Camellia is an evergreen plant with glossy leaves and elegant flowers that has been cultivated for thousands of years in East Asia. It belongs to the Camellia genus and includes many species, with the most well-known being Camellia japonica, Camellia oleifera and Camellia sinensis.
The latter is famous worldwide, as its leaves are used to produce tea. However, in natural cosmetics and beauty care, the main focus is on the seeds of the camellia plant, from which a highly valuable botanical oil is extracted.
Traditionally grown in Japan, China and Korea, camellia has long been associated with refinement, resilience and longevity. In Japanese culture especially, it has been linked to beauty rituals and hair care for centuries through the use of its oil.
Historically, camellia oil was an essential part of daily beauty routines in East Asia. Geishas used it to keep their hair smooth, glossy and perfectly styled, while it was also applied to the skin to protect against dryness and harsh weather conditions.
Beyond cosmetics, camellia oil was valued for its stability and was even used to preserve wooden and metal tools. This traditional use highlights how resistant the oil is to oxidation and degradation.
Over time, this ancestral knowledge was passed on and eventually integrated into modern cosmetic science, where camellia oil is now considered a premium ingredient.
from plant to oilCamellia oil is extracted from the seeds of the plant, mainly from Camellia oleifera and Camellia japonica. After harvesting, the seeds are dried and cold-pressed to preserve their nutritional and functional properties.
The result is a clear, lightweight oil with:
- excellent absorption
- a subtle natural aroma
- a non-greasy finish
- high oxidative stability
These characteristics make it ideal for high-quality cosmetic formulations.
One of the main reasons camellia oil is so well tolerated by skin and hair is its close similarity to natural sebum.
It is particularly rich in:
- Oleic acid (Omega-9)
- Vitamin E
- Polyphenols
- Phytosterols
- Small amounts of natural squalene
This balanced composition explains its high compatibility and versatility.
In skincare, camellia oil acts primarily as a strengthening and balancing agent.
It helps to:
- deeply moisturise without clogging pores
- reinforce the skin barrier
- improve elasticity
- smooth skin texture
- reduce dehydration
Thanks to its lightweight feel, it is suitable even for combination and oily skin types.
For hair care, camellia oil is considered one of the most balanced botanical oils available.
It supports:
- frizz reduction
- hair smoothing
- enhanced shine
- protection against dryness
- improved elasticity
When applied to the scalp, it helps maintain moisture balance and comfort without causing heaviness or buildup.
In my formulations, camellia oil plays a key functional role beyond simple nourishment.
It helps to:
- balance heavier oils
- improve absorption
- enhance sensory feel
- make products easier to use on a daily basis
In practice, it acts as a bridge between performance and elegance.
Today, camellia oil is widely used in:
- facial serums
- hair oils
- scalp treatments
- body oils
- anti-aging productsluxury
- natural formulations
In natural cosmetics, it is often considered a high-end carrier oil.
- In Japan, camellia symbolises discipline, elegance and inner strength.
- Its oil was traditionally used to protect tools from rust.
- It is one of the most stable botanical oils in long-term storage.
- It is often called “the olive oil of Asian beauty”.
Camellia begins as a resilient and refined plant of East Asia and evolves into one of the most reliable botanical ingredients in natural beauty care. Its oil combines historical tradition, scientific validation and practical effectiveness.
For this reason, it remains a core ingredient in my formulations for both skin and hair, offering balanced care without excess or compromise.
recipes with camellia
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