A beauty ritual promoted by IVE member Jang Wonyoung has taken social media by storm: taking a shot of extra virgin olive oil mixed with fresh lemon juice on an empty stomach every morning. Dubbed the “Olle Shot,” this extreme concoction initially drew rave reviews from fans who claimed their skin looked clearer and more radiant. But a wave of online complaints now tells a different story—severe acne eruptions, skin irritation, and painful mouth ulcers. According to Chief Nutritionist Kennie Siu of Natural Plus, this trend may do more harm than good for many people.
Antioxidant Theory vs. Real-World Repercussions
Olive oil is rich in polyphenols, while lemon juice provides a hefty dose of vitamin C—both potent antioxidants that fight free radicals and support collagen production. In theory, the combination could benefit skin health. Yet the way the “Olle Shot” is consumed—drinking straight fat and strong acid before any food—places extreme stress on the digestive system. “For those with sensitive stomachs, this creates a shock that can spike cortisol levels, triggering sudden breakouts,” Kennie Siu explained in an exclusive interview.
Netizens who jumped on the bandwagon reported exactly that: clusters of inflamed acne on the forehead, behind the ears, and all over the face. Others complained of painful canker sores inside the mouth. The nutritionist attributes this to the pure lemon juice eroding the oral mucous membrane, especially if tiny cuts or abrasions are present.
Three Groups That Should Stay Away
The nutritionist is clear that this is not a one-size-fits-all remedy. She identifies three high-risk groups:
- People with acid reflux or GERD: The high acidity of lemon juice combined with fat can relax the esophageal sphincter, worsening heartburn and acid reflux.
- Those with gallbladder issues or poor bile secretion: A sudden dose of pure fat can trigger painful gallbladder contractions, potentially leading to biliary colic or complications with gallstones.
- Individuals on long-term medication: High doses of lemon juice may interfere with liver metabolism of certain drugs, including statins and antihistamines, while fat slows gastric emptying and alters drug absorption.
A Safer Way to Enjoy the Benefits
Kennie Siu emphasizes that you don’t need to risk your health to get the antioxidant benefits of olive oil and lemon. Her suggestion: start the day with a glass of warm water infused with two slices of lemon. Then, incorporate one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil into a balanced breakfast—drizzle it over scrambled eggs or whole-wheat toast. This method supports digestion and provides sustained energy without shocking the system.
The Bigger Lesson
The “Olle Shot” trend underscores how quickly a celebrity-endorsed fad can spread, and how quickly it can backfire when it ignores individual health differences. As Kennie Siu points out, skin health depends on a holistic approach—not a single extreme remedy. Anyone considering such a regimen should first consult a healthcare professional, and those already experiencing adverse effects are urged to stop immediately and seek medical advice.
Rather than chasing quick fixes, the more sustainable path to radiant skin lies in consistent, science-backed nutrition habits tailored to one’s own body.