A Guide to Different Types of Olive Oil: Olive Oil 101

Olive oil offers numerous benefits, whether used for culinary purposes or skincare. It is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids (such as Omega-6 and Omega-3), as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substances. These properties not only contribute to health benefits but also enhance the moisturising and anti-inflammatory qualities of handmade soaps, making them ideal for sensitive skin. When used in essential oil sticks applied directly to the body, olive oil is easily absorbed, aiding in anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy effects. However, there are many types of olive oil, each with different names. What are the differences between them? In this article, we’ll share insights on olive oil, a common ingredient in handmade soaps, which will also help you in choosing the right olive oil.

When purchasing olive oil, have you noticed the various names on the market, such as olive oil, pure olive oil, extra virgin olive oil, and light olive oil? Do they have any differences? Are terms like ‘pure,’ ‘extra virgin,’ and ‘light’ just marketing descriptions, or do they represent different types of olive oil? Which type is suitable for skincare or making handmade soaps? Which type is good for cooking? In fact, these different names of olive oil represent different qualities of olive oil

The following table briefly explains the different types of olive oil. You can keep these in mind when making a purchase

Extra Virgin Olive Oil	The process from washing, drying, pressing, filtering, to bottling the olives must be completed within 24 hours to prevent oxidation and spoilage. Additionally, the process must be carried out below 30 degrees Celsius using the ‘cold-press’ method; this preserves the strongest color, aroma, and flavor. Suitable for salads and seasoning, but not for high-heat frying. Suitable for making handmade soaps or skincare oils.”
Virgin Olive Oil	Second cold-pressed oil
Ordinary Virgin Olive Oil	Third hot-pressed oil; not for direct retail sale
Virgin Olive Oil not fit for consumption	Used as lamp oil or for further refinement
Refined Olive Oil	Refined using high-temperature distillation and physical methods to filter out inedible extra virgin olive oil, the refining process removes color and flavor
Pure/Classic/Extra Light Olive Oil	Made by mixing refined olive oil with 10-20% extra virgin olive oil, it is edible; after high-temperature processing, the color and flavor are lighter. Suitable for most cooking methods, including high-temperature frying, sautéing, and deep-frying. Suitable for making handmade soaps.
Crude Olive Pomace Oil	Oil obtained from olive pomace used for further processing.
Refined Olive Pomace Oil	Refined from crude olive pomace oil, it is not suitable for direct retail.
Olive Pomace Oil	Made by mixing refined olive pomace oil with extra virgin olive oil; extracted and refined using the chemical solvent ‘n-hexane’ and high-temperature processing

Source: International Olive Council (IOC)

Generally, the olive oils available on the market are extra virgin olive oil (Extra Virgin Olive Oil), (pure/classic/light) olive oil (Pure/Classic/Extra Light Olive Oil), and olive pomace oil (Olive Pomace Oil). After understanding the differences between the various types of olive oil, it’s clear that the most nutritious is, of course, extra virgin olive oil. However, since it is not suitable for high-temperature cooking, (pure/classic/light) olive oil is recommended for general household use

As for olive pomace oil, since the chemical solvent ‘n-hexane’ is used as the solvent, it is difficult to completely remove it during the refining process. ‘n-Hexane’ is a substance with carcinogenic risk, so it is not recommended to use olive pomace oil for soap making or consumption

“Gently promoting ~ Our soap series ‘The Classic’made with extra virgin olive oil, is perfect for dry and sensitive skin!

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