Figaro Olive Oil: A Comprehensive Guide & Review

Figaro olive oil stands as a trusted kitchen staple in many homes. With its versatile applications spanning cooking, skincare, and haircare, this Spanish import has earned its place in pantries worldwide. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about Figaro olive oil—from its rich heritage to practical applications that extend far beyond the kitchen.

What is Figaro Olive Oil?

Figaro olive oil comes with over a century of heritage and trust. Produced in Spain by Deoleo SA since the early 1900s, this 100% natural olive oil has gained popularity for its quality and versatility. The brand offers various types of olive oil to suit different needs—whether you’re cooking an elaborate meal, making a quick salad dressing, or creating DIY beauty products.

Brief history timeline

• 1900s: Figaro brand established in Spain
• 1970s: Began international expansion
• 1990s: Gained popularity in Asian markets
• 2000s: Became part of Deoleo SA, one of the world’s largest olive oil companies
• Present: Distributed in over 40 countries globally

What to expect from this guide

This comprehensive resource will help you understand the different Figaro variants, their specific uses, nutritional benefits, and applications for cooking, skincare, and haircare. You’ll learn how to select the right Figaro oil for your needs, store it properly, and maximize its benefits.

Did You Know? Spain produces about 44% of the world’s olive oil, making it the largest producer globally.

Types of Figaro Olive Oil and Their Best Uses

Understanding the different types of Figaro olive oil helps you pick the right one for your specific needs.

Comprehensive comparison table

Figaro extra virgin olive oil

Production: Cold-extracted from the first pressing of olives without heat or chemicals.

Flavor Profile: Rich, with fruity and slightly peppery notes that can range from mild to robust.

Nutritional Highlights: Highest concentration of antioxidants and polyphenols among all types.

Best For:

• Salad dressings
• Marinades
• Dips
• Cold finishing
• Parathas (as mentioned on packaging)
• Gentle skincare applications

Why Choose It: When you want the fullest olive flavor and maximum nutritional benefits.

Key Takeaway: Extra Virgin is Figaro’s premium offering, best used in applications where you’ll taste the oil directly.

Figaro pure olive oil

Production: Typically blends refined olive oil with virgin olive oil to create a balanced product.

Flavor Profile: Milder than extra virgin, with a higher smoke point making it more versatile for cooking.

Nutritional Highlights: Contains monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and Vitamin E.

Best For:

• Everyday Indian cooking
• Sautéing
• Stir-frying
• Shallow frying
• Baking
• Gravies and curries

Why Choose It: For regular cooking where you want olive oil benefits without an overpowering taste.

Key Takeaway: Pure Olive Oil strikes the perfect balance between flavor, health benefits, and cooking versatility.

Figaro extra light tasting olive oil

Production: Filtered and refined for lighter taste and color, making it the most neutral-tasting variant.

Flavor Profile: Most neutral flavor among all types, barely detectable in finished dishes.

Nutritional Highlights: Rich in MUFA, Vitamin E, and zero trans-fat.

Best For:

• Deep frying
• Baking (especially sweets)
• Roasting at high temperatures
• Any cooking where you don’t want an olive oil taste

Why Choose It: When you need high-heat cooking but want the health benefits of olive oil without its distinctive flavor.

Key Takeaway: Extra Light is your go-to for high-heat cooking or when you don’t want the taste of olive oil to come through.

Nutritional Information

Figaro olive oil provides healthy fats and essential nutrients. Here’s the typical nutritional profile per tablespoon (15ml):

*Percent Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Nutritional differences between variants

While all Figaro olive oils provide similar caloric and fat content, they differ in micronutrient levels:

• Extra Virgin: Highest in polyphenols, antioxidants, and vitamin content
• Pure: Moderate levels of antioxidants and vitamins
• Extra Light: Fewer antioxidants but still contains beneficial fatty acids

Recommended daily intake

Health experts suggest consuming 1-2 tablespoons (15-30ml) of olive oil daily as part of a balanced diet. This amount provides heart-healthy fats without excessive calories.

Did You Know? The Mediterranean diet, which features olive oil as a primary fat source, is consistently ranked among the healthiest dietary patterns globally.

The Benefits of Figaro Olive Oil

Culinary advantages

Figaro olive oil enhances the flavor of various cuisines, especially Indian dishes. Its versatility makes it suitable for different cooking methods—from light sautéing to deep frying, depending on the variant you choose.

As a healthier cooking medium, it serves as an excellent substitute for butter or ghee in many recipes. The natural flavor can add depth to simple dishes like roasted vegetables or pasta.

Substitution guide for common fats

Health and wellness benefits

Heart Health: The monounsaturated fats in olive oil help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Studies show that replacing saturated fats with monounsaturated fats can reduce the risk of heart disease.

Antioxidant Protection: Rich in Vitamin E and polyphenols, olive oil helps protect cells from oxidative stress, which can lead to chronic diseases.

Digestive Health: Olive oil can help with mild constipation and may support overall digestive system health by promoting beneficial gut bacteria.

Anti-inflammatory Properties: The compounds in olive oil show anti-inflammatory effects, which may help with conditions involving chronic inflammation like arthritis.

Blood Sugar Management: Research suggests that olive oil may help improve insulin sensitivity, making it a good choice for those monitoring blood sugar levels.

Key Takeaway: Regular consumption of olive oil as part of a balanced diet can contribute to overall health and may help prevent certain chronic conditions.

Cooking with Figaro Olive Oil: Temperature Guide

Temperature guide for different cooking methods

Indian dishes that pair well with Figaro

With Pure Olive Oil:

• Dal Tadka (tempered lentils)
• Jeera Rice (cumin-flavored rice)
• Aloo Gobi (potato and cauliflower)
• Bhindi Masala (okra stir-fry)
• Paneer Bhurji (scrambled cottage cheese)

With Extra Light Olive Oil:

• Puris (deep-fried bread)
• Pakoras (vegetable fritters)
• Samosas (fried pastry with filling)
• Aloo Tikki (potato patties)

With Extra Virgin Olive Oil:

• Raita (yogurt side dish)
• Chutneys
• Drizzling on finished curries
• Parathas (flatbread)

General cooking tips

Match the Right Oil to Your Dish:

• Use Extra Virgin for salads, dressings, and low-heat cooking
• Use Pure for medium-heat everyday cooking
• Use Extra Light for high-heat cooking and baking

Understanding Smoke Points: The smoke point is the temperature at which oil starts to smoke and break down, losing nutritional value and developing potentially harmful compounds. Respect the smoke point of each Figaro variant for healthy cooking.

Key Takeaway: Using the right Figaro variant for different cooking methods ensures better flavor and preserves the oil’s nutritional benefits.

Skincare applications

Figaro olive oil’s natural properties make it a versatile addition to skincare routines.

Troubleshooting guide for common skin concerns

DIY facial recipes

Moisturizing Face Mask for Dry Skin:

1. 1 tablespoon Figaro Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2. 1 teaspoon honey
3. ½ mashed ripe avocado
4. 3 drops vitamin E oil (optional)

Mix ingredients thoroughly, apply to clean face, leave for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

Gentle Exfoliating Scrub:

1. 1 tablespoon Figaro Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2. 2 tablespoons fine brown sugar
3. ½ teaspoon lemon juice

Mix into a paste, apply to damp skin using circular motions, rinse thoroughly.

Soothing Under-Eye Treatment:

1. 3-4 drops Figaro Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2. 1 drop lavender essential oil (optional)

Gently pat around eye area before bed.

Precautions

• Always perform a patch test before applying to larger areas
• Those with extremely oily skin may find olive oil too heavy
• Avoid using near eyes
• If irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately
• Use fresh oil to prevent applying rancid oil to skin

Key Takeaway: Figaro olive oil can be an effective and natural addition to skincare routines, especially for those with dry or normal skin types.

Haircare solutions

Figaro olive oil can be a cost-effective solution for various hair concerns.

Targeted hair treatments

DIY hair mask recipes

Deep Conditioning Mask:

1. 3 tablespoons Figaro Pure Olive Oil
2. 1 tablespoon honey
3. 1 egg yolk
4. 1 tablespoon plain yogurt (for protein)

Mix well, apply to hair focusing on lengths and ends, cover with shower cap, leave for 30-45 minutes, then shampoo thoroughly.

Scalp Treatment for Dandruff:

1. 2 tablespoons Figaro Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2. 5 drops tea tree essential oil
3. 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Warm slightly, massage into scalp, leave for 30 minutes, then shampoo out. Use weekly.

Quick Shine Treatment:

1. 5-10 drops Figaro Extra Light Olive Oil
2. 2 drops argan oil (optional)

Rub between palms and apply to dry hair ends only to tame frizz and add shine.

Application tips

1. Always apply to dry hair before shampooing for easier removal
2. Focus on mid-lengths to ends unless treating scalp issues
3. Cover with shower cap to trap heat and aid absorption
4. Use gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to remove oil completely
5. May require double shampooing to remove fully

Key Takeaway: Regular olive oil hair treatments can significantly improve hair texture and manageability, especially for dry or damaged hair.

Baby massage

Many parents choose Figaro olive oil for baby massage because it’s:

• Mild and generally non-irritating
• Free from added fragrances (in its pure form)
• Rich in Vitamin E for skin health

Safe application guide

1. Warm a small amount of oil between your palms
2. Use gentle, smooth strokes
3. Start with a small area like the legs
4. Avoid applying near eyes, nose, mouth
5. Follow with gentle cleanup using mild soap if needed

Important Note: Always perform a patch test before using olive oil on baby’s skin, and consult with a pediatrician if your baby has sensitive skin or conditions like eczema.

How to assess Figaro Olive Oil quality

Visual assessment

• Color: Extra Virgin should have a deep gold to greenish hue, Pure is more golden, and Extra Light is pale yellow
• Clarity: Should be clear, not cloudy (unless it’s cold, which can cause temporary cloudiness)
• Viscosity: Quality oil has medium viscosity – not too runny or too thick

Aroma identification

• Extra Virgin: Should have a fresh, fruity smell with hints of grass or herbs
• Pure: Milder aroma with subtle olive notes
• Extra Light: Very mild aroma, almost neutral

Taste characteristics

• Extra Virgin: Should have a clean taste with some pepperiness or bitterness (these are positive attributes)
• Pure: Milder flavor with less bitterness
• Extra Light: Very neutral taste

Label reading guide

• Check for country of origin (Spain for Figaro)
• Look for production/expiration dates
• Verify oil type clearly stated (Extra Virgin, Pure, or Extra Light)
• Check for proper sealing and packaging integrity

Did You Know? True extra virgin olive oil will solidify somewhat when refrigerated due to its monounsaturated fat content.

Storage and shelf life

Proper storage significantly affects olive oil quality and longevity.

Storage conditions table

Storage best practices

1. Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight
2. Keep away from stove and other heat sources
3. Tightly seal the bottle after each use
4. Consider transferring to a dark glass bottle if original packaging is clear
5. Don’t store in plastic containers for extended periods

Identifying spoiled oil

• Rancid or “off” smell
• Unpleasant taste
• Unusually cloudy appearance (when at room temperature)
• Noticeable color changes

Key Takeaway: Proper storage extends your Figaro olive oil’s shelf life and preserves its flavor and nutritional benefits.

Beyond kitchen and bathroom

• Furniture Polish: A small amount of olive oil on a soft cloth can add shine to wooden furniture. Mix with a few drops of lemon juice for added cleaning power.
• Leather Conditioner: Apply sparingly to clean, dry leather to keep it supple and prevent cracking.
• Door Hinge Lubricant: A drop can stop door hinges from squeaking when traditional lubricants aren’t available.
• Stuck Zipper Fix: Apply a tiny amount to a stuck zipper to help it move freely again.
• Remove Sticker Residue: Rub olive oil onto sticky residue, let sit for 15 minutes, then wipe away.

Quiz: Which Figaro Olive Oil is right for your needs?

1. What’s your primary use for olive oil?
   
   a) Salad dressings and dips

   b) Everyday cooking (sautéing, stir-frying)

   c) Deep frying and high-heat cooking

   d) Skincare or haircare
2. How important is the olive flavor to you?
   
   a) Very important – I love the taste

   b) Somewhat important – mild flavor is fine

   c) Not important – I prefer no olive taste

   d) Depends on the application
3. What cooking temperature do you typically use?
   
   a) Low or no heat

   b) Medium heat

   c) High heat

   d) Varies widely

Results:

• Mostly A’s: Figaro Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Mostly B’s: Figaro Pure Olive Oil
• Mostly C’s: Figaro Extra Light Olive Oil
• Mostly D’s: Consider having multiple types for different uses

Conclusion

Figaro Olive Oil offers much more than just a cooking medium—it’s a versatile product that spans the kitchen, bathroom, and beyond. Whether you’re sautéing vegetables with the Pure variant, creating a salad dressing with Extra Virgin, or deep frying with Extra Light, Figaro has an olive oil for every need.

By understanding the differences between the variants and their best applications, you can get maximum value and benefits from this century-old brand. From heart health to skin glow, from flavorful cooking to nourished hair, Figaro Olive Oil continues to be a trusted companion in households worldwide.

Final Takeaway: With its balance of quality, availability, and versatility, Figaro olive oil deserves its place as a pantry essential for both culinary and personal care needs.

FAQs

Which country makes Figaro Olive Oil?

Figaro Olive Oil is produced in Spain by Deoleo SA, one of the world’s largest olive oil producers, and then imported to various countries worldwide.

How long does Figaro Olive Oil last?

Unopened bottles typically last 18-24 months. Once opened, Figaro olive oil is best used within 1-2 months if stored at room temperature, or 3-4 months if refrigerated.

Is Figaro Olive Oil a good brand?

Yes, Figaro is a well-established brand with over a century of heritage. It offers consistent quality and is particularly popular in Asian markets for its reliability and versatility in various cuisines.

How pure is Figaro Olive Oil?

The purity depends on the variant. Figaro Extra Virgin Olive Oil is 100% pure olive juice without additives. Figaro Pure Olive Oil is a blend of refined and virgin olive oils. All variants meet international standards for their respective categories.

Is Figaro Olive Oil good for heart patients?

Olive oil, including Figaro, contains monounsaturated fats that may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels when used as part of a balanced diet. However, heart patients should consult their doctor for personalized dietary advice.

What does olive oil do for your body?

Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and vitamins E and K. It may support heart health, reduce inflammation, and help with vitamin absorption.

Does olive oil go bad?

Yes, olive oil can go bad. Signs include a rancid smell, unpleasant taste, or unusual appearance. Proper storage away from heat and light extends shelf life.

Is expensive olive oil healthier?

Not necessarily. While high-quality extra virgin olive oils (which tend to be more expensive) contain more antioxidants, all olive oils provide beneficial monounsaturated fats. The most important factor is freshness.

Can we use Figaro Olive Oil for deep frying?

Yes, but it’s best to use Figaro Extra Light Olive Oil for deep frying due to its higher smoke point and neutral flavor. Figaro Pure Olive Oil can also be used for moderate-temperature frying.

Why is Figaro Olive Oil expensive?

Figaro Olive Oil is priced higher than some cooking oils due to production costs, import fees (as it’s made in Spain), and the quality control processes. However, compared to many premium olive oil brands, Figaro offers good value.

Which olive oil is best for cooking Indian food?

Figaro Pure Olive Oil is ideal for most Indian cooking as it has a medium smoke point suitable for tadkas, curries, and stir-fries. Its mild flavor doesn’t compete with Indian spices.

What is the best hair oil for hair growth?

While no oil guarantees hair growth, Figaro Extra Virgin Olive Oil can nourish the scalp and strengthen hair. For best results, combine with gentle scalp massage to improve circulation.

How to use olive oil on skin?

Apply a few drops directly to clean, slightly damp skin and massage gently. For facial use, less is more—start with 2-3 drops. It can also be used in DIY masks and scrubs as detailed earlier in this guide.

Can I apply Figaro Olive Oil on my face?

Yes, you can apply Figaro Extra Virgin Olive Oil on your face, especially if you have dry skin. Start with a small amount and patch test first. Those with acne-prone or very oily skin may find it too heavy.

Can I leave olive oil on my skin overnight?

Yes, you can leave a small amount of olive oil on the skin overnight, particularly on very dry areas. For facial application, use sparingly to avoid clogging pores. Placing a towel over your pillow can prevent oil transfer.

Which is better, coconut oil or olive oil for skin?

It depends on your skin type. Olive oil is richer and more moisturizing, making it better for very dry skin. Coconut oil is lighter but more likely to clog pores. Olive oil contains more antioxidants for anti-aging benefits.

Does olive oil fade dark spots?

Olive oil alone is unlikely to significantly fade dark spots, though its vitamin E content may help prevent new spots. For existing hyperpigmentation, targeted treatments with ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide are more effective.

What does putting olive oil on the back of your neck do?

Some people apply olive oil to the back of the neck as part of stress-relieving massage or to relieve muscle tension. There’s no specific benefit to this location beyond general moisturizing properties.

Does olive oil remove dark circles?

Olive oil alone is unlikely to remove dark circles completely. It may temporarily improve appearance by moisturizing the under-eye area. For persistent dark circles, look for specialized eye products containing caffeine, vitamin K, or retinol.

What does Figaro oil do for baby massage?

Figaro olive oil can moisturize baby’s skin during infant massage, which may help with bonding, circulation, and relaxation. Always use sparingly and perform a patch test first.