Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Quick Summary
- What Is Camellia Oil?
- Top 6 Benefits of Camellia Oil for Skin
- The History of Camellia Oil in Skincare
- How to Use Camellia Oil in Your Routine
- How to Choose the Best Camellia Oil
- Final Thoughts
- FAQs
Introduction: The 1000 Year Old Beauty Secret
Camellia oil has been a staple in East Asian skincare for centuries, prized for its ability to soften, soothe, and protect.
Lightweight, non-comedogenic, rich in oleic acid, natural squalene, and antioxidants. It mimics the skin’s natural lipids to protect and restore the skin barrier, making it a favorite for sensitive, reactive, and mature skin types.
Camellia oil is an ancient moisturizer with a rich story: one of geisha, samurai, pearl divers, and royal court rituals.
This blog dives into the history, science, and real skin benefits of camellia oil, and how to choose the right one for your routine.
Quick Summary
Camellia oil is one of the world’s most time-tested beauty oils, used for centuries across Japan, China, and Korea, and now backed by modern science.
- Ultra-light and non-comedogenic, perfect for any skin type; especially dry, mature skin, or acne prone skin.
- Rich in skin mimicking Omegas and natural squalene to deeply moisturize, strengthen the skin barrier, and prevent TEWL (transepidermal water loss).
- Packed with antioxidants vitamin E, polyphenols, and catechins to fight oxidative stress and premature aging.
- Calms redness and inflammation in sensitive or reactive skin.
- Softens fine lines and improves elasticity over time.
- Versatile oil that can be used multiple ways: face oil, oil cleanser, makeup prep, for gua sha, and more.
What Is Camellia Oil?
Camellia oil is a plant oil pressed from the seeds of camellia flowers, most commonly Camellia japonica, Camellia oleifera, or Camellia sinensis (the tea plant), all members of the Tea Family. These oils have been used in East Asia for over 1,000 years to protect, soothe, and beautify skin.
Tsubaki oil, the type traditionally used in Japanese beauty rituals, comes specifically from Camellia japonica. Not only did the Japanese use camellia oil for skincare, but also for hair care, and to clean and protect knives.
Camellia oleifera is also edible, often referred to as tea seed oil. With a composition similar to olive oil and a high smoke point, tea seed oil is the most important cooking oil in many parts of East Asia.
Top 6 Benefits of Camellia Oil for Skin
Camellia oil has been treasured for centuries for its lightweight texture, soothing effects, and barrier-repairing properties. But modern science now confirms just how deeply it supports sensitive, dry, or reactive skin. Here’s why this elegant oil deserves a place in your routine:
Rebuilds and Strengthens the Skin Barrier
Camellia oil is composed of up to 80% oleic acid, an Omega 9 fatty acid found in human sebum (your skins natural oil mix). It also contains squalene, another compound naturally present in our sebaceous glands.
These skin mimicking lipids make camellia oil uniquely compatible with skin and effective at repairing a damaged skin barrier. [1], [3], [6], [7]
- Seals micro-cracks in the skin barrier and prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Especially helpful for sensitive, dry, flaking, winter-damaged, irritated, or post-inflammatory skin.
- Supports healthy ceramide and lipid function. [1], [6]
Calms Inflammation and Redness
Traditionally used in Japanese, Korean, and Chinese medicine to soothe burns and chapped skin, camellia oil contains a complex of anti-inflammatory compounds that calm irritation.
Camellia oil helps reduce visible redness and discomfort, making it a go-to for reactive and sensitive skin. [2], [3] Its polyphenols and vitamin E help reduce oxidative stress, which is often a hidden trigger for redness, flares, or barrier breakdown.
- Contains polyphenols, triterpenes, and tannins with anti-inflammatory effects. [3], [4]
- Reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines often present in chronic skin irritation. [2], [4]
- Provides gentle relief for eczema-prone and easily irritated skin.
- Soothes post procedure skin.
Protects Against Premature Aging
Camellia oil contains catechins (the same antioxidants found in green tea), plus polyphenols, tocopherols (Vitamin E), and squalene, all of which neutralize free radicals that cause collagen breakdown and premature aging.
These antioxidants help protect skin from pollution, UV exposure, and oxidative stress, which are major causes of aging and hyperpigmentation. [3], [5], [6]
- Encourages long-term skin resilience and glow.
- Reduces the activity of collagen destroying proteins (matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)). [5], [6]
- Neutralizes free radicals to protect skin from UV-induced aging and signs of photodamage.
Moisturizes Without Clogging Pores
Despite being rich and luxurious, camellia oil is non-comedogenic and penetrates the skin quickly, easily, and deeply. This makes it one of the rare oils that provides powerful moisture without sitting heavy on the skin. [3], [4]
Its mild astringent properties (from tannins) may even help balance oily zones, a bonus for those with combination or acne-prone skin. [3]
- Fast-absorbing; leaves a silky, breathable finish without greasy residue.
- Non-comedogenic and skin mimicking, it deeply moisturizes the skin without clogging pores.
- Suitable for combination or acne-prone skin types.
Improves Texture and Elasticity
Camellia has been used for hundreds of years in Japan to maintain youthful, glowing skin well into older age.
Squalene, oleic acid, and natural vitamins work together to restore and maintain skin bounce and suppleness. [6]
- Softens skin texture and fine lines for an instant smooth and glowing appearance.
- Supports elasticity and collagen structure for supple and bouncy skin. [5], [6]
- Emollient barrier protection makes skin smoother over time with long lasting results.
Fades Scars and Promotes Skin Repair
In the East, camellia oil was noted in historical medical texts for use on burns, cuts, and scars.
Modern science has revealed why: camellia oil’s vitamin E and oleic acid content stimulate skin regeneration and improve texture in healing skin. [3], [4], [6]
- Helps smooth the texture of old scars and prevents new scars from forming.
- Aids in repair after acne, skin trauma, or clinical procedures.
- Supports new cell turnover without irritation or compromising the skin barrier.
The History of Camellia Oil in Skincare
Camellia oil is one of the oldest continuously used beauty oils in human history. Long before the word skincare existed, camellia oil was already an object of beauty, protection, and ritual. In Japan, Korea, and China, it was used to soften and shield both skin and hair.
Japan: The Birthplace of Tsubaki Beauty
In Heian-era Japan (794–1185 CE) aristocratic women of the Imperial Court valued white, luminous skin. They used camellia oil, called tsubaki-abura, to preserve their skin’s softness and shine. Applied after rice-bran cleansing, it helped retain moisture and created a porcelain glow admired in poetry and prose.
The popular hair style of the era was called suberakashi: long black hair, worn uncut and unbound. To maintain this shiny flowing hairstyle, camellia oil was combed through hair with hand-carved boxwood combs (tsuge gushi) for smoothness and shine.
By the Edo period (1603–1868), camellia oil was a daily necessity for many.
Kabuki actors used camellia oil to protect skin under thick stage makeup which was usually grease paint, notorious for cracking and chapping skin.
Sumo wrestlers used camellia oil to prevent and soothe scrapes and chaffing. And for maintaining the classic sumo top knot hairstyle.
For Geisha, known for their ageless beauty, camellia oil was a skincare essential, viewed as the superior moisturizer. Geisha houses (okiya) even passed down oral warnings: “Tsubaki protects. Mineral oils choke.”
Camellia oil was praised for not clogging pores, for sealing in moisture under rice powder makeup, and supporting the skin over long nights of performance. It was also used as oil cleanser to remove their heavy makeup, and as hair product to maintain their signature glossy shimada hairstyles.
Even the samurai used camellia oil to protect their faces and hands. They also used it to maintain their sleek hairstyle, because a well-groomed appearance was a part of bushidō- the warrior code. They even used camellia oil to polish their swords and to maintain their leather armor.
There is even legend that the Ama, Japan’s legendary free-diving women, used camellia oil for protection as early as the 8th century, recorded in the Man’yōshū (ca. 750 CE).
Passed matrilineally, the ritual endured for centuries. They apply camellia oil before plunging into icy ocean waters to harvest pearls, abalone, and seaweed. The oil shields them from wind, salt, and sun, and coats their hair to prevent drying. By the 1940s, over 6,000 Ama practiced this way. Today, fewer than 1,200 remain, but the tradition survives.
China: Herbal Legacy in Classical Medicine
In China ,camellia oil was both medicine and beauty tool. Herbal texts from the Han Dynasty era in China (202 BCE – 220 CE) describe camellia oil as yin-nourishing, valued by physicians for calming inflammation and replenishing moisture.
During the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), camellia oil, was used by noblewomen as both a hair tonic and skin moisturizer.
Camellia oil appears in regional bencao (herbal pharmacopeias) as a cooling, nourishing remedy for burns, scars, and irritated, or sun-damaged skin. It was also used to care for infants’ delicate skin.
Joseon Korea (1392–1897)
In Joseon-era Korea (1392–1897), camellia oil was blended with herbal tonics to support skin elasticity and moisture retention.
It was part of ritual cleansing routines among court ladies, concubines, and gisaeng courtesans, often combined with rice bran and warm water for glowing skin.
Camellia oil appeared in palace records and was often gifted to queens and brides alongside ginseng and pearl powder.
In Korean herbal texts it was recommended for protection against rashes and harsh winter dryness.
Cultural Symbolism & Modern Revival
Today camellia is most known in the west to gardeners for it’s beauty as an ornamental flower, and to lovers of luxury as a symbol of the Chanel fashion house.
But in the East, camellia is still a skincare essential. The camellia flower came to symbolize purity, resilience, and quiet beauty across Asia.
In the 20th century, Japanese companies re-popularized tsubaki oil as a premium beauty ingredient, while clinical studies continue to research the scientific reasons why it works so well.
How to Use Camellia Oil in Your Routine
Because camellia oil is so lightweight and non-greasy, it’s easy to layer into nearly any skincare routine.
- As a face oil: Apply 2–3 drops to damp skin after cleansing or after your serum.
- As a moisturizer booster: Add a drop to your cream to boost glow and occlusion.
- With gua sha or massage: Its glide and fast absorption make it ideal for facial tools.
- For oil cleansing: To remove makeup, sunscreen, or for double cleansing, massage into dry skin. Remove with water and optional cloth, follow with water based cleanser.
- Under makeup: Its silky texture acts like a primer, smoothing dry patches without pilling.
- Post-treatment: Ideal after retinoids, acids, or barrier disruption to calm and restore.
How to Choose the Best Camellia Oil
How a plant was grown and processed means the difference between an effective healing oil and an inactive, damaged, or contaminated oil. Sourcing matters deeply when it comes to purity, performance, and tradition.
Here’s what to look for when choosing the best camellia oil for your skin:
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Cold-Pressed & Unrefined:
The low heat technique of cold-pressed extraction preserves camellia’s fragile nutrients: polyphenols, vitamin E, and squalene.
Avoid solvent-extracted oils which can have chemical residues.
Choose minimally refined oils because chemical refinement strips away skin-beneficial compounds.
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Organic:
Organic certification ensures no pesticide or herbicide contamination is in the camellia seeds.
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Transparency:
Only purchase oils that have INCI label clarity (e.g., Camellia japonica seed oil vs. Camellia oleifera seed oil), country of origin, and extraction sourcing transparency.
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Single-Origin:
Avoid oils from mixed sources. Chose single origin oils from particular regions known for their high quality camellia oil.
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Freshness:
Because camellia oil is rich in antioxidants and unsaturated fats, it can degrade with light and air exposure. Choose oils stored in dark glass bottles, to preserve freshness and prevent oxidation.
Check the certificate of analysis for oil batches to check the date they were extracted.
Pro Tip: If an oil smells rancid, greasy, or sharp, it may be old or poorly stored. Camellia oil should smell neutral, faintly nutty, or like nothing at all.
Final Thoughts
Camellia oil is a centuries-old botanical with modern, science-backed benefits. From ancient palaces to your skincare shelf, it offers barrier repair, deep hydration, and gentle resilience in one featherlight drop.
If your skin craves nourishment without heaviness, or your barrier feels fragile and inflamed, camellia oil may be exactly what it’s been waiting for.
Looking for a formula that includes cold-pressed, organic Camellia japonica oil?
Our Holy Grail Face Oil features cold-pressed, organic camellia oil, alongside the world’s most potent regenerating botanicals, to restore your glow, repair your barrier, and calm sensitive skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is camellia oil good for sensitive skin?
Yes. it’s anti-inflammatory, barrier-repairing, and non-comedogenic. Perfect for sensitive, reactive skin. Read more on camellia for sensitive skin here.
Is camellia oil safe for acne-prone skin or combination skin?
Yes. Camellia oil is non-comedogenic, lightweight, and rich in anti-inflammatory compounds. It won’t clog pores and can even soothe irritation from breakouts. Camellia oil also contains tannins with mild astringent properties, that may help balance oily zones.
Does camellia oil brighten the skin?
While not a whitening agent, camellia oil’s antioxidants and fatty acids support skin repair and luminosity over time.
It can help brighten uneven tone and support post-inflammatory healing, which can improve the appearance of dark spots over time.
Can I use camellia oil every day?
Absolutely. Camellia oil is gentle enough for daily use, even on sensitive or post-procedure skin.
Does camellia oil expire?
Yes. Like most plant oils, camellia oil can oxidize. Choose a dark glass bottle, store it away from heat and light, and aim to use it within 6–12 months of opening.
Protip: If you store oils in the fridge you can extend their shelf life by a long time. Note that some oils will have fats that harden into solids if you keep them cold. This is completely normal and the solids will melt back at room tmeperature.
References
- Jiao S. Restorative effects of camellia oil on skin‑barrier function in a model of DNCB‑induced atopic dermatitis. European Journal of Histochemistry. 2025. link
- Kim S., et al. Anti‑inflammatory effects of Camellia japonica oil — inhibition of NF‑κB and AP‑1 signaling. BMB Reports. 2012. link
- Zhou L, Peng Y, Xu Z, Chen J, Zhang N, Liang T, Chen T, Xiao Y, Feng S, Ding C. The Antioxidant, Anti‑Inflammatory and Moisturizing Effects of Camellia oleifera Oil and Its Potential Applications. Molecules. 2024;29(8):1864. link
- Qin P. A critical review of the bioactive ingredients and biological functions of Camellia oleifera oil. Frontiers in Nutrition. 2024. link
- Chaikul P., et al. Melanogenesis Inhibitory and Antioxidant Effects of Tea Seed Oil (Camellia oleifera) in Cell Models. Molecules. 2017. link
- Jung E., et al. Effect of Camellia japonica oil on human type I procollagen production and skin barrier function. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2007. link
- Li Z, et al. Bioactive substances and therapeutic potential of camellia oil: A review. Food Research International. 2022. link
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