looked
Olive oil is a very popular home remedy for stretch marks.
Proposed mechanism Composition only
Not tested; the idea is that the oil keeps skin supple.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Massage to protect the birth canal opening in labour
Not enough evidenceOne trial compared two oils for perineal massage in labour and found no difference in tears. The blend used was almond and olive oil with added vitamins, not olive oil alone.
1 studiesA vitamin-enriched almond and olive oil blend.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
One randomised trial of a blend against jojoba oil.
Results
In 164 women there were no significant differences in tears, stitches or stitching time between an almond and olive oil blend and jojoba oil (weighted OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.3 to 2.4 for tears by oil type).
Effect sizes as reported
Weighted OR 0.9 (95% CI 0.3 to 2.4).
Why this rating
One trial, a blend rather than olive oil alone, and no no-oil group.
Form and dose studied
A vitamin-enriched almond and olive oil blend.
Who was studied
Women in the second stage of labour.
Limits
Cannot show whether any oil beats no oil.
Why researchers looked
Oils are used to try to reduce tearing at birth.
Proposed mechanism Composition only
Not tested.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Massage with olive oil in preterm babies and weight gain
Very low certaintyOne small Iranian trial found preterm babies gained more weight with olive oil massage than with massage without oil (21 g versus 7 g a day over 10 days). It is a single, short, single-blind study.
2 studiesOlive oil massage three times a day for 15 minutes for 10 days.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
One randomised trial.
Results
Average daily weight gain was 21 g with olive oil massage versus 7 g with massage without oil (P < 0.001) over 10 days.
Effect sizes as reported
21 g vs 7 g a day.
Why this rating
One short single-blind trial with group sizes missing from the abstract. It measured weight, not skin, so it does not settle the skin barrier concerns.
Form and dose studied
Olive oil massage three times a day for 15 minutes for 10 days.
Who was studied
Preterm infants.
Limits
Preterm babies need hospital-guided care. Do not copy this at home.
Why researchers looked
Nurses in some units use oil in infant massage.
Proposed mechanism Authors suggestion
The authors suggest fats are absorbed through the skin; the trial did not test this.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Preterm babies should be handled only as the neonatal team directs.
Softening ear wax
Not enough evidenceAdvice disagrees. The NHS lists olive oil drops as a self-care option for ear wax (not if the eardrum has a hole). A 2018 family doctors' review says to avoid olive oil drops. A Cochrane review found no proof that any wax-softening drop beats water, and it did not name olive oil among its oil treatments.
4 studiesDrops in the ear; the sources do not agree on whether olive oil shoul…
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
No olive-oil-specific trial in the sources read.
Results
A Cochrane review of 10 trials (623 people) found no evidence that oil-based drops beat water or saline; the oil trials named other oils. In 11 chinchillas with a perforated eardrum, olive oil caused no hearing change at 30 days.
Effect sizes as reported
Active drops vs no treatment: RR 4.09 (95% CI 1.00 to 16.80), low-quality evidence.
Why this rating
Guidance disagrees and no olive-oil-specific human trial was read.
Form and dose studied
Drops in the ear; the sources do not agree on whether olive oil should be used.
Who was studied
People with blocked ears from wax.
Limits
The animal study had 11 animals. Ear problems should be checked by a clinician.
Why researchers looked
Olive oil drops are a long-standing home remedy for blocked ears.
Proposed mechanism Authors suggestion
Oils are thought to soften wax; not shown to be better than water.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Do not use drops if the eardrum may have a hole, or if there is pain or discharge. See the Safety tab.
Skin irritation from radiotherapy
Not enough evidenceAn umbrella review abstract says topical olive oil is suggested to prevent acute radiation dermatitis. No further detail was available in the abstract.
1 studiesNot described.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Mentioned only in one umbrella review abstract.
Results
No numbers in the abstract.
Why this rating
Only a one-line mention in a review abstract; the underlying trials were not read.
Form and dose studied
Not described.
Who was studied
People having radiotherapy.
Limits
Not checked beyond the abstract.
Why researchers looked
Skin care is part of radiotherapy support.
Proposed mechanism Composition only
Not described.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Ask the radiotherapy team before putting anything on treated skin.
Eating olive oil (heart health and death rates) - a different use
Low certaintyThis is about olive oil as a food, not as a skin or carrier oil. Large studies of what people eat link more olive oil to lower rates of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and early death, but not to cancer. These are links in observational studies, not proof that the oil caused them.
3 studiesOlive oil eaten as food. This page gives no eating advice.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Meta-analyses of cohort studies.
Results
Per extra 25 g a day, cardiovascular disease risk was 0.84 times as high (95% CI 0.76 to 0.94), type 2 diabetes 0.78 (0.69 to 0.87), and all-cause death 0.89 (0.85 to 0.93); no link with cancer. A second analysis found cardiovascular death risk 0.77 (0.67 to 0.88) with higher intake. An umbrella review rated 77% of the evidence low to moderate.
Effect sizes as reported
CVD RR 0.84 (0.76 to 0.94) per 25 g a day.
Why this rating
Mostly observational cohort studies, which can be confounded by diet and lifestyle.
Form and dose studied
Olive oil eaten as food. This page gives no eating advice.
Who was studied
Adults in cohort studies.
Limits
Does not show anything about olive oil on skin or as a carrier.
Why researchers looked
Olive oil is the main fat in Mediterranean-style eating.
Proposed mechanism Dietary pattern
Not part of this page.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Connections to the rest of health
How Olive Oil as a Carrier connects to the rest of our health knowledge graph. Every link says what kind of connection it is. A safety link (for example to the liver) is a warning, not a benefit. A study that merely mentions a topic never creates a benefit link.
Explore every connection: goals, body systems, organs, symptoms, genes
A. Wellness goals
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthy Skin | Mixed findings | Skin barrier and moisture in adults: Two forearm trials in adults disagree. A 2013 trial found that weeks of olive oil weakened the outer skin layer and caused mild redness. A 2025 trial found that extra virgin olive oil improved skin moisture and redness in healthy adults, though petrolatum did better on water loss. | 7 25 24 | |
| Healthy Skin | Evidence against | Baby skin care, massage and eczema prevention: Studies and guidelines point away from using olive oil on babies' skin. A pilot trial in newborns found less improvement in skin lipid structure with olive oil than with no oil. Reviews say it may harm the skin barrier, and an Indian paediatric guideline prefers other oils. | 5 6 3 18 15 | |
| Healthy Skin | Not enough evidence | Eczema and very dry skin: No trial of olive oil as a treatment for eczema was found. The concern runs the other way: a review of clinical studies says oils high in oleic acid, like olive oil, may add damage to inflamed skin. | 24 32 7 | |
| Healthy Skin | Low certainty | Preventing pressure injuries (bed sores) in hospital and nursing homes: This is the strongest human use. In nursing homes, olive oil was not clearly worse than a standard fatty-acid product, and a small hospital trial found fewer pressure injuries with olive oil than with care alone. The trials are small or lack a no-treatment group. | 8 4 26 33 | |
| Healthy Skin | Mixed findings | Stretch marks in pregnancy: Four randomised trials tested olive oil on the belly in pregnancy. One Turkish trial found fewer and milder stretch marks; three Iranian trials found no significant difference. A 2015 review judged olive oil not effective. | 27 28 30 29 16 | |
| Womens Wellness | Mixed findings | Stretch marks in pregnancy: Four randomised trials tested olive oil on the belly in pregnancy. One Turkish trial found fewer and milder stretch marks; three Iranian trials found no significant difference. A 2015 review judged olive oil not effective. | 27 28 30 29 16 | |
| Womens Wellness | Not enough evidence | Massage to protect the birth canal opening in labour: One trial compared two oils for perineal massage in labour and found no difference in tears. The blend used was almond and olive oil with added vitamins, not olive oil alone. | 10 | |
| Healthy Skin | Very low certainty | Massage with olive oil in preterm babies and weight gain: One small Iranian trial found preterm babies gained more weight with olive oil massage than with massage without oil (21 g versus 7 g a day over 10 days). It is a single, short, single-blind study. | 12 6 | |
| Healthy Skin | Not enough evidence | Softening ear wax: Advice disagrees. The NHS lists olive oil drops as a self-care option for ear wax (not if the eardrum has a hole). A 2018 family doctors' review says to avoid olive oil drops. A Cochrane review found no proof that any wax-softening drop beats water, and it did not name olive oil among its oil treatments. | 1 21 22 9 | |
| Healthy Skin | Not enough evidence | Skin irritation from radiotherapy: An umbrella review abstract says topical olive oil is suggested to prevent acute radiation dermatitis. No further detail was available in the abstract. | 33 | |
| Heart Health | Low certainty | Eating olive oil (heart health and death rates) - a different use: This is about olive oil as a food, not as a skin or carrier oil. Large studies of what people eat link more olive oil to lower rates of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and early death, but not to cancer. These are links in observational studies, not proof that the oil caused them. | 20 14 33 |
B. Body systems
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Hair Beauty | Biological association | Mixed findings | Studied for: Skin barrier and moisture in adults Studied for: Baby skin care, massage and eczema prevention | 7 25 24 5 6 3 18 15 32 8 4 26 33 27 28 30 29 16 10 12 |
| Integumentary System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Softening ear wax | 1 21 22 9 |
| Heart Circulation | Biological association | Low certainty | Studied for: Eating olive oil (heart health and death rates) - a different use | 20 14 33 |
C. Body parts and organs
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skin | Adverse effect or risk | Low certainty | Barrier weakening in one adult trial; rare contact allergy; extra caution on babies and eczema. Preparation or compound: Olive oil on skin |
7 11 17 24 |
| Skin | Biological association | Mixed findings | Barrier weakening in one adult trial, better hydration in another; used in care settings to prevent pressure injuries. Preparation or compound: Olive oil applied to skin |
7 25 8 |
E. Health conditions
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atopic dermatitis (eczema) | Adverse effect or risk | Low certainty | Authors warn oleic-rich oils may worsen it; no trial in eczema was found. Preparation or compound: Olive oil on skin |
7 24 6 |
I. Biomarkers
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water loss through the skin (TEWL) | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: mixed. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 25 5 |
| Water content of the outer skin layer | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: raised. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 25 5 |
| Pressure injury rate | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 8 4 |
| Share of pregnant women with stretch marks | Biological association | Mixed findings | Measured in trials: mixed. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 27 29 30 28 |
| Daily weight gain in preterm babies | Biological association | Very low certainty | Measured in trials: raised. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 12 |
| Risk of death from any cause (olive oil eaten as food) | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: lowered. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 20 14 |
K. Biological pathways
L. Active compounds
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oleic acid | Biological association | Chemistry | Main fat of olive oil. Reviewers suggest oleic-rich oils may add barrier damage on inflamed skin. Preparation or compound: Fruit oil |
2 24 |
| Linoleic acid | Biological association | Chemistry | The review of clinical studies links oils low in linoleic acid and high in oleic acid with the barrier-damage concern. Preparation or compound: Fruit oil |
24 2 |
| Hydroxytyrosol | Biological association | Chemistry | A storage study links higher hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol with better resistance to oxidation. Preparation or compound: Fruit oil (extra virgin and virgin) |
31 |
| Tyrosol | Biological association | Chemistry | As above. Preparation or compound: Fruit oil |
31 |
Each connection is stored with the ingredient, the connected record, the kind of connection, the evidence status, the supporting studies, the preparation or compound involved, and a review date (last reviewed October 25, 2026).
Evidence at a glance: what changed in 6 lab markers
Tap a number to show only those markers. Counts are markers, not people.
The evidence
The research centre for Olive Oil as a Carrier. Every record here was checked against PubMed or the publisher's page; we never list a study we have not verified.
Evidence by outcome
Bars show how many studies we found for each outcome, not how well it works. People are added up across trials only (reviews are not added, to avoid double counting).
How we rate evidence
High certainty
Several well-run trials or reviews agree; further research is unlikely to change the picture much.
Moderate certainty
Good trials point the same way, but some doubt remains.
Low certainty
Small, short or inconsistent trials. The finding could change with better research.
Very low certainty
Very little or very weak human data. Treat as a possibility only.
Mixed findings
Trials or reviews disagree with each other.
Not enough evidence
Not enough human research to say either way.
Evidence against
Good research found no benefit, or found harm.
We take the reviewers' own risk-of-bias and GRADE statements where they exist, and otherwise judge from study size, design, consistency, directness and whether a product matches what is sold. Many publications do not make evidence high. Method note: We read PubMed abstracts of 32 papers, the full NHS and Poison Control pages, and checked the plant name in GBIF and NCBI Taxonomy and compounds in PubChem. Certainty ratings are the compiler's own reading. Funding is not stated in most abstracts; one emollient review lists a skin-care company as a funder. No study is cited that we could not verify.
Study library: every study we checked 34
| Study | Design | People | Product, dose, length | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aaron 2018 Ear drops for the removal of ear wax. Cochrane Database Syst Rev · PMID 30043448 · DOI |
Systematic review |
623 Adults and children with ear wax blocking the ear (10 trials) |
Ear drops for wax (oil-based, water-based and other) Not given here Mostly about 5 days · vs No treatment, water or saline, or other drops |
Active drops cleared wax in 22% of ears versus 5% with no treatment after 5 days in one study (low-quality evidence), but there was no evidence of a difference between active drops and water or saline, or between oil-based and non-oil drops. Adverse effects were mild. The oil-based treatments named in the abstract were triethanolamine polypeptide, almond oil, benzocaine and chlorobutanol; olive oil is not named. No proof that one wax-softening drop beats another. (RR 4.09 (95% CI 1.00 to 16.80) active versus no treatment) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Complete clearance of wax; discomfort, irritation or pain Limitations: Nine of ten trials were over 15 years old and the evidence was low quality. Olive oil is not among the named oil treatments, so it says little about olive oil itself. Funding and conflicts: The PubMed record lists a US National Institutes of Health grant. Conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Abdalla 2024 A Comprehensive Review of Plant-Based Cosmetic Oils (Virgin Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Argan Oil, and Jojoba Oil): Chemical and Biological Properties and Their Cosmeceutical Applications. ACS Omega · PMID 39524627 · DOI |
Narrative review n/a |
Review of four plant cosmetic oils (virgin coconut, olive, argan, jojoba) | Cosmetic plant oils including olive oil fruit oil Not given here |
The review describes olive oil as well known for cosmetic and culinary uses, made mainly of saturated, polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids. It describes extraction methods that affect yield and quality. Descriptive; composition and uses. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Chemistry, production and cosmetic uses Limitations: A descriptive review. It does not report human trial results in the abstract. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Aksucu 2022 Effects of Topical Oils on Neonatal Skin: A Systematic Review. Adv Skin Wound Care · PMID 36409192 · DOI |
Systematic review |
5683 Neonates, mostly preterm (14 randomised trials) |
Topical oils (sunflower, coconut, almond, olive, mustard and vegetable oils) various oils Not given here Varied · vs Varied |
The review included 14 trials with a total of 5,683 neonates, most of them preterm. Only one trial used olive oil (sunflower n=8, coconut n=5, almond n=2, mustard n=1, vegetable n=1). Eleven studies concluded the oils improved skin condition and barrier function; three had equivocal, negative or mixed findings. The authors say current evidence shows potential benefit but more high-level evidence is needed. Mostly positive for other oils; olive oil had one trial. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Skin barrier function and skin integrity Limitations: Results are pooled for several oils, mostly sunflower and coconut. Olive oil was tested in only one of the 14 trials, so the review says little about olive oil itself. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Almesmari 2026 Topical Application of Olive Oil in Preventing Pressure Injuries Among Hospitalized Patients with Mobility Limitations: A Cluster Randomized Trial in the United Arab Emirates. Rev Recent Clin Trials · PMID 40626528 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
80 Hospitalised patients at risk of pressure injuries with limited mobility (UAE) |
Olive oil on the skin plus standard prevention care fruit oil Not given here 7 consecutive days · vs Standard prevention care alone |
Both groups started at 52.5% pressure injury prevalence. After 7 days it fell to 5% (2 of 40) with olive oil and to 22.5% (9 of 40) with standard care alone. The authors conclude olive oil with standard care reduced pressure injuries. Prevalence 5% with olive oil versus 22.5% with care alone. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Pressure injury prevalence and Braden scale scores Limitations: Very small. Only two clusters were randomised, which makes the comparison weak, and half of the patients already had a pressure injury at the start. Short follow-up. The results text itself is hard to follow (Braden score changes are reported oddly), so treat the headline figure with caution. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Cooke 2016 Olive Oil, Sunflower Oil or no Oil for Baby Dry Skin or Massage: A Pilot, Assessor-blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial (the Oil in Baby SkincaRE [OBSeRvE] Study). Acta Derm Venereol · PMID 26551528 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
115 Healthy full-term newborns, stratified by family history of atopic eczema |
Olive oil or sunflower oil on baby skin fruit oil / seed oil Not given here Twice daily for 4 weeks · vs No oil |
Both oil groups had significantly better hydration, but significantly less improvement in the structure of skin lipids than the no-oil group. There were no significant differences in TEWL, pH or redness and skin scores. The authors say the study was not powered for clinical significance and advise caution in recommending oils for neonatal skin. Hydration better with oil; lipid structure improved less than with no oil. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Skin lipid structure, TEWL, hydration, pH, redness and skin scores Limitations: A feasibility pilot, not powered to show clinical effects; recruitment was 11.1% and retention 80%. It reports no eczema outcome. Funding and conflicts: The PubMed record lists the UK Department of Health as a funder. Conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Cooke 2018 Skin care for healthy babies at term: A systematic review of the evidence. Midwifery · PMID 29055852 · DOI |
Systematic review |
Healthy term babies up to 6 months old (26 papers, 16 randomised trials) | Baby skin care practices, including oils for dry skin and baby massage Not given here · vs Water or other products |
The review found some evidence that daily full-body emollient may reduce atopic eczema risk in high-risk babies, but that using olive oil or sunflower oil for baby dry skin may adversely affect skin barrier function. It found no evidence about baby massage. The authors found no difference between tested wash products and water alone. Olive and sunflower oil for dry baby skin may harm the barrier. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Skin barrier and eczema risk with different baby skin care practices Limitations: Search covered 2000 to 2015, English only; outcome measures were inconsistent so meta-analysis was limited. The wording 'may adversely affect' is the reviewers' own and is based on a small number of studies. Funding and conflicts: The PubMed record lists the UK Department of Health as a funder. Conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Danby 2013 Effect of olive and sunflower seed oil on the adult skin barrier: implications for neonatal skin care. Pediatr Dermatol · PMID 22995032 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
19 Adult volunteers with and without a history of atopic dermatitis (two forearm-controlled studies) |
Olive oil on the forearm (olive oil in both studies; sunflower seed oil on the other forearm in the second) fruit oil (type not stated in abstract) Not given here 4 to 5 weeks, twice daily · vs Untreated forearm (first study); sunflower seed oil on the other forearm (second study) |
After 4 weeks, olive oil significantly reduced stratum corneum integrity and caused mild redness in volunteers with and without a history of atopic dermatitis. Sunflower seed oil kept integrity, caused no redness and improved hydration. The authors conclude olive oil damages the skin barrier and could promote or worsen atopic dermatitis, and that its use for dry skin and infant massage should be discouraged. Barrier integrity fell with olive oil; not with sunflower oil. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Stratum corneum integrity and cohesion, hydration, skin pH, redness Limitations: Small (19 adults), forearm tests of a few weeks, measuring skin-surface properties rather than eczema itself. Grade of the olive oil is not given in the abstract. Adults, not infants. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract (the record lists non-US government research support). Read: abstract |
| Díaz-Valenzuela 2019 Effectiveness and safety of olive oil preparation for topical use in pressure ulcer prevention: Multicentre, controlled, randomised, and double-blinded clinical trial. Int Wound J · PMID 31475465 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
571 Nursing-home residents at risk of pressure ulcers (23 homes, Spain) |
Olive oil solution applied to at-risk skin areas, compared with a hyperoxygenated fatty acid compound fruit oil Not given here Every 12 hours for 30 days or until a pressure ulcer appeared · vs Hyperoxygenated fatty acid compound (not a placebo) |
Pressure ulcer incidence was 4.18% in the olive oil group and 6.57% in the comparison group (difference -2.39%, 95% CI -6.40 to 1.56), within the pre-set non-inferiority margin of 7%. The authors present this as the first evidence of effectiveness and safety of topical olive oil for preventing pressure ulcers in elderly people in institutions. Olive oil was not worse than the comparison product. (Difference -2.39% (95% CI -6.40 to 1.56)) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Pressure ulcer incidence Limitations: There was no untreated or placebo group, so the trial shows olive oil was not clearly worse than another product, not that it beats doing nothing. Done alongside routine nursing care. Funding and conflicts: The PubMed record lists a regional health foundation (Junta de Andalucia) as a funder. Conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Emami 2013 Ototoxicity of olive oil in a chinchilla animal model. Laryngoscope · PMID 23616417 · DOI |
Animal research animal |
11 Chinchillas with a perforated eardrum |
Olive oil in one ear and saline in the other fruit oil Not given here 30 days of follow-up · vs Saline in the other ear |
At 30 days there was no significant change in hearing thresholds and no hair cell damage on electron microscopy. The authors conclude olive oil does not seem to cause hearing loss in chinchillas with perforated eardrums. No hearing change in 11 animals. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Hearing thresholds (auditory brain response) and inner ear hair cells Limitations: Animal study, 11 animals, one-off exposure; the authors say clinical studies are required. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Harlev 2013 Can we find the perfect oil to protect the perineum? A randomized-controlled double-blind trial. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med · PMID 23570446 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
164 Women having a vaginal birth |
Perineal massage in the second stage of labour with a blend of almond and olive oil enriched with vitamins (not olive oil alone), compared with jojoba oil fruit oil in a blend Not given here Second stage of labour · vs Jojoba oil (liquid wax) |
There were no significant differences in tears, number of stitches or stitching time between the two oils. The authors conclude the type of oil had no effect on the perineum. No difference between two oils. (Weighted OR 0.9 (95% CI 0.3 to 2.4) for tears by oil type) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Perineal tears, stitches Limitations: A vitamin-enriched almond and olive oil blend, not pure olive oil. There was no no-oil group, so it cannot show whether massage with any oil helps. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Isaksson 1999 Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from olive oil in a masseur. J Am Acad Dermatol · PMID 10426917 · DOI |
Case report |
1 A masseur with hand eczema |
Olive oil used in massage fruit oil Not given here Occupational exposure |
Patch tests with olive oil were positive and a use test was positive after 2 days; an oral test was negative. The authors say contact allergy to olive oil is rare (about 20 cases described earlier) but sensitisation occurs, and that external use of olive oil should be discouraged, at least in masseurs, under occlusion and in long-standing skin disease. A rare true allergy to olive oil on skin. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Allergic contact dermatitis Limitations: A single case report from 1999 plus a count of earlier cases. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Jabraeile 2016 Effect of olive oil massage on weight gain in preterm infants: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Niger Med J · PMID 27397955 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
Preterm infants (Iran) | Massage with olive oil, compared with massage without oil fruit oil Not given here 10 days, 3 times a day for 15 minutes · vs Massage without oil |
Weight gain averaged 21 g a day with olive oil massage and 7 g a day with massage without oil (P < 0.001). The authors recommend nurses use oil in infant massage in neonatal units. 21 g a day versus 7 g a day. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Daily weight gain Limitations: Single-blind, 10 days, group sizes not given in the abstract. This sits uneasily with the baby-skin-barrier findings above, and the authors' idea that oil helps by being absorbed through the skin was not tested. Needs confirmation before any weight is put on it. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Kakouri 2021 Authentication of the Botanical and Geographical Origin and Detection of Adulteration of Olive Oil Using Gas Chromatography, Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy Techniques: A Review. Foods · PMID 34359435 · DOI |
Narrative review n/a |
Review of laboratory methods for checking olive oil authenticity | Olive oil authenticity testing (infrared, Raman, gas chromatography) fruit oil Not given here |
The review says olive oil is one of the products most subject to adulteration for economic reasons, so authenticity is a concern for authorities. It describes methods that can detect adulteration and identify botanical and geographical origin. Olive oil is a frequent target of adulteration. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Detection of adulteration and origin Limitations: A methods review; it gives no rates for how much of the oil on sale is adulterated. Funding and conflicts: The record lists a European regional development fund. Conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Ke 2024 Olive oil intake and cardiovascular disease, cancer, and all-cause mortality: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. Food Funct · PMID 38568797 · DOI |
Systematic review |
2710351 Adults in prospective cohort studies (eating olive oil) |
Olive oil eaten as food fruit oil Dietary intake Varied · vs Lower intake |
Higher olive oil intake was linked to lower risk of cardiovascular disease (RR 0.85, 95% CI 0.77 to 0.93), coronary heart disease (RR 0.85, 0.72 to 0.99), cardiovascular death (RR 0.77, 0.67 to 0.88) and all-cause death (RR 0.85, 0.81 to 0.89). No link with cancer incidence or death was found. Higher intake was linked to lower heart disease and death risk. (CVD RR 0.85 (0.77 to 0.93)) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Cardiovascular disease, cancer, all-cause mortality Limitations: Observational cohort studies. About food, not skin use. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Kelleher 2022 Skin care interventions in infants for preventing eczema and food allergy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev · PMID 36373988 · DOI |
Systematic review |
5217 Healthy term infants up to 12 months without eczema (11 trials in meta-analyses) |
Skin care in the first year, mostly emollients (all types, not olive oil alone) Not given here 24 hours to 3 years · vs No skin care intervention or local standard care |
Skin care interventions probably do not change eczema risk by 1 to 3 years (RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.31; moderate certainty). They may increase IgE-mediated food allergy (RR 2.53, 95% CI 0.99 to 6.49; low certainty, one trial) and probably increase skin infection during the intervention (RR 1.33, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.75; moderate certainty). The authors conclude emollients in healthy infants are probably not effective for preventing eczema, may increase food allergy risk and probably increase skin infection risk. No eczema prevention; possible harms. (RR 1.03 (0.81 to 1.31) for eczema) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Eczema, IgE-mediated food allergy, skin infection and other events Limitations: Covers moisturisers in general; the abstract does not say which trials used olive oil. Most evidence low certainty. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Korgavkar 2015 Stretch marks during pregnancy: a review of topical prevention. Br J Dermatol · PMID 25255817 · DOI |
Narrative review |
Pregnant women (review of topical stretch mark prevention) | Topical products including olive oil Not given here |
The authors find limited evidence that centella, and possibly massage with bitter almond oil, may prevent stretch marks. They state that cocoa butter and olive oil are not effective for preventing stretch marks or reducing the severity of lesions, and that reliable prevention methods are scarce. Olive oil judged not effective. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Stretch mark prevention Limitations: A 2015 review; it predates the 2022 trial that found benefit. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Kränke 1997 Olive oil--contact sensitizer or irritant? Contact Dermatitis · PMID 9034680 · DOI |
Case series |
100 Eczema patients (77 women, 23 men) patch tested with fresh olive oil |
Olive oil patch tests (open test, repeated open application test, and occluded tests) fruit oil Not given here Single patch tests |
Five patients had positive reactions; only one could be classed as probably allergic. The authors conclude olive oil is very weakly irritant in general but can irritate under occlusion, and seems less than suitable for treating eczema of the lower legs with venous insufficiency. 5 of 100 eczema patients reacted; mostly irritation, not allergy. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Positive skin reactions and whether they looked allergic or irritant Limitations: A 1997 patch test study in people who already had eczema, so rates may be higher than in healthy skin. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Madhu 2021 Indian Academy of Pediatrics Guidelines for Pediatric Skin Care. Indian Pediatr · PMID 33632947 |
Authoritative guidance n/a |
Newborns, infants and children (India) | Skin care practices including oil massage Not given here |
The guideline recommends oil massage and prefers massage with sunflower oil, coconut oil or mineral oil over vegetable oils such as olive oil and mustard oil, which it says have been found to be detrimental to barrier function. Guideline prefers other oils over olive oil for baby massage. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Recommendations for paediatric skin care Limitations: Consensus guideline from a committee review; it is a professional society's recommendation for India, not a trial. The abstract does not list the studies it relied on for olive oil. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Maestrello 2022 Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy in extra virgin olive oil authentication. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf · PMID 35876303 · DOI |
Narrative review n/a |
Review of nuclear magnetic resonance testing of extra virgin olive oil | Extra virgin olive oil authentication fruit oil Not given here |
The review says extra virgin olive oil has become a star of the food fraud context, with fraud ranging from adulteration with cheaper oils to mislabelling. It says officially recognised analytical methods cannot unambiguously trace geographical and botanical origin, and reviews NMR as a tool. Adulteration and mislabelling are known fraud types. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Detecting fraud Limitations: A methods review; it gives no rates and does not cover skin-care oils. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Martínez-González 2022 Effect of olive oil consumption on cardiovascular disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and all-cause mortality: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Nutr · PMID 36343558 · DOI |
Systematic review |
806203 Adults in prospective cohort studies and one randomised trial (eating olive oil) |
Olive oil eaten as food, per extra 25 g a day fruit oil Dietary intake, expressed per 25 g a day in the paper Follow-up 3.7 to 28 years · vs Lower intake |
Per extra 25 g a day, the relative risk was 0.84 for cardiovascular disease (95% CI 0.76 to 0.94), 0.78 for type 2 diabetes (0.69 to 0.87) and 0.89 for all-cause mortality (0.85 to 0.93). There was no significant link with cancer risk (RR 0.94, 0.86 to 1.03). Eating more olive oil was linked to lower heart disease, diabetes and death rates. (CVD RR 0.84 (0.76 to 0.94) per 25 g/day) Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Cardiovascular disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, all-cause mortality Limitations: Mostly observational cohort studies, so the link may partly reflect diet and lifestyle. About food, not skin use. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Michaudet 2018 Cerumen Impaction: Diagnosis and Management. Am Fam Physician · PMID 30277727 |
Authoritative guidance |
Adults and children with ear wax blocking the ear | Management of ear wax Not given here |
The paper says effective treatments include wax-softening agents, irrigation and manual removal. It states that cotton-tipped swabs, ear candling, and olive oil drops or sprays should be avoided. Advises avoiding olive oil ear drops. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Diagnosis and treatment of impacted ear wax Limitations: A clinical review for family doctors; the abstract does not give the evidence behind the olive oil advice. It disagrees with NHS advice, which lists olive oil drops as a self-care option. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| NHS 2024 NHS: Earwax build-up (page last reviewed 5 January 2024) NHS website · Source |
Authoritative guidance n/a |
n/a | n/a Not given here |
The NHS lists olive or almond oil drops as a way to treat ear wax build-up yourself, says not to use almond oil if allergic to almonds, advises not to use drops if you have a hole in the eardrum (a perforated eardrum), and says to see a nurse at the GP surgery if symptoms have not cleared after 5 days or the ear is badly blocked. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Self-care advice for ear wax Limitations: A patient information page, not a trial. It disagrees with the 2018 American Family Physician review, which advises avoiding olive oil drops. Read: full-text |
| National Capital Poison Center 2026 Poison Control (National Capital Poison Center): Essential oils, poisonous when misused (undated) poison.org · Source |
Authoritative guidance n/a |
n/a | n/a Not given here |
Poison Control says diluting essential oils in a carrier oil is the best way to avoid a bad reaction from direct skin contact, that not all essential oils are appropriate for skin, that essential oils should not be used on damaged skin, that a rash is the most common allergic reaction and the oil should be washed off, that children have thin skin and immature livers that may make them more susceptible, and that bottles must be kept out of reach of children and pets. It does not mention olive oil. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Essential oil safety on skin Limitations: A US poison centre page about essential oils in general, not about olive oil. It gives no dilution figure. Read: full-text |
| Poljšak 2022 Vegetable Butters and Oils as Therapeutically and Cosmetically Active Ingredients for Dermal Use: A Review of Clinical Studies. Front Pharmacol · PMID 35548366 · DOI |
Narrative review |
27 clinical studies of 17 vegetable oils and butters on skin | Vegetable oils and butters on skin (olive oil among 17) Not given here |
The authors conclude that in inflammation-affected skin, oils high in oleic acid and low or lacking in linoleic acid may cause additional structural damage to the outer skin layer, while oils high in linoleic acid and saturated fatty acids may have positive effects. Non-affected skin may not react negatively to oils high in oleic acid. Frequency and duration of use may speed or increase negative effects. Oleic-rich oils may harm inflamed skin; healthy skin may tolerate them. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Effects on non-affected skin, infant skin, psoriasis, xerosis, atopic dermatitis, striae and other uses Limitations: A narrative review. The abstract does not list results oil by oil, so it does not say how many of the studies tested olive oil. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Rubio-Santoyo 2025 Effects of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Petrolatum on Skin Barrier Function and Microtopography. J Clin Med · PMID 40649050 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
54 Healthy adult volunteers (50% female, mean age 28.57) |
Extra virgin olive oil on the inner forearm, compared with petrolatum fruit oil Not given here · vs Petrolatum on another forearm area (within-person) |
Both extra virgin olive oil and petrolatum increased skin hydration and reduced redness and skin temperature. Petrolatum also reduced TEWL, and its effects were stronger. Olive oil raised the share of early-stage corneocytes (type 1), which the authors read as faster skin renewal. The authors conclude both improved skin barrier function. Olive oil improved hydration and redness in healthy adults; petrolatum did better on water loss. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), temperature, redness, skin microtopography, corneocyte types Limitations: Healthy adults only; short-term; the abstract does not give the length of treatment or numbers. It does not test babies or eczema. The finding conflicts with the 2013 forearm trial, which tested olive oil for weeks and found barrier damage. Funding and conflicts: The PubMed record lists a university research office as the funder. Conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Rus-Vega 2026 Effectiveness of Olive Oil and Hyperoxygenated Fatty Acids for the Prevention of Pressure Injuries: A Systematic Review. Adv Skin Wound Care · PMID 40853126 · DOI |
Systematic review |
Patients at risk of pressure injuries (10 articles) | Olive oil and hyperoxygenated fatty acids on skin fruit oil Not given here Varied · vs Varied |
The review of 10 articles found that both olive oil and hyperoxygenated fatty acids are effective for prevention, with no statistically significant difference between them, and that both are safe. It reports a 50% cost difference in favour of olive oil. The authors say more research is needed. Olive oil and the comparison product performed similarly. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Pressure injury prevention Limitations: The abstract does not give numbers or say how many trials had an untreated comparison group. It compares products, so it cannot show how much either helps compared with nothing. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Solt Kırca 2022 Effects of Olive Oil on Striae Gravidarum in Primiparous Women: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Study. Altern Ther Health Med · PMID 34559686 |
Controlled trial |
156 First-time pregnant Turkish women in the third trimester |
Olive oil on the abdomen twice a day from the third trimester to birth fruit oil Not given here Third trimester to birth · vs No intervention |
Stretch marks occurred in 50% of the olive oil group and 69.2% of the control group. Severity scores were lower with olive oil (2 versus 4). The authors conclude olive oil was very effective in reducing severity and preventing progression. Stretch marks in 50% with olive oil versus 69.2% with no treatment. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Incidence, type and severity of stretch marks (Davey severity score) Limitations: One site, no blinding is possible with an oil versus nothing, and the outcome was judged by scoring scales. It disagrees with three earlier randomised trials in Iran that found no benefit. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Registration: NCT04489901 Read: abstract |
| Soltanipoor 2012 The effect of olive oil on prevention of striae gravidarum: a randomized controlled clinical trial. Complement Ther Med · PMID 22863639 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
100 First-time pregnant women (Tehran) |
1 cc of olive oil on the abdominal skin twice a day without massage fruit oil 1 cc twice a day (as stated) Until delivery · vs No cream or oil |
Severe stretch marks were less frequent with olive oil, but there was no statistically significant difference between groups in incidence or severity. The authors say olive oil could not be recommended for preventing stretch marks. No significant difference. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Stretch mark incidence and severity Limitations: Small trial; no blinding is possible against 'no treatment'. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Soltanipour 2014 The effect of olive oil and the Saj® cream in prevention of striae gravidarum: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Complement Ther Med · PMID 24731892 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
150 First-time pregnant women in the second trimester (360 enrolled, 150 completed; Tehran) |
Olive oil, compared with a cream (Saj) and no treatment fruit oil Not given here Until 38 to 40 weeks of pregnancy · vs Saj cream and no treatment |
Stretch marks occurred in 72% with olive oil, 64% with the cream and 60% with no treatment, with no significant differences in incidence or severity. The authors conclude neither olive oil nor the cream prevented stretch marks. 72% with olive oil versus 60% with nothing, not significant. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Occurrence and severity of stretch marks Limitations: Many dropouts (360 enrolled, 150 completed). Not blinded for an oil versus nothing. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Taavoni 2011 Effects of olive oil on striae gravidarum in the second trimester of pregnancy. Complement Ther Clin Pract · PMID 21742284 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
Pregnant women in the second trimester | Olive oil on the abdomen twice a day fruit oil Not given here To the end of the second trimester · vs No oil |
Stretch marks occurred in 40% of women using olive oil and 50% of controls, with no significant difference. The authors say olive oil to the end of the second trimester was not effective. 40% versus 50%, not significant. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Occurrence of stretch marks Limitations: The abstract does not give group sizes. Short follow-up (second trimester only). Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Vendrell Calatayud 2024 Storage effect on olive oil phenols: cultivar-specific responses. Front Nutr · PMID 39077155 · DOI |
Other n/a |
Oil from eight olive varieties grown in Tuscany, tested in the lab | Virgin olive oil stored for seven months fruit oil Not given here 7 months · vs Fresh oil |
After seven months of storage, free fatty acids and peroxide values increased significantly, which the authors read as more hydrolysis and oxidation. Varieties differed: Leccino, Moraiolo and Pendolino were less affected, Bianchera and Caninese more. Olive oil oxidises with storage; varieties differ. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Free fatty acids, peroxide value and phenols Limitations: Lab chemistry of food-grade oil; it does not test skin effects of aged oil. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Wollenberg 2025 Basic Emollients for Xerosis Cutis in Atopic Dermatitis: A Review of Clinical Studies. Int J Dermatol · PMID 40265493 · DOI |
Narrative review |
People with atopic dermatitis and dry skin (clinical studies of basic emollients) | Basic emollients, searched by ingredient (olive oil is one of about 20 ingredients searched) Not given here |
The authors say that most basic emollient formulations are safe and effective for xerosis cutis in atopic dermatitis, and that ongoing use matters. The abstract names olive oil only in the list of ingredients searched and gives no olive-oil-specific result. General emollient review; nothing specific about olive oil in the abstract. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Dry skin (xerosis) in atopic dermatitis Limitations: The record lists a skin-care company (Pierre Fabre) as a funder, so industry links are possible. No olive-oil-specific finding is given in the abstract. Funding and conflicts: The PubMed record lists Les Laboratoires Pierre Fabre as a funder (industry-linked). Read: abstract |
| Zou 2025 Cardiovascular, Metabolic and Endocrine, Cancer, Mortality, Derma, and Other Outcomes of Olive Oil and Oleic Acid: An Umbrella Review. Food Sci Nutr · PMID 41142012 · DOI |
Umbrella review |
Systematic reviews of olive oil and oleic acid (19 of 741 eligible studies included) | Olive oil (eaten and on skin) and oleic acid fruit oil Not given here Varied · vs Varied |
The review says topical olive oil is suggested to prevent pressure ulcers and acute radiation dermatitis, and that only a few adverse reactions (occupational allergic contact dermatitis and lichen planus pigmentosus) have been reported. For eating it reports 22% lower type 2 diabetes risk, 18% lower cardiovascular risk, and 11% lower all-cause mortality per 25 g a day. The quality of 77% of the evidence was low to moderate, and 69% of the studies had low or critically low methodological quality. Skin use: a few suggested benefits and rare reactions. Food: associations, mostly low to moderate quality. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Heart, metabolic, cancer, death and skin outcomes Limitations: An umbrella review of other reviews, mostly of low quality by its own rating. The abstract does not give details of the skin findings. Funding and conflicts: Funding and conflicts of interest are not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| n/a 2026 GBIF Backbone Taxonomy: Olea europaea L. (species match API); NCBI Taxonomy id 4146 n/a · Source |
Database record n/a |
n/a | n/a Not given here |
Olea europaea L. is ACCEPTED in GBIF (key 5415040), family Oleaceae, order Lamiales. NCBI Taxonomy lists Olea europaea (common olive) as taxid 4146. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Accepted name and classification Limitations: Taxonomy only. Retrieved 2026-10-25 through the GBIF and NCBI APIs. Read: database |
What we do not know yet
- What the evidence supports: mixed for adult skin barrier and stretch marks, low for pressure injury prevention and for eating olive oil, against for baby skin care, insufficient or very low for the rest.
- No trial of olive oil as an eczema treatment, or for acne, scars, wounds, hair or anti-ageing claims.
- No comparison of extra virgin, refined and light olive oil on skin.
- No olive-specific dilution guidance for essential oils, and no data on pets, asthma, sun exposure or medicine interactions.
- Regulator statements (EMA, FDA, EFSA, Cosmetic Ingredient Review) and LiverTox were not read.
How new research is added
New studies are found by a saved PubMed search and placed in a review queue. A person reads each one before it changes any rating or safety wording.
Lab markers
What changed in blood or saliva tests during trials. A changed number is not the same as feeling or being healthier, and we give no "normal ranges".
Other 6
Water loss through the skin (TEWL)
Mixed results in trials
How much water escapes through the skin surface; lower numbers mean a tighter barrier.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
A standard measure of skin barrier function.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
A skin-surface measure, not a health outcome.
Safety implication
None reported.
Water content of the outer skin layer
Raised in trials
How moist the top layer of skin is, measured with a probe.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Used to judge moisturisers.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Short-term skin measure; oils sit on the surface and add moisture feel. Does not show a lasting skin benefit.
Safety implication
None reported.
Pressure injury rate
Lowered in trials
The share of patients who develop a pressure injury (bed sore) during the study.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
A clinical outcome in care settings.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
A real clinical outcome, but trial quality is limited.
Safety implication
None reported in the abstracts.
Share of pregnant women with stretch marks
Mixed results in trials
The percentage of women who develop visible stretch marks by the end of pregnancy.
Mixed findingsResults and what it means
Why it was measured
The main outcome in prevention trials.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Appearance outcome; stretch marks are not harmful.
Safety implication
None reported in the abstracts.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27 | 50% with olive oil versus 69.2% with no intervention. | 156 first-time pregnant women | Olive oil on the abdomen twice a day |
| 29 | 72% with olive oil versus 60% with no treatment; not significant. | 150 women completed | Olive oil |
| 30 | 40% with olive oil versus 50% with no oil; not significant. | Second-trimester pregnant women | Olive oil |
Daily weight gain in preterm babies
Raised in trials
Grams gained per day by a preterm baby.
Very low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
A growth measure in the neonatal unit.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
One short trial; needs confirmation.
Safety implication
None reported.
| Study | Result | People | Product |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 21 g a day with olive oil massage versus 7 g a day with massage without oil. | Preterm infants, 10 days | Olive oil massage |
Risk of death from any cause (olive oil eaten as food)
Lowered in trials
How the overall death rate changes in people who eat more olive oil.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Why it was measured
A large-cohort outcome for the food, kept separate from skin use.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Observational association; not a test of the oil itself.
Safety implication
None reported.
Safety
What studies and official sources say about side effects, medicines and who should check first. Each point shows what kind of evidence it comes from.
Main points to know 5
- Olive oil can weaken the skin barrier and may worsen eczema, especially in babies. A 2013 randomised forearm trial in 19 adults found that 4 weeks of olive oil significantly reduced the strength of the outer skin layer and caused mild redness, with or without a history of atopic dermatitis. Its authors say olive oil may promote or worsen atopic dermatitis and should be discouraged for dry skin and infant massage. A review of 27 clinical studies says oils high in oleic acid may cause extra damage to inflamed skin, while healthy skin may not react badly. A 2025 trial in 54 healthy adults found olive oil improved hydration, so the evidence is not all one way. Controlled trial 7 24 25
- Babies: reviews and a paediatric guideline advise caution. A 2018 systematic review says olive or sunflower oil for baby dry skin may adversely affect skin barrier function. A pilot trial in 115 newborns found less improvement in skin lipid structure with olive or sunflower oil than with no oil. An Indian Academy of Pediatrics guideline prefers sunflower, coconut or mineral oil over olive oil, which it says has been found detrimental to barrier function. A Cochrane review of emollients in general (not olive oil alone) found they probably do not prevent eczema, may increase food allergy risk (low certainty) and probably increase skin infection. Ask a doctor or nurse before using any oil on a baby. Systematic review 6 5 18 15
- Skin reactions are rare but real. An umbrella review says only a few adverse reactions to topical olive oil have been reported, such as occupational allergic contact dermatitis and lichen planus pigmentosus. A masseur developed true contact allergy to olive oil (a 1999 case report that counted about 20 earlier cases). In 100 eczema patients patch tested with fresh olive oil, 5 reacted and only 1 looked probably allergic; the authors call olive oil weakly irritating, with more irritation under occlusion (covered skin). They say it seems unsuitable for eczema of legs with poor vein circulation. Case report 33 11 17
- Ears: guidance disagrees, and a hole in the eardrum is a stop sign. The NHS lists olive or almond oil drops as a self-care option for blocked ears but says not to use drops if you have a hole in the eardrum. A 2018 American Family Physician review says olive oil drops or sprays should be avoided. A Cochrane review found no proof that any wax-softening drop beats water, and its named oil treatments did not include olive oil. In 11 chinchillas with a perforated eardrum, olive oil caused no hearing change at 30 days. See a nurse or doctor if wax has not cleared after 5 days, or if there is pain or discharge. Authoritative guidance 22 21 1 9
- A carrier oil does not make an unsuitable essential oil safe. Poison Control says diluting essential oils in a carrier oil is the best way to avoid a bad reaction on skin, but that not all essential oils are appropriate for skin, and that they should not be used on damaged skin. It gives no olive-specific dilution figure, and none was found in the other sources read. Keep essential oils and carrier oil blends away from children and pets. Authoritative guidance 23
Side effects 4
| Effect | How often | Severity and recovery | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weaker outer skin layer and mild redness with repeated use on forearm skin (adults) Measured by skin tests, not by symptoms. | Seen in the 2013 trial of 19 adults; not seen in the 2025 trial of 54 healthy adults, which reported better hydration and less redness | mild Not reported in the abstract | Controlled trial 7 25 |
| Contact allergy (rash, hand eczema) from olive oil Reported in a masseur exposed at work. | Rare. A 1999 report counted about 20 earlier cases; 1 of 100 eczema patients tested looked probably allergic | mild to moderate Not reported | Case report 11 17 33 |
| Skin irritation, mainly under covered skin (occlusion) Patch tests in people who already had eczema. | 5 of 100 eczema patients had positive patch reactions, most looked irritant | mild Not reported | Case series 17 |
| Possible extra skin infection and food allergy risk from moisturising babies' skin in general Covers emollients in general, not olive oil alone. | Skin infection RR 1.33 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.75, moderate certainty); food allergy RR 2.53 (0.99 to 6.49, low certainty, one trial) | moderate Not reported | Systematic review 15 |
Liver
No source read describes liver injury from olive oil on skin or as a carrier. Poison Control says children's immature livers may make them more susceptible to essential oils, which is a warning about essential oils, not olive oil. LiverTox was not searched for this page. 23
How often. Not known.
This is a safety connection. It is not evidence that Olive Oil as a Carrier supports liver health.
Medicines and supplements 3
| With | Why it matters | Importance | Evidence | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essential oils mixed into the carrier other | Olive oil dilutes essential oils and makes them easier to spread; it does not change which oils are skin-sensitising or toxic. | A carrier does not make an unsuitable essential oil suitable. Check the essential oil's own safety. | Authoritative guidance Moderate certainty 23 | Follow the essential oil's own guidance. Poison Control gives no olive-specific dilution figure. |
| Covered or occluded skin (dressings, wraps, plastic) other | Covering skin kept wet with oil can raise irritation, as the patch test authors describe. | More irritation under covering in a patch test study of eczema patients. | Case series Low certainty 17 11 | Avoid covering oiled skin unless a clinician says so. |
| Medicines used on skin or in the ear drug | Not described. | No interaction study found. | Insufficient Not enough evidence | Ask a pharmacist before mixing oils with skin creams or ear drops. |
Who should check first 5
| Situation | Advice | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Babies, especially with eczema, dry skin or a family history of eczema | Ask a doctor or nurse first; guidelines prefer other oils. | Authoritative guidance 18 6 5 |
| Eczema, inflamed or broken skin | Avoid unless a doctor says otherwise. Oleic-rich oils may add barrier damage to inflamed skin. | Narrative review 24 7 |
| A known allergy to olive oil, or eczema of the lower legs with poor vein circulation | Avoid. Contact allergy is rare but has been reported. | Case report 11 17 |
| A hole (perforation) in the eardrum, ear pain or ear discharge | Do not put drops in the ear; see a doctor. | Authoritative guidance 22 |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | Skin use in the stretch mark trials did not report harms in the abstracts, but those abstracts do not describe safety checks. Ask a midwife or doctor before adding essential oils. | Controlled trial 27 28 30 29 |
Overdose, product quality and regulators
Summary. No source read reports poisoning from olive oil itself on skin. The serious toxicity warnings in the sources are about essential oils that may be mixed into it, especially if swallowed or used on children.
Animal. One chinchilla study found no hearing change with olive oil in the middle ear.
Human doses studied. Skin trials used small amounts for days to weeks; this page gives no amounts.
High dose or long term signals. Repeated use on forearm skin weakened the barrier in one trial. Occlusion can raise irritation.
Overdose response. Not covered. For a swallowed essential oil blend, call a poison centre.
Genotoxicity. Not read.
Quality problems with olive oil are about fraud and spoilage, not about a contaminant found in skin oil. No study tested olive oil sold for skin use.
Adulteration and mislabelling. Reviews say olive oil is one of the products most subject to adulteration for money reasons, and that extra virgin olive oil has become a star of the food fraud context, with fraud from mixing in cheaper oils to mislabelling. Officially recognised methods cannot unambiguously trace where an oil came from. The reviews give no rates, and they do not cover cosmetic oils. 13 19
Rancidity and storage. In a lab study of eight olive varieties, free fatty acids and peroxide values rose significantly after seven months of storage, signs of more breakdown and oxidation; some varieties held up better than others. The study measured food-grade oil, not skin effects of aged oil. 31
Food-grade versus cosmetic-labelled oil. The sources read do not compare skin products and food olive oil or say whether cosmetic oil is checked as food. The 'extra virgin', 'refined' and 'light' grades have not been compared on skin in any source read. 2
| Body | Action | Date |
|---|---|---|
| NHS (United Kingdom) (United Kingdom) | Earwax build-up page (last reviewed 5 January 2024) lists olive or almond oil drops as a self-care option, advises not to use drops if the eardrum has a hole, and says to see a nurse if symptoms have not cleared after 5 days. source | 2024-01-05 |
| Indian Academy of Pediatrics (professional guideline) (India) | 2021 guideline prefers sunflower, coconut or mineral oil over olive oil and mustard oil for baby massage. source | 2021 |
| Poison Control (National Capital Poison Center, US) (United States) | Essential oils page says dilution in a carrier oil is the best way to avoid a bad skin reaction and that oils should not be used on damaged skin. It does not mention olive oil. source | undated |
When to get medical help
- Swelling of the face or lips, trouble breathing or widespread hives after using any oil blend: treat as an emergency and call emergency services.
- A child has swallowed an essential oil blend, even a little: call a poison centre or emergency services even if they seem well.
- Ear pain, discharge, sudden hearing loss or dizziness after ear drops: stop and see a doctor.
- A rash, burning or blistering after use: stop, wash the oil off and ask a pharmacist or doctor.
Stop using the product and contact a clinician or emergency service. In the US, Poison Control is 1-800-222-1222.
General information only, not medical advice. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before use, especially with medicines, in pregnancy or with a health condition. See the Natural Remedy Safety guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is olive oil good for skin?
Is olive oil safe for babies?
Can olive oil make eczema worse?
Does olive oil prevent stretch marks?
Can you be allergic to olive oil on the skin?
Is olive oil a safe way to clean ears?
Does it make essential oils safe to use on skin?
No. Poison Control says dilution in a carrier oil is the best way to avoid a bad reaction, but not all essential oils are meant for skin and none should go on damaged skin. A carrier does not fix an unsuitable oil.
Is extra virgin olive oil better than refined oil on skin?
Can olive oil be fake or mislabelled?
Does olive oil go rancid?
Yes. In a lab study, signs of breakdown rose significantly after seven months of storage, with differences between varieties. If it smells different, throw it away.
Does eating olive oil help the heart?
Explore by health goal
Editorial transparency
- Written by
- AlternativeMed editorial team. Research compiled with AI assistance, then checked against PubMed records.
- Medical review
- None. This page has not been reviewed by a physician or pharmacist.
- First published
- 2026-10-25
- Last substantive update
- 2026-10-25
- How we research
- We read PubMed abstracts of 32 papers, the full NHS and Poison Control pages, and checked the plant name in GBIF and NCBI Taxonomy and compounds in PubChem. Certainty ratings are the compiler's own reading. Funding is not stated in most abstracts; one emollient review lists a skin-care company as a funder. No study is cited that we could not verify.
- How we rate evidence
- See "How we rate evidence" in the Evidence tab.
- Independence
- No product is promoted on this page. No affiliate links are shown.
Sources 34
Each source was opened and checked. Where we read only the abstract, it says so. The small numbers in the text point here.
- Aaron K, Cooper TE, Warner L et al. Ear drops for the removal of ear wax.. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2018. PMID 30043448. DOI 10.1002/14651858.CD012171.pub2. (abstract)
- Abdalla S, Aroua MK, Gew LT. A Comprehensive Review of Plant-Based Cosmetic Oils (Virgin Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Argan Oil, and Jojoba Oil): Chemical and Biological Properties and Their Cosmeceutical Applications.. ACS Omega. 2024. PMID 39524627. DOI 10.1021/acsomega.4c04277. (abstract)
- Aksucu G, Azak M, Çağlar S. Effects of Topical Oils on Neonatal Skin: A Systematic Review.. Adv Skin Wound Care. 2022. PMID 36409192. DOI 10.1097/01.ASW.0000891088.69828.2e. (abstract)
- Almesmari MMS, Ilesanmi RE, Mohamed MG. Topical Application of Olive Oil in Preventing Pressure Injuries Among Hospitalized Patients with Mobility Limitations: A Cluster Randomized Trial in the United Arab Emirates.. Rev Recent Clin Trials. 2026. PMID 40626528. DOI 10.2174/0115748871363994250624201929. (abstract)
- Cooke A, Cork MJ, Victor S et al. Olive Oil, Sunflower Oil or no Oil for Baby Dry Skin or Massage: A Pilot, Assessor-blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial (the Oil in Baby SkincaRE [OBSeRvE] Study).. Acta Derm Venereol. 2016. PMID 26551528. DOI 10.2340/00015555-2279. (abstract)
- Cooke A, Bedwell C, Campbell M et al. Skin care for healthy babies at term: A systematic review of the evidence.. Midwifery. 2018. PMID 29055852. DOI 10.1016/j.midw.2017.10.001. (abstract)
- Danby SG, AlEnezi T, Sultan A et al. Effect of olive and sunflower seed oil on the adult skin barrier: implications for neonatal skin care.. Pediatr Dermatol. 2013. PMID 22995032. DOI 10.1111/j.1525-1470.2012.01865.x. (abstract)
- Díaz-Valenzuela A, García-Fernández FP, Carmona Fernández P et al. Effectiveness and safety of olive oil preparation for topical use in pressure ulcer prevention: Multicentre, controlled, randomised, and double-blinded clinical trial.. Int Wound J. 2019. PMID 31475465. DOI 10.1111/iwj.13191. (abstract)
- Emami N, Daniel SJ. Ototoxicity of olive oil in a chinchilla animal model.. Laryngoscope. 2013. PMID 23616417. DOI 10.1002/lary.24041. (abstract)
- Harlev A, Pariente G, Kessous R et al. Can we find the perfect oil to protect the perineum? A randomized-controlled double-blind trial.. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2013. PMID 23570446. DOI 10.3109/14767058.2013.784261. (abstract)
- Isaksson M, Bruze M. Occupational allergic contact dermatitis from olive oil in a masseur.. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1999. PMID 10426917. DOI 10.1016/s0190-9622(99)70372-5. (abstract)
- Jabraeile M, Rasooly AS, Farshi MR et al. Effect of olive oil massage on weight gain in preterm infants: A randomized controlled clinical trial.. Niger Med J. 2016. PMID 27397955. DOI 10.4103/0300-1652.184060. (abstract)
- Kakouri E, Revelou PK, Kanakis C et al. Authentication of the Botanical and Geographical Origin and Detection of Adulteration of Olive Oil Using Gas Chromatography, Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy Techniques: A Review.. Foods. 2021. PMID 34359435. DOI 10.3390/foods10071565. (abstract)
- Ke Y, Fan H, Zhao Y et al. Olive oil intake and cardiovascular disease, cancer, and all-cause mortality: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies.. Food Funct. 2024. PMID 38568797. DOI 10.1039/d3fo05246j. (abstract)
- Kelleher MM, Phillips R, Brown SJ et al. Skin care interventions in infants for preventing eczema and food allergy.. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2022. PMID 36373988. DOI 10.1002/14651858.CD013534.pub3. (abstract)
- Korgavkar K, Wang F. Stretch marks during pregnancy: a review of topical prevention.. Br J Dermatol. 2015. PMID 25255817. DOI 10.1111/bjd.13426. (abstract)
- Kränke B, Komericki P, Aberer W. Olive oil--contact sensitizer or irritant?. Contact Dermatitis. 1997. PMID 9034680. DOI 10.1111/j.1600-0536.1997.tb00914.x. (abstract)
- Madhu R, Vijayabhaskar C, Anandan V et al. Indian Academy of Pediatrics Guidelines for Pediatric Skin Care.. Indian Pediatr. 2021. PMID 33632947. (abstract)
- Maestrello V, Solovyev P, Bontempo L et al. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy in extra virgin olive oil authentication.. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf. 2022. PMID 35876303. DOI 10.1111/1541-4337.13005. (abstract)
- Martínez-González MA, Sayón-Orea C, Bullón-Vela V et al. Effect of olive oil consumption on cardiovascular disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and all-cause mortality: A systematic review and meta-analysis.. Clin Nutr. 2022. PMID 36343558. DOI 10.1016/j.clnu.2022.10.001. (abstract)
- Michaudet C, Malaty J. Cerumen Impaction: Diagnosis and Management.. Am Fam Physician. 2018. PMID 30277727. (abstract)
- NHS. NHS: Earwax build-up (page last reviewed 5 January 2024). NHS website. 2024. (full-text)
- National Capital Poison Center. Poison Control (National Capital Poison Center): Essential oils, poisonous when misused (undated). poison.org. 2026. (full-text)
- Poljšak N, Kočevar Glavač N. Vegetable Butters and Oils as Therapeutically and Cosmetically Active Ingredients for Dermal Use: A Review of Clinical Studies.. Front Pharmacol. 2022. PMID 35548366. DOI 10.3389/fphar.2022.868461. (abstract)
- Rubio-Santoyo A, Sanabria-de la Torre R, Montero-Vílchez T et al. Effects of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Petrolatum on Skin Barrier Function and Microtopography.. J Clin Med. 2025. PMID 40649050. DOI 10.3390/jcm14134675. (abstract)
- Rus-Vega C, Vilar-Palomo S. Effectiveness of Olive Oil and Hyperoxygenated Fatty Acids for the Prevention of Pressure Injuries: A Systematic Review.. Adv Skin Wound Care. 2026. PMID 40853126. DOI 10.1097/ASW.0000000000000344. (abstract)
- Solt Kırca A, Kanza Gül D. Effects of Olive Oil on Striae Gravidarum in Primiparous Women: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Study.. Altern Ther Health Med. 2022. PMID 34559686. (abstract)
- Soltanipoor F, Delaram M, Taavoni S et al. The effect of olive oil on prevention of striae gravidarum: a randomized controlled clinical trial.. Complement Ther Med. 2012. PMID 22863639. DOI 10.1016/j.ctim.2012.05.001. (abstract)
- Soltanipour F, Delaram M, Taavoni S et al. The effect of olive oil and the Saj® cream in prevention of striae gravidarum: A randomized controlled clinical trial.. Complement Ther Med. 2014. PMID 24731892. DOI 10.1016/j.ctim.2013.11.011. (abstract)
- Taavoni S, Soltanipour F, Haghani H et al. Effects of olive oil on striae gravidarum in the second trimester of pregnancy.. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2011. PMID 21742284. DOI 10.1016/j.ctcp.2010.10.003. (abstract)
- Vendrell Calatayud M, Li X, Brizzolara S et al. Storage effect on olive oil phenols: cultivar-specific responses.. Front Nutr. 2024. PMID 39077155. DOI 10.3389/fnut.2024.1382551. (abstract)
- Wollenberg A, Barbarot S, Torrelo A. Basic Emollients for Xerosis Cutis in Atopic Dermatitis: A Review of Clinical Studies.. Int J Dermatol. 2025. PMID 40265493. DOI 10.1111/ijd.17793. (abstract)
- Zou X, Liu H. Cardiovascular, Metabolic and Endocrine, Cancer, Mortality, Derma, and Other Outcomes of Olive Oil and Oleic Acid: An Umbrella Review.. Food Sci Nutr. 2025. PMID 41142012. DOI 10.1002/fsn3.71115. (abstract)
- n/a. GBIF Backbone Taxonomy: Olea europaea L. (species match API); NCBI Taxonomy id 4146. n/a. 2026. (database)
Where to buy
Check the label first. Whatever you buy, look for these:
- The botanical (Latin) name on the label and 100% pure oil
- A dark glass bottle and a batch number
- Essential oils are strong: dilute for skin, and do not swallow unless a qualified professional directs it
- Keep away from children and pets
Talk to a pharmacist or doctor before you start any supplement, especially if you take medicines. See the Safety tab for interactions.
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