Emollient plant oil similar to many other non-fragrant plant oils. The concept of olive oil having anti-aging properties stems from some evidence that diets high in olive oil may help prevent heart disease. Olive oil is beneficial for dry skin because of its fatty acid content, some of which comes from the emollient squalene. Olive oil contains essential fatty acids dry skin needs, including oleic, palmitic, and linoleic acids. It also contains phenolic compounds that provide antioxidant benefit. Also worth mentioning is olive oil’s anti-inflammatory property. Although this benefit has been demonstrated when olive oil is consumed orally, it is reasonable to assume that topical application would net this benefit too. Olive oil appears to decrease pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids while increasing anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. There are also a small number of animal tests showing that topically applied olive oil can protect against UVB damage (Sources: Talanta, December 2009, pages 924-934; International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research, May 2009, pages 152–165; Molecules, January 2009, pages 540–554; Annals of Internal Medicine, September 2006, pages 333–341; European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, January 2002, pages 72–81; and Lipids, November 2001, pages 1195–1202, and Supplemental, pages S49–S52; Carcinogenesis, November 2000, pages 2085–2090; and Journal of Dermatological Science, March 2000, Supplemental, pages S45–S50).