The olive tree (Olea europaea) has been cultivated for over 6,000 years , originating in the Eastern Mediterranean before spreading to Greece, Italy, and France. Ancient Egyptians used olive oil to anoint their skin, Greek athletes massaged it on their bodies before competing, and Romans considered it a luxury cosmetic.

But it’s in Southern France, particularly Marseille, where olive oil’s legacy in soap making was truly cemented. Since the 17th century , the iconic Traditional Savon de Marseille has been crafted using a traditional method that relies on olive oil as a primary fat source, producing a soap renowned for its purity, gentleness, and sustainability.

Olive oil is a core ingredient in Castile soap , Aleppo soap , and Traditional Savon de Marseille . In soap making, it creates a mild, conditioning bar that’s ideal for all skin types, especially sensitive, dry, or irritated skin.

Key Benefits in Soap:

• Moisturising : Olive oil is rich in oleic acid and squalene , which help maintain the skin’s lipid barrier.

• Non-stripping : It cleans without removing natural oils, leaving skin soft and hydrated.

• Gentle for all ages : Suitable for babies, eczema-prone skin, and mature complexions.

• Long-lasting : Olive oil produces a solid, slow-melting bar.

In traditional Savon de Marseille , a large  cauldron is used to saponify olive oil with soda ash (sodium carbonate), creating a biodegradable, fragrance-free soap often stamped with the words “72% d'huile.” Watch it being made and read more on that here.

Olive oil is not only used in soap—it’s a star in:

• Facial oils

• Body balms

• Lip salves

• Cleansing oils

• Moisturizers and serums

Its versatility comes from its ability to mimic the skin’s natural sebum , penetrate deeply, and deliver antioxidants where they’re most needed. Learn more about that here.

Key Skincare Benefits:

• Vitamin E : A natural antioxidant that protects against free radicals and environmental damage.

• Polyphenols : Anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe redness and irritation.

• Hydration : Olive oil locks in moisture without clogging pores (non-comedogenic rating: 2).

• Skin repair : Supports healing from sun damage, scarring, and dryness.

One of olive oil’s strengths is that it is gentle enough to be used on its own, without added fragrance—making it perfect for sensitive or reactive skin.

Fragrance-Free Olive Oil Soap:

• Ideal for eczema , psoriasis , rosacea , and  children.

• Recommended by dermatologists for people with fragrance allergies

• Carries a naturally mild, earthy aroma from the oil itself.

• Multipurpose, one product does it all.

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Fragranced Olive Oil Soap:

• Blends beautifully with lavender, rosemary, orange blossom, verbena and more.

• Popular in Provence, where herbal distilleries inspire regional scents

• Allow for creativity and interpretation.

• Still gentle on the skin where no allergies are present.

Many Provençal artisans offer both versions to suit different preferences and skin types.

While rare, some individuals may be sensitive to oleic acid in high concentrations, which can disrupt the skin barrier in certain cases. However, olive oil is generally well-tolerated and often recommended by dermatologists as a base for gentle cleansing and hydration .

• Always look at the quality and sourcing of ingredients, whilst this may be difficult at product level, it should be transparent at brand level. Look for unrefined, extra virgin olive oil, or/and Organic in skincare products—it retains more nutrients and won't be chemically treated at source.

• For acne-prone skin, pair olive oil with balancing oils like jojoba or tea tree in small amounts.

• Verify that whilst the soap may be labelled 'olive oil', does it actually contain 'Olive Oil' as a principle ingredient. We've actually seen some Olive Oil' soaps that don't contain olive oil, they contain olive oil perfume!!

• Avoid heavily perfumed “olive oil soaps” that probably contain dyes and perfume (these, depending upon their level of 'manufacture' are ok for non sensitive types).

Olive oil is not just kind to your skin—it’s kind to the planet:

• Biodegradable

• Palm oil-free

• Low environmental impact (for our soaps) through local sourcing

• Cruelty-free and suitable for vegans

The brands we work with are all working on their own environmental foot print. For example Bar soaps are either Unwrapped, or use plastic-free packaging such as Cellulose which is fully biodegradable, or fsc compostable paper. Liquid Soaps are in recycled and recyclable bottles and all come in large re-fill sizes. Zero-waste formulations, low water-use process and organic certification too.

Supporting small-batch producers in Provence also sustains local agriculture and protects traditional savoir-faire.

From ancient queens to modern Provençal artisans, olive oil remains one of the most cherished ingredients in natural skincare.

 Whether you're choosing a fragrance-free bar for sensitive skin or a botanically infused cleanser with lavender or citrus, olive oil provides timeless, versatile, and effective care.

Its ability to moisturise, soothe, and protect makes it ideal for daily use—and its deep cultural ties to Marseille and Provence add a rich heritage to every lather.