Can babies have olive oil, and is it truly safe for their diet and skin?

As more parents explore natural options to support their baby’s growth and comfort, olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil, is gaining attention for its potential health benefits. From adding a few drops to vegetable or fruit purees to massaging olive oil onto a baby’s delicate skin, this versatile oil is often seen as a natural remedy. But before you drizzle olive oil into your baby's diet or apply it to their body, it's important to understand what pediatricians recommend, when it’s safe to introduce, and how much is appropriate.

This guide breaks down the safety, benefits, and best ways to use olive oil for babies, along with expert-backed tips to help you use it correctly.

Many parents want to include olive oil in their baby’s routine, but safety should come first. Understanding expert advice and using the correct type of oil in appropriate amounts is key to supporting healthy development.

Many pediatricians consider small amounts of extra virgin olive oil safe for babies after they begin eating solid foods, usually around 6 months. Olive oil contains healthy fats like oleic acid and monounsaturated fatty acids associated with growth and brain development. However, it’s not a replacement for breast milk or formula and should only supplement a balanced weaning diet.

Once your baby starts solid foods, you can introduce olive oil in tiny amounts—just a few drops mixed into purées. Gradually increase up to about 1 teaspoon per day, spread across meals. Always consult your pediatrician for guidance, especially if your baby has dietary sensitivities or allergies.

Olive oil is often called "liquid gold" for good reason. It offers many benefits for a baby's growth, digestion, and skin health when used correctly.

Extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats and oleic acid, which are essential for early brain and nerve development. These fats also help support growth and overall energy needs.

Olive oil contains antioxidants such as vitamin E and polyphenols, which may help protect cells and support general wellness. Some parents also find that small amounts of olive oil can help ease mild constipation, though it's always best to check with your pediatrician first.

Traditionally, olive oil has been used as a moisturizer to soothe dry skin and manage cradle caps. However, newer studies suggest it may disrupt the skin barrier in some babies, especially those with eczema. Always do a patch test and consult your pediatrician before applying it regularly.

There are several safe and simple ways to include olive oil in your baby’s meals. Choosing the right method depends on your baby’s age, the type of food, and how the oil is prepared.

Drizzle a few drops of cold-pressed, extra virgin olive oil over cooked vegetables like carrots, peas, or sweet potatoes. This adds flavor and helps deliver healthy fats that support nutrient absorption and development.

Light sautéing is fine, but avoid heating olive oil at high temperatures to preserve its nutrients. Instead, stir it in after cooking or use it as a finishing oil to retain its antioxidant properties.

Between 6 to 12 months, olive oil can be mixed into mashed foods or soft finger foods. After your baby turns 1, you can incorporate it more regularly in toddler-friendly meals like toast, pasta, or scrambled eggs.

Not all olive oils offer the same quality or nutritional value. Choosing the right type ensures your baby benefits without unnecessary additives or processing. When used for a baby’s diet or sensitive skin, paying attention to oil quality is especially important.

To help you choose the right olive oil for your baby, here's a quick comparison of extra virgin, virgin, and light olive oil:

When buying olive oil for your baby, check for clear labeling that includes terms like “cold-pressed,” “organic,” and “extra virgin.” These indicate minimal processing and better quality. Steer clear of bottles labeled “blended” or “light” olive oil, as they can include refined oils or added flavors that reduce purity and may not be safe for infant use. Simple, single-ingredient olive oil is the best choice for cooking or skin care.

To make sure your olive oil stays fresh and retains its nutritional value for your baby’s meals and skincare, follow these simple storage tips:

• Store in a cool, dark place – Keep the olive oil away from heat sources like stoves and direct sunlight to prevent oxidation.

• Seal the bottle tightly – Always close the cap securely after use to reduce air exposure and maintain freshness.

• Avoid plastic containers – Use dark glass bottles or stainless steel to minimize chemical leaching and protect against light.

• Don’t refrigerate – While refrigeration can extend shelf life, it may cause the oil to solidify and alter its texture. Room temperature is best.

• Use within 6 months of opening – Olive oil is best when used fresh; prolonged storage can cause flavor and nutrient degradation.

Olive oil is a liquid and does not pose a choking hazard for babies when used appropriately in foods or on the skin. However, like any new food, parents need to monitor for signs of sensitivity, especially during the early stages of introducing solids.

Olive oil is not considered a common allergen, and most babies tolerate olive oil well when introduced in small amounts. It's derived from olives, which are rarely associated with allergic reactions. Nevertheless, sensitivities may occasionally occur, so it’s essential to observe your baby’s response, especially during the first few uses.

While olive oil is generally well-tolerated, it's essential to stay alert for signs of an allergic reaction or food sensitivity, especially when introducing it for the first time. Here are common symptoms to watch for:

• Skin reactions – Rash, redness, or hives on the face, arms, or body

• Digestive issues – Vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual gassiness after a meal

• Swelling – Noticeable puffiness around the lips, eyes, or cheeks

• Respiratory symptoms – Coughing, wheezing, or nasal congestion

• Behavioral changes – Unusual fussiness, irritability, or refusal to eat

If any of these symptoms occur, discontinue the use of olive oil and contact your pediatrician for further guidance.

Introducing new oils like olive oil into your baby’s diet should be done carefully to ensure they tolerate it well. Here’s how to do it safely:

• Start with a small amount – Add just a few drops of olive oil to a single serving of pureed food.

• Use only one new food at a time – Avoid mixing it with other new ingredients to track any reaction easily.

• Wait 2–3 days before adding another new food – This waiting period helps identify if olive oil is the cause of any sensitivity.

• Watch for signs of allergies or discomfort – Look for rashes, diarrhea, vomiting, or unusual fussiness after eating.

• Consult your pediatrician – If you notice any concerning symptoms, pause the oil and get medical advice before reintroducing it.

Beyond its use in food, olive oil is often used as a natural remedy for baby skincare. Its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties help soothe and protect a baby’s body without harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.

Olive oil is commonly used for baby massages because it glides smoothly on the skin, helps with relaxation, and promotes bonding. It is commonly used during baby massages and may help moisten the skin. For best results, use a small amount of extra virgin olive oil and gently rub it into your baby’s arms, legs, and back in a warm, quiet environment.

To help with the cradle cap, apply a small amount of olive oil to your baby’s scalp and leave it on for 10–15 minutes. Then, gently brush off the softened flakes and rinse the area with mild baby shampoo. Olive oil can also be used in small amounts on dry patches of skin or minor rashes to restore moisture and reduce irritation.

Some parents choose olive oil as a natural alternative to commercial diaper rash creams, using it as a gentle moisturizer for their baby’s skin. While it may help soothe mild irritation, it’s important to consult a pediatrician if the rash persists. For more severe cases or broken skin, medically formulated creams are often a safer and more effective option.

Making your baby food and skincare with olive oil is a safe and effective way to incorporate its health benefits into your baby’s routine. Using olive oil in homemade recipes allows you to control ingredients and avoid additives, giving your baby a more natural start. These simple, baby-friendly ideas are easy to prepare and support nutrition and skincare needs.

Here’s a simple, nourishing recipe to introduce olive oil into your baby’s diet once they start solids at around 6 months:

1. Steam carrots, peas, or zucchini until tender.

2. Let the vegetables cool slightly after cooking.

3. Add about 1 teaspoon of cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil.

4. Blend until smooth and creamy.

5. Serve warm as a nutrient-rich purée for babies 6 months and older.

This toddler-friendly muffin recipe is a great way to use olive oil for a nutritious, easy-to-chew snack:

1. Mash 2 ripe bananas in a mixing bowl.

2. Add 1 cup of rolled oats and 2 eggs.

3. Stir in 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.

4. Mix until thoroughly combined.

5. Spoon the batter into muffin cups.

6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

7. Allow to cool before serving.

A gentle DIY balm can be an effective way to care for your baby’s sensitive skin using natural oils:

1. Combine 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a small bowl.

2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.

3. Pour into a clean, airtight jar for storage.

4. Apply a small amount to dry skin, mild rashes, or the diaper area as needed.

5. Keep the balm in a cool, dry place and use it within 2–3 weeks for best freshness.

Daily use of olive oil is fine in small amounts, but balance is key. Babies benefit from various nutrients during their early stages of growth, and while olive oil is rich in healthy fats, it should be part of a broader, nutrient-dense diet. Overuse may crowd out other important food sources, so moderation is essential.

Giving your baby a small amount of olive oil daily is generally safe once they begin eating solid foods after 6 months. Use a few drops or up to 1 teaspoon daily, depending on your baby’s age and dietary needs. Spread it across different meals to enhance flavors and provide a consistent intake of healthy fats without overdoing it.

Olive oil can play a helpful role in absorbing fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K, which are crucial for vision, bone strength, immune support, and cell health. When added to vegetables or other foods, the fats in olive oil help the baby’s body better absorb and use these essential vitamins. This can make each meal more nutritionally complete.

While olive oil offers many benefits, it shouldn’t be the only fat source in your baby’s meals. A varied diet that includes healthy fats from avocado, coconut oil, breast milk, and even fatty fish (as recommended by your pediatrician) ensures a broader range of nutrients. Balanced fat intake can be part of a diet that supports growth and development when used with other healthy fat sources.

Yes, olive oil can be a safe and nourishing addition to your baby’s routine after 6 months of age. When used in small amounts, high-quality extra virgin olive oil supports brain development, aids digestion, and promotes healthy skin. From mixing it into vegetable purees to applying it gently on dry skin or cradle cap, olive oil offers many benefits without harsh chemicals. Just introduce it slowly, choose the right type, and talk to your pediatrician if you have concerns about how your baby might tolerate olive oil.