tan for olive skin

Olive Oil for Tan: Natural Sun-Kissed Glow or Skincare Myth?

If you’re looking for a natural way to get a glowing skin, you might want to consider using olive oil. With the desire for a golden complexion ever-present, many have turned to this natural remedy as an alternative to commercial tanning products. In this article, we delve into the concept of using olive oil for tanning, exploring its effectiveness, potential benefits, and important considerations to keep in mind. While some swear by its ability to enhance the skin’s glow, others question its safety and potential drawbacks. So, whether you’re a sun-seeking enthusiast or simply curious about this age-old practice, join us as we uncover the truth behind using olive oil for tanning and how it can either be your radiant glow secret or just a skincare myth.

Why Is Olive Oil Beneficial for Your Skin?

Moisturizes and Nourishes

Olive oil is an excellent moisturizer that helps to keep the skin soft and supple. It penetrates deep into the skin, providing hydration and nourishment to the cells. Additionally, olive oil contains healthy fats that help to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, protecting it against environmental stressors and preventing moisture loss.

Fights Aging

Olive oil is rich in antioxidants that help to fight aging. These antioxidants neutralize free radicals that can cause damage to the skin cells, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging. By incorporating olive oil into your skincare routine, you can help to keep your skin looking youthful and radiant.

Soothes Irritation

Olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe irritated and inflamed skin. If you suffer from eczema, psoriasis, or other inflammatory skin conditions, using olive oil can help to reduce redness, itching, and discomfort.

How Does Olive Oil Help You Get a Tan?

Olive oil is rich in vitamins and nutrients that are essential for healthy skin. It contains antioxidants, such as vitamin E, which protect the skin from free radicals that can cause damage and aging. Additionally, olive oil contains healthy fats that moisturize and nourish the skin, helping to keep it soft and supple.

When you apply olive oil to your skin before sunbathing, it helps to accelerate the tanning process. This is because olive oil contains a small amount of SPF (Sun Protection Factor), which provides some protection against UV rays. However, it’s important to note that olive oil should never be used as a substitute for sunscreen, as it doesn’t provide adequate protection against harmful UV rays.

How to Use Olive Oil to Get a Tan

Using olive oil to get a tan is easy and straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Choose a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil. Look for an organic, cold-pressed variety that’s free from additives and preservatives.
  • Before sunbathing, apply a generous amount of olive oil to your skin. Massage the oil into your skin using circular motions, focusing on areas that are prone to dryness and flakiness, such as elbows, knees, and feet.
  • Wait for a few minutes to allow the oil to absorb into your skin before exposing yourself to the sun.
  • Reapply olive oil every 30 minutes to 1 hour, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.

Precautions When Using Olive Oil for Tan

While using olive oil to get a tan can be effective, there are some precautions that you should take to avoid skin damage and sunburn. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Never use olive oil as a substitute for sunscreen. Olive oil has a low SPF and doesn’t provide adequate protection against harmful UV rays.
  • Always apply sunscreen before applying olive oil. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply every 2 hours.
  • Avoid sunbathing during peak hours when the sun’s rays are strongest. Plan your outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon when the sun is less intense.
  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid heat stroke.
  • Wear protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses, to shield your skin from the sun.

Conclusion

Olive oil is an excellent natural alternative to chemical tanning products. Not only does it help you get a beautiful tan, but it also nourishes and moisturizes your skin, leaving it soft and supple. However, it’s important to use olive oil responsibly and take precautions to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. By following these tips, you can enjoy a healthy and glowing tan while keeping your skin safe and protected.

ONE PAN BONELESS SKINLESS CHICKEN THIGHS

One of my go-to budget-friendly one-pan meals is country-style boneless chicken thighs in a creamy garlic mushroom sauce. It’s simple to prepare and includes tender boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cream, herbs, mushrooms, and garlic, all cooked together in a single pan. For BBQ enthusiasts, give my spicy grilled chicken thighs or flavorful garlic and basil grilled chicken thighs a try—they’re sure to satisfy!

WHY THIS DISH IS SO GREAT

  • Quick and Easy: Everything cooks in one pan and is ready in under 20 minutes, making it a fast meal solution.
  • Affordable: Chicken thighs are a budget-friendly cut, and the other ingredients are common kitchen staples.
  • Versatile: You can customize the recipe by experimenting with different herbs or adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli to suit your tastes.
  • Healthy: This dish is low in carbs, packed with healthy fats, and rich in protein, making it an excellent choice for keto and paleo diets.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: The one-pan chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep, as they store and reheat well—ideal for lunches at work or a quick meal on the go.

INGREDIENTS

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 750g boneless skinless chicken thigh fillets (6 fillets)
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 4 tbsp olive oil

Sauce

  • 30g salted butter (2 tablespoons)
  • 4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
  • 250g button mushrooms, sliced (small-sized mushrooms work best)
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Mix the thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the seasoning, pressing it into the meat (avoid rubbing).
  • Cook the Chicken: Heat 4 tbsp of olive oil in a large frying pan or skillet over high heat. Cook the chicken in two batches, 3 thighs at a time, for about 5-8 minutes on each side, until golden and charred on the outside. It’s okay if the chicken isn’t fully cooked through at this point. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  • Make the Sauce: In the same pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped garlic and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they shrink and become browned.
  • Finish the Sauce: Once the mushrooms are browned, add the chicken stock and cook for another 30 seconds to lift the flavorful bits from the pan. Reduce the heat to medium, add the cream and stir. Then, add the parmesan cheese and simmer on low heat, stirring continuously, until the cheese has fully melted.
  • Combine and Serve: Return the chicken thighs to the pan and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked through and heated. (The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C.) Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with parsley or chives and serve.

NOTES

  • Flavor Tip: The key to this dish is charring the chicken over high heat and roughly chopping the garlic for that woody, slightly burnt flavor, which adds depth to the sauce.
  • Thickness Adjustments: For a thicker sauce, reduce the chicken stock by half and replace it with extra cream. For a thinner sauce, gradually add more chicken stock until desired consistency is reached.

STORING

  • Refrigeration: This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
  • Freezing: Store for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw before reheating in a pot, pan, oven, or microwave.

NUTRITION

This dish is a flavorful and balanced option, offering a good amount of protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the cream and olive oil, and a rich, savory sauce. It’s low in carbs, making it perfect for keto and paleo diets.