If you haven’t heard of hydroxytyrosol, you’re not alone, but this powerhouse ingredient just might be the secret your skin didn’t know it needed. Derived from the humble olive, hydroxytyrosol is considered the most potent antioxidant, even surpassing the strength of vitamin C and vitamin E, and it’s rapidly making its mark in the beauty world for its remarkable anti-inflammatory properties.
Does this mean you need to splurge on more skincare to reap its benefits? The good news is, many brands have already incorporated this ingredient into their formulas. Here, Daniel Isaacs, Chief Product Officer and Founding Partner of Medik8, explains why this little-known gem is worth adding to your skincare radar, and we highlight some of the best products that already contain it.
What is hydroxytyrosol?
‘Hydroxytyrosol is a potent antioxidant polyphenol naturally found in olives,’ says Isaacs. ‘It is one of the most powerful antioxidants known, offering exceptional free radical protection to help maintain healthy, youthful-looking skin.’
As for proof? A study published in the National Library of Medicine found that that olive oil compounds, especially hydroxytyrosol, offer strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, protecting skin cells from oxidative damage and promoting cell viability. Hydroxytyrosol also outperformed vitamin C and E in its protective effects, meaning the findings support the use of these compounds in skincare for enhancing skin health and protecting against environmental stress.
Why is hydroxytyrosol used in skincare?
‘Due to its exceptional antioxidant properties, hydroxytyrosol helps protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by pollution, UV exposure, and other environmental aggressors. This helps to prevent premature ageing, support collagen integrity, and maintain an even, radiant complexion,’ explains Isaacs.
What is the best source of hydroxytyrosol?
You guessed it: olives. ‘Particularly extra virgin olive oil and olive leaf extract,’ says Isaacs. ‘However, for skincare, highly purified hydroxytyrosol is often derived from various olive sources to ensure stability and efficacy in formulations.’
What are the benefits of hydroxytyrosol?
Hydroxytyrosol is a powerful antioxidant that:
- Shields the skin from free radical damage, helping to prevent premature ageing
- Supports collagen integrity for firmer skin
- Evens tone for a brighter complexion
- Soothes oxidative stress-induced irritation
- Promotes long-term skin health
Is hydroxytyrosol the same as olive leaf extract?
‘Not exactly,’ schools Isaacs. ‘While hydroxytyrosol is one of the key active compounds in olive leaf extract, the extract itself contains a mix of polyphenols and other beneficial compounds. Hydroxytyrosol in its purified form delivers a highly potent and concentrated antioxidant effect.’
What is the disadvantage of olive oil on face?
While olive oil is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, it has a heavy texture that may not be suitable for all skin types.
‘It can be comedogenic, potentially clogging pores and leading to breakouts, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Additionally, unrefined olive oil can degrade with exposure to air, potentially leading to oxidative stress rather than protection,’ says Isaacs.
What is the most powerful antioxidant for skin?
This is where it gets tricky. ‘There isn’t a single “most powerful” antioxidant, as different antioxidants work in synergy to protect and repair the skin,’ reveals Issacs.
‘However, hydroxytyrosol stands out as one of the most potent, with an exceptionally high oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). Other powerhouse antioxidants include vitamin C (ascorbic acid), vitamin E (tocopherol), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and ferulic acid, all of which help defend against premature ageing and environmental damage.’
HYDRATOR 3 Barrier Support
Murad Murad InvisiScar Resurfacing Treatment 15ml
Drunk Elephant F-Balm Electrolyte Waterfacial Hydrating Mask
Serum Hydroxytyrosol Skin Tint
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Perdita Nouril is the Beauty Editor for Women’s Health UK. She has worked in the beauty industry for 15 years since graduating from the University of Nottingham. Adept at exploring the colossal world of beauty, she loves to scratch beneath the surface to debunk the myths, decode the science and challenge traditional notions of beauty. You can always find her preaching sermons on the power of a red lip, extolling the virtues of a decent serum and championing the very best female beauty founders.
You can find Perdita on Instagram on @perditanouril