Two thousand years ago, when the royal Hasmonean family overpowered the Greeks and were victorious, they found only one flask of pure oil, which was enough to light the Menorah for a day. A miracle occurred with this oil, which miraculously lasted and burned for eight days. We therefore celebrate the miracle of Chanukah on the 25th day of Kislev by lighting our menorahs with olive oil and traditionally and generously incorporating this healthy oil in latkes, sufganiot, and other fried foods.
Over the past decade, olive oil has served not only as a main kitchen staple, but has also been used in beauty remedies, passed down from ancient times. Naturally, olive oil is packed with anti-aging antioxidants and hydrating squalene, making it superb for skin, hair and nails. Like coconut oil, it can be an essential in every beauty maven’s kit. The following are ten beauty treatments you can concoct with olive oil.
Lip Scrub - Combine course sugar with a teaspoon of olive oil for a chapped lip quick fix. This scrub is good enough to eat - literally. Plus, you can even use it on the rest of your body to exfoliate dry patches.
Eye Makeup Remover - If you ran out of eye makeup remover, this one’s for you. Olive oil is known to break down other oil-based products., since like attracts like. This easily helps remove stubborn eye makeup. It can even be used as a pre-cleansing step to remove face makeup, which should be followed with warm water and a PH balanced face cleanser
Eczema Remedy - This is a great oil for intense moisturizer. Olive oil works as an allover treatment for extra-dry skin. Since it’s natural, it’s ideal for those with eczema and sensitive skin.
Makeup Brush Cleanser - Cleaning makeup brushes should be a monthly ritual. Use two parts antibacterial soap with one part olive oil. Your brushes will be bacteria free and the natural hairs will not become dried out.
Cracked heel Repair - Split and rough heels need moisture to heal. After exfoliating with a pumice stone, you can apply olive oil to the feet. To lock in the moisture, sleep with socks as a hydrating treatment.
Cuticle Conditioner - Would you love stronger and longer nails? Use this oil as a cuticle softener. You can apply some while cooking and even keep some near the sink, post sanitizing moisture.
Hair Treatment - Way back when, during the ancient Egyptian times, olive oil was used as a hair treatment. First, warm the olive oil in the microwave. Then apply generously to the ends of hair and scalp. Leave on for 10-20 minutes and shampoo out.
Shine Serum - Rub a few drops of olive oil on those flyaway ends after styling, for an extra glossy finish.
Antibacterial Balm - If you want a natural approach to medicine, you can whip up a Neosporin knockoff. It includes antibacterial olive oil along with lavender, calendula, and tea tree oil to ward off germs and scarring.
Diaper Treatment - Olive oil is safe for adults and even babies. It’s naturally safe for sensitive skin on baby’s bottom and can moisturize cradle cap too.
Wishing everyone a joyous and beautiful Chanukah during this season of miracles.
Risselle Naimark is a Professional Freelance Makeup Artist and Skincare Consultant. She carries an extensive line of personalized skincare, cosmetics, and anti-aging products. Risselle is also available for weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, makeup lessons, and all of your beauty needs. She can be reached at 718 263-5517.