This post is your ultimate guide to Japanese camellia oil (also known as Camellia Japonica oil or Tsubaki) – and its incredible benefits for the skin and body.
Camellia oil has been called the Japanese geisha’s secret elixir. This rejuvenating oil has been a part of Japanese beauty rituals for centuries. Packed with antioxidants and nutrients, it’s a must-have ingredient for glowing, ageless skin.
In this post, we look at the various types of camellia oil and focus on the unique benefits of Camellia Japonica oil (also known as Tsukabi), which is the most prized form of camellia oil.
Different Types of Camellia Oil
Few people realize that there are three different kinds of camellia oil on the market.
Each type of camellia oil is derived from a different variety of camellia plant. Though they are all referred to as camellia oil, they are not the same.
1. Camellia Sinensis oil
The Camellia Sinensis, or tea plant, is the plant species used to produce tea. The seeds are used to make oil, while the leaves are used to make black tea, green tea, white tea, and oolong tea.
Camellia Sinensis oil is commonly referred to as tea seed oil or tea oil. (Not to be confused with tea tree oil, an essential oil that comes from Australia.) This lightweight oil is traditionally used for hair and skin care.
2. Camellia Oleifera oil
Camellia Oleifera is a white-flowering camellia species native to China. The seeds are used to produce an edible oil that is commonly used in cooking.
Camellia Oleifera oil can also be used as a cosmetic oil. Like other forms of camellia oil, it has a lightweight, non-greasy texture and is nourishing to the skin and hair.
3. Camellia Japonica oil
Finally, the oil most commonly associated with skincare and beauty is Camellia Japonica oil (also known as Tsubaki). This is the oil that was traditionally used by Japanese geishas.
Camellia Japonica oil is cold-pressed from the seeds of the Japanese camellia plant. This premium beauty oil is renowned for its moisturizing and anti-aging properties.
Camellia Japonica Oil Skin Benefits
Camellia oil, particularly Camellia Japonica oil, has numerous skincare benefits. Here are four of our favorite reasons to incorporate this incredible botanical oil into your beauty routine.
1. Rich in antioxidants
Like green tea, camellia oil is rich in antioxidants that help to soothe skin and fight damage. In fact, Camellia Japonica oil contains more antioxidants than almost any other botanical oil!
The antioxidants in camellia oil fight free radicals and prevent the formation of lines and wrinkles. It is also beneficial in combating the effects of sun damage.
2. Deeply hydrates skin
Camellia oil is an excellent moisturizer that absorbs quickly into the skin. It helps lock in essential moisture, keeping your skin smooth and hydrated throughout the day.
The oil is also high in vitamins, minerals, and oleic acid (an omega-9 fatty acid). This nourishes the skin and gives it a vibrant, healthy glow.
3. Anti-aging properties
Thanks to its high antioxidant content, Camellia Japonica oil is one of the best anti-aging oils you can find. And because it is packed with nutrients and fatty acids, it helps improve skin elasticity and plumps the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
The result is skin that looks firmer, bouncier, and more youthful for an overall anti-aging effect.
4. Lightweight and non comedogenic
The best thing about camellia oil is that it’s a light oil that provides just the right amount of moisture without clogging your pores.
Camellia Japonica oil has a comedogenic rating of 1, which means it won’t clog pores and is a super skin softener.
How to Use Camellia Oil
Adding camellia oil to your beauty routine couldn’t be easier. Look for pure Camellia Japonica oil and apply a few drops to nourish the skin on your face and body. It is also excellent for moisturizing the cuticles and hair.
Just be sure to look for genuine Camellia Japonica oil (Tsubaki). This premium beauty oil should not be confused with more readily available camellia oils like Camellia Sinensis or Camellia Oleifera.
You can also find Camellia Japonica oil in our Contour Sleek Cellulite Firming Body Oil. The benefits of camellia oil go far beyond the face. Camellia is also excellent for rejuvenating the skin on the body – giving your legs, thighs, and booty an irresistible glow.
Contour Sleek blends Camellia Japonica oil with gotu kola and algae extract, helping to firm and tone trouble spots while leaving skin soft, smooth, and hydrated.