 |
Topical use of olive oil to treat dermatological diseases: A systematic review
Shangyi Fu1, Zachrieh Alhaj
2,3, Gengi Kleto3, Princess Anih3, Bethel Desta3, Delayne Coleman3, Karina Chowdhury3, Michel Adeniran3, Samsudeen Iyamah3, Vivian Rojas3, Melissa Marchan-Martinez3, Victoria Katei3, Ki Rim Kim4, Karen Q Zheng4, Jessica He5, Tanmay Srinivasan4, Crisy Abraham1, Sophia Fu6, Danny Hunyh7
1School of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA, 2Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA, 3John Sealy School of Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA, 4Department of Bioscience, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA, 5Department of Kinesiology, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA, 6Khoury College of Computer Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA, 7Software Engineering, Pacifi c Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, USA
Citation tools:
Copyright information
© Our Dermatology Online 2025. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by Our Dermatology Online.
ABSTRACT
Background: Oleae europaea (olive tree) and its derivatives have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, including skin conditions. This systematic review summarizes the current literature on the topical effects of O. europaea derivatives on skin.
Methods: A comprehensive search of the PubMed database was conducted using 36 search terms. Studies were included if they met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and analyzed for their content.
Results: 21 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most studies reported positive outcomes, indicating that O. europaea derivatives have a wide range of potential therapeutic uses for skin, including wound healing, dermatitis management, prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers and skin cancers, improvement of epidermal barrier function, relief from pruritus, and reduction of friction between the skin and personal protective equipment.
Discussion: Several limitations were identified across the reviewed studies, including limited sample sizes in some cases, a lack of control groups in certain trials, and variability in the quality of evidence. Despite the limitations, this review provides evidence to support the use of O. europaea derivatives as a safe and effective treatment for a variety of skin conditions.
Conclusion: O. europaea and its derivatives have the potential to improve the outcomes and experiences of numerous dermatological patients soon.
Key words: Oleae europaea, Topical treatments, Wound healing, Dermatitis management, Complementary and alternative medicine
INTRODUCTION
With over 600 species, Oleacae is a taxonomic family comprising over 30 genera of deciduous trees and shrubs and grow best in the tropical and temperate regions of Asia and Malaysia. Olea europaea is the most notable of the genus, popularly consumed across various regions and has been widely implicated in a number of traditional and contemporary ailments, including dermatological disorders [1–4].
While widely used for human consumption, O. europaea has been recognized for its therapeutic properties in traditional medicine and has been used to treat various ailments, most notably hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, diarrhea, and respiratory and urinary tract infections. It has also been used as treatment for stomach and intestinal diseases, asthma, hemorrhoids, rheumatism, laxative, mouth cleanser, as a vasodilator, and to reduce inflammation [5].
O. europaea extracts are primarily composed of phenolic compounds, represented by phenolic alcohols hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, and secoiridoids, which include oleocanthal, oleacein, oleuropein, and ligstroside [3]. These compounds have been the focus of attraction for many scientists due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative properties [3,6]. Oleuropein, the main component of olive oil and olive leaf extract, has been particularly studied because of a variety of reported health benefits including cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-angiogenic, and neuroprotective function [7]. Oral gavage of olive oil has been shown to decrease inflammatory response and oxidative damage in pressure ulcers by accelerating ROS and NO synthesis in vivo [4]. Decreased aging has been found in mechanistic studies displaying increased autophagy activation in beta amyloid deposition rat models fed with oleuropein aglycon, a derivative of O. europaea [8]. The anti-aging and healing effects of O. europaea have prompted further insight to their potential in skincare.
O. europaea extracts have been used in contemporary medicine for prevention of dermatological ailments and promotion of skin health. Oleuropein extract has been shown to accelerate skin wound healing in aged male mice via increased collagen fiber deposition and reduce cell infiltration in wound sites [9]. Super virgin olive oil was found to significantly reduce the number of skin cancers when topically applied immediately after UVB radiation [2]. Uvaol, a natural pentacyclic triterpene widely found in olives and virgin olive oil, has also been found to stimulate endothelial cell growth and promote fibroblast function in vitro and in vivo [1].
There are currently various products on the market containing O. europaea derivatives, all containing marketing claims that may not be validated by current literature. According to INCI Decoder, there are over 100 olive containing products including skin creams, serums, and toners as of December 2022 currently on the market [10]. These products have been marketed under various claims including “skin rescuing” [11], “reparative” [12–14], “hydrating” [11–13], and “anti-aging” [11,12,15]. Companies describe it to “enhance collagen,” “absorbs into skin quicker,” “reduced trans-epidermal water loss” and provide “environmental protection” [14]. Current claims like this warrant further investigation to determine their validity.
Fortune Business Insights projects an economic increase in the skincare market, worth around 100.13 billion USD in 2021 to 145.82 billion USD by 2028 [16]. This sets the environment for further promotion of skincare products, many including O. europaea based products. With the extensive unsubstantiated claims in the current market, false advertising may be further promoted in the following years. We consolidated current literature on the topical effects of O. europaea-based products to determine the validity of their use in modern commercial skincare products.
In this paper, we gathered all current publications regarding the topical effects of derivatives and performed a systematic review on its cosmetic effects on the skin, including treatment of dermatologic diseases. We addressed both harmful and beneficial effects on the skin, and the limitations of each study to promote informed consumer decisions.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Created using boolean operators, 36 possible search terms were used to search on Pubmed, as of July 4th, 2022 (Table 1). Literature from the search results is collected, and duplicates were removed. Inclusion criteria included clinical trials measuring the topical use of olive derivatives (including but not limited to oils, essential oils, extracts, pumices, oxidized) on the skin, hair, nails, and other dermatological features in vivo, including human only, published at any point in time, by itself or in combination with other variables. Exclusion criteria included trials without a control; trials that mainly focused on in vitro and ex vivo results; trials that mainly focused on histological parameters; trials that used olive oil as mainly a vehicle; reviews or any publications that do not present any original data; commentaries, editorials, and reviews that did not present any original data; and articles not written in English.
This method produced 439 unique papers. The abstracts were then reviewed to determine relevant papers, and irrelevant articles were taken out of the final line-up. As a result, 63 final papers fit the exclusion and inclusion criteria.
These publications were then read and parsed for their content, and how they fit their inclusion and exclusion criteria, leading to a final 21 papers. Different data points were collected from these publications, shown in Table 2.
 |
Table 2: Compiled and organized collected data from 21 papers resulted from the systematic review of literature from Pubmed. |
Figure 1 shows a visual representation of the paper and data collection discussed here.
RESULTS
Types of Publications
A total of 21 papers were included in the literature review that fit the inclusion criteria. The study designs of these publications include multi-center, randomized, single, double, and triple-blind clinical trials, basic science experiments, animal trials, randomized controlled clinical trials, comparative studies, quasi-experimental pilot studies, and non-randomized clinical trials.
The maximum sample size was 571 patients using olive oil as a preventative method for pressure ulcers. All the studies, but one, reported no adverse effects; the one reported study found erythema at the sites treated using olive oil. Only one study found that the skin condition did not improve upon usage of olive oil (Table 2).
Ulcers, Including Pressure Ulcers and Skin Ulcers
One publication describes a randomized, multicenter, double-blind clinical trial that compared the efficacy of olive oil and hyperoxygenated fatty acids (HOFAs) for preventing pressure ulcers in at-risk populations, specifically among nursing home residents [17]. The trial lasted 30 days or until the onset of a pressure ulcer, and neither group received a vehicle-based placebo. The products were packaged identically by a pharmaceutical company and coded to conceal their identity. Of the 29 patients who developed PUs during follow-up, 18 were in the HOFA group, and 11 were in the olive group. The incidence of PUs was 6.7% in the HOFA group and 4.18% in the Olive group, with no adverse effects reported in the olive group and only one case of skin rash and itching reported in the HOFA group (Table 2).
Miraj et al. describe a randomized single-blind controlled trial that investigates the effect of the topical application of olive oil on preventing the development of pressure ulcer grade [18]. Seventy-two patients with stage one bedsores and no history of skin disease or allergy were divided into two groups: control and intervention (receiving olive oil). In the intervention group, olive oil was applied once daily for seven days to the wounded area, while in the control group, no intervention was made. The pressure ulcer scale for healing (PUSH) tool was used to assess ulcer healing status on the first, fourth, and seventh days. On the fourth and seventh days, the olive oil group showed a lower PUSH score and statistically significant improvement in ulcer healing status (p <0.001) compared to the control group. No change was observed in the control group (Table 2).
Dermatitis, Including Radiation-Induced Dermatitis, Atopic Dermatitis, Contact Dermatitis, Psoriasiform Dermatitis, and Diaper Dermatitis
Koukourakis et al. describe a prospective open-label clinical trial evaluating the efficacy of a natural herbal formulation in preventing radiation-induced dermatitis in individuals undergoing radiation therapy of the head, neck, or breast [19]. The formulation included a cream, ointment, and shower gel, all containing a combination of olive oil, beeswax, calendula and hypericum oils, and aloe gel. No placebo was used. Of the 59 subjects in the trial, 24 remained in grade 1 toxicity throughout the study, with a statistically significant prophylactic effect observed for breast and head/neck radiation therapy (P<0.0001 and P=0.015, respectively). Quality of life was also assessed through a survey, with 94.9% of subjects reporting no effect in week 1. This number was reduced to 66.1% by the end of the study, with 15.2% noting a small effect. The products scored well in relieving itching, burning, and irritation (Table 2).
Cooke et al. describe an assessor-blinded, randomized, controlled trial examining the effect of topical oils on infant skin in the development of atopic dermatitis [20]. One hundred and fifteen full-term neonates were randomly assigned to receive olive oil, sunflower oil, or no oil application twice a day for four weeks. No placebo group was used. Parents applied four drops of oil to the left arm, left thigh, and abdomen of their infant, while the control group received no application. Both oil groups showed statistically significant improvement in hydration, and lipid lamellae structure showed less improvement than the control group. No significant changes were observed in the scores of TEWL, pH, or erythema/skin. More research is required to recommend the use of oils on neonatal skin confidently (Table 2).
Panahi et al. describe a randomized, double-blind clinical trial comparing the efficacy of Olivederma, a combination of virgin olive oil and aloe vera, to betamethasone on quality of life, serum IgE levels, eosinophil count, and disease severity in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) [21]. 36 patients with AD were treated for 6 weeks with either Olivederma or betamethasone, without the use of placebos. Both treatments resulted in a statistically significant decrease in AD severity, with Olivederma showing a greater improvement (64.5% vs. 13.5%, p < 0.001). AD patients treated with Olivederma also had a significant improvement in quality of life (60.7%, p < 0.001), compared to betamethasone (22.3%, p < 0.001). After 6 weeks, Olivederma led to a significant decrease in serum IgE and eosinophil count.
Sharifi-Heris et al. report a triple-blind randomized clinical trial investigating the impact of topically applied olive and calendula ointments on children with diaper dermatitis (DD) [22]. 73 healthy children under the age of 2 with non-infected and non-severe diaper dermatitis (DD) were assigned to receive either 1.5% olive ointment or 1.5% calendula ointment using a random block method with a 2:2 ratio over 7 days. No placebos were used. Results showed no statistically significant difference between the groups in any demographic or baseline characteristic and no statistically significant difference in the improvement of DD on days 0, 3, 5, and 7 of the intervention (p > 0.05) (Table 2).
Cui et al. describe a randomized, controlled, double-blind trial evaluating the efficacy of topical olive oil in preventing acute radiodermatitis in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy [23]. Forty-seven patients were divided into two groups: prophylactic and control. The prophylactic group received thrice-daily olive oil treatment for nine weeks, while the control group received a general skin care regimen and water as a placebo. Radiodermatitis severity was assessed using the graded scale from the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Results showed that olive oil statistically significantly reduced dermatitis severity and skin injuries compared to placebo treatment (p< 0.01). Mild reactions to radiation were observed in 44/47 patients in the prophylactic group compared to 34 patients in the control group, while severe reactions were observed in 3/47 and 13/47 patients in those same groups, respectively. Improvement of symptoms upon radiotherapy termination was observed in 35/47 patients in the prophylactic group compared to 22/47 patients in the control group (Table 2).
Treating Striae gravidarum
Taavoni et al. describe a randomized controlled clinical trial conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of olive oil in reducing the occurrence of striae gravidarum (SG) during the second trimester of pregnancy [24]. Human subjects were divided into an experimental and control group, with women in the experimental group applying olive oil to their abdominal skin twice daily. Women in the control group did not use any oil. After 8 weeks, results showed SG occurred in 40% of the women in the experimental group and 50% of women in the control group. The use of olive oil did not yield any statistical significance in the occurrence of SG compared to the control (Table 2).
Soltanipour et al. describe a parallel randomized controlled clinical trial comparing the efficacy of olive oil and Saj(®) cream (Iranian cream made of lanolin, stearin, triethanolamine, almond oil, and bizovax glycerin amidine) in preventing and reducing striae gravidarum [25]. The study included 150 nulliparous women in their second trimester of pregnancy who were randomly assigned to either an olive oil, Saj (®) cream, or a control group. Striae gravidarum occurred in 72% of the participants in the olive oil group, with 32%, 26%, and 6% of them being mild, moderate, and severe, respectively. For those who used Saj (®) cream, striae occurred in 64% of the cases, with 16%, 34%, and 14% being mild, moderate, and severe, respectively. In the control group, striae occurred in 60% of the participants, with 22%, 24%, and 14% being mild, moderate, and severe, respectively. The incidence and severity of striae did not show any statistically significant differences among the three groups (Table 2).
Soltanipoor et al. describe a randomized control trial evaluating the effectiveness of olive oil in preventing striae gravidarum (SG) in pregnant women [26]. A hundred nulliparous pregnant women were allocated into two groups, with one receiving topical olive oil twice daily on the abdomen until delivery (approximately 22 weeks) and the other serving as a control group (no treatment). Results found no statistical significance between the two group’s incidence and severity, with SG appearing in 64% of the olive oil-treated group and 60% of the control group (Table 2).
Bielfeldt et al. report a randomized controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of plant-based body oil, enriched with oleic and linoleic acids, in improving the appearance of scars and striae [27]. In this 8-week randomized controlled trial, 80 human test subjects with non-hypertrophic scars (40) or stretch marks (40) not older than 3 years applied a plant body oil rich in oleic and linoleic acids. Treated areas showed a statistically significant mean reduction of 5% on the Observer Scar Assessment Scale (OSAS) (P=0.0006), while the untreated areas remained unchanged. The Patient Scar Assessment Scale (PSAS) gave a 20% reduction for the treated area and 6% for the control area. The overall product effect was 14% (p=0.0001), and most volunteers reported beneficial effects of the test agent, while only 17% reported no effect (Table 2).
Treating Inflammation
Currò et al. describe an observational study investigating the effects of OZOILE®, a formulation of ozonated olive oil with vitamin E acetate, on the inflammatory status and tissue remodeling in 30 male children with Balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO) [28]. Fifteen patients with BXO were treated with OZOILE® cream once a day for 7 days before circumcision and compared to a control group of fifteen age-matched patients with BXO without treatment. After 7 days of treatment, a significant reduction in mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1B, TNF-a, INF-y, transglutaminase 2, and NOS2) was observed in foreskin tissues treated with OZOILE compared to untreated ones (p<0.001). No statistically significant differences were observed in NF-κB activation. OZOILE treatment up-regulated HIF-1alpha, VEGF, and E-cadherin gene expression (p < 0.001) (Table 2).
Palacios et al. describe a quasi-experiment evaluating the topical efficacy of an oily fluid enriched with oleocanthal (OC) extract from extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) to a conventional oily fluid in reducing inflammation following conventional photodynamic therapy (PDT) of actinic keratosis [29]. The study included 47 patients, with 23 receiving the oleocanthal-enriched fluid and 24 receiving the conventional fluid. After 48 hours, patients in the oleocanthal group had significantly reduced inflammation and a higher likelihood of complete response at three months (60.9% vs. 29.2%). Both groups reported similar levels of pain and had no statistically significant differences in baseline characteristics (Table 2).
Akarsu et al. describe a single-blind vehicle-controlled study evaluating the impact of topical petrolatum, basis cream, glycerine, and olive oil on the minimal phototoxic dose (MPD) of psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) in 29 volunteers diagnosed with psoriasis, lichen planus, parapsoriasis, mycosis fungoides, and vitiligo prior to their PUVA therapy [30]. The study found a statistically significant increase in the mean MPD values with the application of white petrolatum compared to pure PUVA (p = 0.011). There was no significant change in the mean MPD values after the application of basis cream (p = 0.326), glycerine (p = 0.611), or olive oil (p = 0.799). No placebo was used in the study (Table 2).
Verallo-Rowell et al. describe a double-blind controlled trial aimed at comparing the effectiveness of virgin coconut oil (VCO) and virgin olive oil (VOO) in moisturizing dry skin and removing Staphylococcus aureus (SA) from the colonized skin of individuals with atopic dermatitis (AD) [31]. In this trial, 52 subjects from two outpatient dermatology clinics received either VCO or VOO topically for 4 weeks. Of the 20 patients whose SA cultures were positive and randomized to use VCO, only one patient remained positive, compared to 6 patients who remained positive among the 12 patients using VOO. The relative risk of nontreatment for VCO was 0.10, while that of VOO was 10 times higher. The calculated absolute risk was -0.45. There was no significant difference in objective-SCORAD severity index (O-SSI) scores between the two groups at baseline, but the post-intervention scores showed a statistically significant difference (p = 0.004). The reduction in O-SSI score and in vitro broad-spectrum activity against SA, fungi, and viruses by VCO and monolaurin suggest potential use as a treatment for AD colonization (Table 2).
Danby et al. describe a randomized control trial exploring the effect of sunflower oil and olive oil on the biophysical characteristics of the skin in 19 adult volunteers with and without atopic dermatitis [32]. The first cohort applied olive oil to one forearm twice daily for 5 weeks, while the second cohort applied olive oil to one forearm and sunflower seed oil to the other twice daily for 4 weeks. The findings of this study revealed that topical application of olive oil resulted in a significant reduction in stratum corneum (SC) thickness and integrity and induced mild erythema in volunteers with and without a history of AD, without any notable improvement in SC hydration. The most statistically significant difference was seen in volunteers with AD, where olive oil exacerbated the defective skin barrier, likely due to the excess of monounsaturated fatty acids (OA). These findings challenge the common recommendation of olive oil for skin care (Table 2).
Use as a Moisturizing Agent
Kiechl-Kohlendorfer et al. describe a randomized controlled trial aimed at comparing the effects of two different topical ointment therapies on infant skin [33]. One hundred and seventy-three neonates between 25- and 35-weeks’ gestation were randomly assigned to group A (Bepanthen® [water-in-oil emollient cream]), group B (olive oil), or group C (control). Skin therapy was applied twice a day for a maximum of 4 weeks, and measurements were taken at baseline, day 7, day 14, day 21, and day 28. Results showed that neonates treated with olive oil cream had statistically less dermatitis than those treated with emollient cream. Moreover, both the emollient cream and the olive oil showed better outcomes than the control group (p<0.001) in weeks 2-4 (Table 2).
Treating Fissures, Burns, and Pruritus
Cordero et al. describe a randomized, prospective experimental study evaluating the efficacy of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) in preventing nipple cracking among lactating women [34]. 300 women were randomly assigned to either group 1 (n=150), in which EVOO was topically applied to the nipple after breastfeeding, or to the control group 2 (n=150), in which drops of breast milk were applied. The occurrence of nipple cracking was statistically significantly lower in the EVOO group (2.7%) than in the control group (44.0%), with a quantitative efficacy of 97.3%. The application of EVOO was found to be safe for both mothers and newborns and was effective even when breastfeeding posture was inadequate (Table 2).
Al-Waili et al. describe a comparative study evaluating the therapeutic effect of a mixture of honey, olive oil, and beeswax in a 1:1:1 ratio for the treatment of anal fissures or hemorrhoids [35]. 15 patients with anal fissures or hemorrhoids topically applied the mixture to the affected skin twice daily. Results showed that in patients with hemorrhoids, the mixture provided effective pain relief within a week, with complete pain relief achieved in three weeks. Additionally, the mixture significantly reduced bleeding in all patients except for two with mild bleeding, reduction in itchiness, and resolution of erythema and edema (p <0.05). Notably, two patients with third-degree hemorrhoids experienced improvement without surgery. Patients with anal fissures also had statistically significantly reduced pain, bleeding, and itching, with signs of healing in four weeks. No side effects or complications were reported (Table 2).
Panahi et al. present a randomized, double-blind clinical trial conducted with the aim of determining if a combination cream of olive oil and aloe vera was more effective than betamethasone 0.1% cream for treating chronic pruritus lesions caused by sulfur mustard toxic exposure [36]. Sixty-seven Iranian chemical warfare-injured veterans exposed to mustard gas were included in the study. Thirty-four were randomly assigned to the olive oil/aloe vera group, while thirty-three were assigned to the betamethasone group. Both groups applied the cream twice daily for six weeks. A pruritic score questionnaire and visual analog scale (VAS) were used to evaluate the results. Both treatment groups showed a significant decrease in mean pruritus score and mean VAS score (p < 0.01 in the olive oil/aloe vera group and p < 0.005 in the betamethasone group), with no significant difference between the two groups. However, the olive oil/aloe vera group showed an additional statistically significant reduction in fissure and excoriation (p < 0.05) (Table 2).
Use for Friction Reduction
Yap et al. describe a randomized controlled trial aimed at identifying the optimal wax-oil combination for developing a lubricant that reduces friction (shear) between the skin and personal protective equipment (PPE) for a duration of up to 4 hours [37]. Four wax-oil lubricant mixtures, namely paraffin wax-olive oil, paraffin wax-mineral oil, beeswax-olive oil, and beeswax-mineral oil, were tested on seven participants between the ages of 23-28. Results indicated that the beeswax-olive oil lubricant resulted in a 44% reduction in the CoF after 4 hours compared to unlubricated skin (p=0.003) while the beeswax-mineral oil lubricant had the lowest coefficient of friction (CoF) (85% lower than unlubricated skin) immediately after application (p <0.0001). Among all the tested combinations, the beeswax-olive oil-mineral oil mixture exhibited the lowest friction, resulting in an 87% reduction in coefficient of friction immediately after application (p = 0.0006) and a 59% reduction after 4 hours (p = 0.0015) when compared to the unlubricated skin (Table 2).
DISCUSSION
This review synthesized the current literature on the topical effects of O. europaea derivatives, encompassing only human studies. We addressed the human studies, summarized the limitations, highlighted the most substantiated uses of olive, and discussed future directions. Among the included papers, a total of 21 studies met our inclusion criteria. These encompassed a range of study designs, from clinical trials to basic science experiments, animal trials, and more. Notably, many of these studies reported positive outcomes, with only a few exceptions. Several limitations were identified across the reviewed studies. These included limited sample sizes in some cases, a lack of control groups in certain trials, and variability in the quality of evidence. In addition, there were seven studies that tested products that consisted of olive oil derivatives in addition to other ingredients that were not derived from olive oil [19,21,27,28,33,35,36]. The most common ingredients that were present in these mixtures include aloe vera and other oily substances, such as lanolin and vitamin E acetate. Aloe vera has been implicated in treating multiple dermatological conditions, including enhanced skin permeation, anti-inflammatory effects, wound healing, moisture retention, and burn healing [38,39]. Similarly, beeswax, honey, and calendula also promote skin barrier protection [40–42], and even serve as prevention for many skin conditions such as radiation dermatitis [43], skin aging [44], and wound care [45]. Lanolin and vitamin E acetate also have skin protective, skin softening, and moisturizing properties [46,47], however they are both highly allergenic especially topically in inducing allergic contact dermatitis [48–50]. Other plant-derived ingredients such as safflower oil are also found to be useful in enhancing cosmetic effects on the skin [51]. These ingredients might add to the beneficial properties of the treatment solution with its supplementation thus potentially skewing the results shown in these studies. Additional research is needed to separate the effects of olive oil compared to the compounds added. These limitations should be considered when interpreting the results.
Our review identified a wide array of potential therapeutic uses for olive derivatives. These include wound healing, particularly in cases of ulcers, burns, and skin injuries, dermatitis management, including radiation-induced dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, psoriasiform dermatitis, and diaper dermatitis, prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers and skin cancers, improvement of epidermal barrier function in some cases, relief from pruritus and chronic pruritus lesions, reduction of friction between the skin and personal protective equipment.
With its wide set of uses and high prevalence especially in lower socioeconomic countries, it can serve as an accessible treatment for multiple skin ailments that has a low risk of side effects and a high efficacy rate. Lack of training needed to administer this as a skin treatment adds to its versatility and can allow widespread administration of treatment without a licensed professional, adding to its use as a home remedy.
Given the promising findings in many studies, there is ample room for further research and exploration in the field of olive derivatives. Future investigations should strive to conduct larger-scale human trials to strengthen the evidence base, address the limitations of previous studies, explore additional applications of olive derivatives in skincare and dermatology, investigate the potential for olive-based formulations to serve as safe and effective alternatives to traditional treatments, and assess the long-term effects and safety profiles of these treatments.
CONCLUSION
O. europaea and its derivatives are effective in treating a multitude of skin conditions. This systematic review found that O. europaea derivatives can successfully reduce, prevent, or treat various conditions ranging from ulcers to pruritus. The use of O. europaea extracts is noted to be safe as the studies reviewed found almost no adverse effects, except for one. Additional research should be done to ensure that the use of O. europaea as a therapeutic agent will be beneficial to patients before being implemented for use to treat a multitude of conditions. The use of O. europaea has the potential to improve the outcomes and experiences of numerous dermatological patients soon.
Statement of Human and Animal Rights
All the procedures followed were in accordance with the ethical standards of the responsible committee on human experimentation (institutional and national) and with the 2008 revision of the Declaration of Helsinki of 1975.
REFERENCES
1. Carmo J, Cavalcante-Araújo P, Silva J, Ferro J, Correia AC, Lagente V, et al. Uvaol improves the functioning of fibroblasts and endothelial cells and accelerates the healing of cutaneous wounds in mice. Molecules. 2020;25:4982.
2. Ichihashi M, Ahmed NU, Budiyanto A, Wu A, Bito T, Ueda M, et al. Preventive effect of antioxidant on ultraviolet-induced skin cancer in mice. J Dermatol Sci. 2000;23 Suppl 1:S45-S50.
3. Emma MR, Augello G, Di Stefano V, Azzolina A, Giannitrapani L, Montalto G, et al. Potential uses of olive oil secoiridoids for the prevention and treatment of cancer:a narrative review of preclinical Studies. Int J Mol Sci. 2021;22:1234.
4. Donato-Trancoso A, Monte-Alto-Costa A, Romana-Souza B. Olive oil-induced reduction of oxidative damage and inflammation promotes wound healing of pressure ulcers in mice. J Dermatol Sci. 2016;83:60-9.
5. Hashmi MA, Khan A, Hanif M, Farooq U, Perveen S. Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and pharmacology of olea europaea (olive). Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2015;2015:541591.
6. Viljoen A, Mncwangi N, Vermaak I. Anti-inflammatory iridoids of botanical origin. Curr Med Chem. 2012;19:2104-27.
7. Sun W, Frost B, Liu J. Oleuropein, unexpected benefits!. Oncotarget. 2017;8:17409.
8. Rigacci S, Miceli C, Nediani C, Berti A, Cascella R, Pantano D, et al. Oleuropein aglycone induces autophagy via the AMPK/mTOR signalling pathway:a mechanistic insight. Oncotarget. 2015;6:35344-57.
9. Mehraein F, Sarbishegi M, Aslani A. Evaluation of effect of oleuropein on skin wound healing in aged male BALB/c mice. Cell J. 2014;16:25-30.
10. Search results – Olive. Incidecoder.com. Published 2024. Accessed September 8, 2024. https://incidecoder.com/search?query=Olive
11. Epicuren ORAC Age-Protect Serum. Advanced Skin Care Day Spa. Published 2020. Accessed September 8, 2024. https://advancedspa.com/products/epicuren-orac-age-protect-serum?variant=39391036309677¤cy=USD&amp;amp;amp;utm_medium=product_sync&amp;amp;amp;utm_source=google&amp;amp;amp;utm_content=sag_organic&amp;amp;amp;utm_campaign=sag_organic&amp;amp;amp;utm_campaign=gs-2020-11-02&amp;amp;amp;utm_source=google&amp;amp;amp;utm_medium=smart_campaign
12. CeraQuench Retinol Rich Cream. @Face Theory. Published 2024. Accessed September 8, 2024. https://us.facetheory.com/products/ceraquench-ceramide-cream?utm_source=google&amp;amp;amp;utm_medium=cpc&amp;amp;amp;utm_campaign=S_-_US_-_Products&amp;amp;amp;gclid=CjwKCAiAhqCdBhB0EiwAH8M_GhKkYlc62_Ev_Ms_5q32QwayEFJFsMWbEdE4E5-A1hKUq2AVTG7zFxoChxoQAvD_BwE
13. Night Switch Essential Lipids |Hydrating Skincare |lixirskin |lixirskin. lixirskin.co.uk. https://lixirskin.co.uk/products/night-switch-essential-lipids
14. Serum R. Collagen Repair Serum 30ml. Dr Meso. Published 2020. Accessed September 8, 2024. https://www.drmeso.com/products/collagen-serum
15. L300 Anti-age Hyaluronic Renewal Eye Cream 15 ml. BEAUTY OF SCANDINAVIAN. Published 2019. Accessed September 8, 2024. https://www.beautyofscandinavian.com/store/p297/L300_Anti-16. Fortune Business Insights. Skincare market size, analysis |skin care industry trends, 2026. www.fortunebusinessinsights.com. Published June 2023. https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/skin-care-market-102544
16. Díaz-Valenzuela A, García-Fernández FP, Carmona Fernández P, Valle Cañete MJ, Pancorbo-Hidalgo PL. 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;16:1314-22.
17. Miraj S, Pourafzali S, Ahmadabadi ZV, Rafiei Z. Effect of olive oil in preventing the development of pressure ulcer grade one in intensive care unit patients. Int J Prev Med. 2020;11:23.
18. Koukourakis G, Pissakas G, Ganos CG, Sivolapenko G, Kardamakis D. effectiveness and tolerability of natural herbal formulations in the prevention of radiation-induced skin toxicity in patients undergoing radiotherapy. Int J Low Extrem Wounds. 2022;21:75-86.
19. Cooke A, Cork MJ, Victor S, Campbell M, Danby S, Chittock J, 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;96:323-30.
20. Panahi Y, Rastgar N, Zamani A, Sahebkar A. Comparing the therapeutic effects of aloe vera and olive oil combination cream versus topical betamethasone for atopic dermatitis:a randomized double-blind clinical trial. J Pharmacopuncture. 2020;23:173-8.
21. Sharifi-Heris Z, Farahani LA, Haghani H, Abdoli-Oskouee S, Hasanpoor-Azghady SB. Comparison the effects of topical application of olive and calendula ointments on Children’s diaper dermatitis:A triple-blind randomized clinical trial. Dermatol Ther. 2018;31:e12731.
22. Cui Z, Xin M, Yin H, Zhang J, Han F. Topical use of olive oil preparation to prevent radiodermatitis:results of a prospective study in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients. Int J Clin Exp Med. 2015;8:11000-6.
23. Taavoni S, Soltanipour F, Haghani H, Ansarian H, Kheirkhah M. Effects of olive oil on striae gravidarum in the second trimester of pregnancy. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2011;17:167-9.
24. Soltanipour F, Delaram M, Taavoni S, Haghani H. The effect of olive oil and the Saj®cream in prevention of striae gravidarum:A randomized controlled clinical trial. Complement Ther Med. 2014;22:220-5.
25. Soltanipoor F, Delaram M, Taavoni S, Haghani H. The effect of olive oil on prevention of striae gravidarum:a randomized controlled clinical trial. Complement Ther Med. 2012;20:263-6.
26. Bielfeldt S, Blaak J, Staib P, Simon I, Wohlfart R, Manger C, et al. Observer-blind randomized controlled study of a cosmetic blend of safflower, olive and other plant oils in the improvement of scar and striae appearance. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2018;40:81-6.
27. CurròM, Russo T, Ferlazzo N, Caccamo D, Antonuccio P, Arena S, et al. Anti-Inflammatory and tissue regenerative effects of topical treatment with ozonated olive oil/vitamin e acetate in balanitis xerotica obliterans. Molecules. 2018;23:645.
28. Segura Palacios JM, Blázquez Sánchez N, Rivas Ruiz F, Bernier MA, López BR, Fernández Sánchez ME, et al. Topical treatment with oleocanthal extract in reducing inflammatory reactions after photodynamic therapy:a prospective quasi-experimental pilot study. Complement Ther Med. 2019;42:298-301.
29. Akarsu S, Fetil E, Ozbagcivan O, Gunes AT. Blocking or enhancing effects of some basic emollients in UVA penetration. An Bras Dermatol. 2018;93:238-41.
30. Verallo-Rowell VM, Dillague KM, Syah-Tjundawan BS. Novel antibacterial and emollient effects of coconut and virgin olive oils in adult atopic dermatitis. Dermatitis. 2008;19:308-15.
31. Danby SG, AlEnezi T, Sultan A, Chittock J, Brown K, Cork MJ. Effect of olive and sunflower seed oil on the adult skin barrier:implications for neonatal skin care. Pediatr Dermatol. 2013;30:42-50.
32. Kiechl-Kohlendorfer U, Berger C, Inzinger R. The effect of daily treatment with an olive oil/lanolin emollient on skin integrity in preterm infants:a randomized controlled trial. Pediatr Dermatol. 2008;25:174-8.
33. Cordero MJ, Villar NM, Barrilao RG, Cortés ME, López AM. Application of Extra Virgin Olive Oil to prevent nipple cracking in lactating women. Worldviews Evid Based Nurs. 2015;12: 364-9.
34. Al-Waili NS, Saloom KS, Al-Waili TN, Al-Waili AN. The safety and efficacy of a mixture of honey, olive oil, and beeswax for the management of hemorrhoids and anal fissure:a pilot study. Scien World J. 2006;6:1998-2005.
35. Panahi Y, Davoudi SM, Sahebkar A, Beiraghdar F, Dadjo Y, Feizi I, et al. Efficacy of Aloe vera/olive oil cream versus betamethasone cream for chronic skin lesions following sulfur mustard exposure:a randomized double-blind clinical trial. Cutan Ocul Toxicol. 2012;31:95-103.
36. Yap KK, Murali M, Tan Z, Zhou X, Li L, Masen MA. Wax-oil lubricants to reduce the shear between skin and PPE. Sci Rep. 2021;11:11537.
37. Hekmatpou D, Mehrabi F, Rahzani K, Aminiyan A. The effect of aloe vera clinical trials on prevention and healing of skin wound:a systematic review. Iran J Med Sci. 2019;44:1-9.
38. Hamman JH. Composition and applications of Aloe vera leaf gel. Molecules. 2008;13:1599-616.
39. Burlando B, Cornara L. Honey in dermatology and skin care:a review. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2013;12:306-13.
40. Nong Y, Maloh J, Natarelli N, Gunt HB, Tristani E, Sivamani RK. A review of the use of beeswax in skincare. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2023;22:2166-73.
41. Simões FV, Santos VO, Silva RND, Silva RCD. Effectiveness of skin protectors and calendula officinalis for prevention and treatment of radiodermatitis:an integrative review. Rev Bras Enferm. 2020;73(suppl 5):e20190815.
42. Rosenthal A, Israilevich R, Moy R. Management of acute radiation dermatitis:A review of the literature and proposal for treatment algorithm. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2019;81:558-67.
43. Jadoon S, Karim S, Bin Asad MH, Akram MR, Khan AK, Malik A, et al. Anti-Aging potential of phytoextract loaded-pharmaceutical creams for human skin cell longetivity. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2015;2015:709628.
44. Kurek-Górecka A, Górecki M, Rzepecka-Stojko A, Balwierz R, Stojko J. Bee products in dermatology and skin care. Molecules. 2020;25:556.
45. Reick S, Hubenthal N, Zimmermann M, Hering T. [Local barrier creams for skin care in newborns, infants and toddlers with incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) –Narrative Review]. Pflege. 2017;30:117-28.
46. Vieira F, Bachion MM, Mota DD, Munari DB. A systematic review of the interventions for nipple trauma in breastfeeding mothers. J Nurs Scholarsh. 2013;45:116-25.
47. Alavi A, Sibbald RG, Ladizinski B, Saraiya A, Lee KC, Skotnicki-Grant S, et al. Wound-Related allergic/irritant contact dermatitis. Adv Skin Wound Care. 2016;29:278-86.
48. Rastogi S, Patel KR, Singam V, Silverberg JI. Allergic contact dermatitis to personal care products and topical medications in adults with atopic dermatitis. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2018;79:1028-33.e6.
49. Kosari P, Alikhan A, Sockolov M, Feldman SR. Vitamin E and allergic contact dermatitis. Dermatitis. 2010;21:148-53.
50. Liu M, Li X, Chen XY, Xue F, Zheng J. Topical application of a linoleic acid-ceramide containing moisturizer exhibit therapeutic and preventive benefits for psoriasis vulgaris:a randomized controlled trial. Dermatol Ther. 2015;28:373-82.
Notes
Request permissions
If you wish to reuse any or all of this article please use the e-mail (contact@odermatol.com) to contact with publisher.
| Related Articles | Search Authors in |
|
|
 http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0499-3495http://orcid.org/0009-0004-1893-110X |
Comments are closed.