Camellia (Organic)

Camellia seed oil has been used for culinary, ornamental, cosmetic, and medicinal purposes for over a century. Otherwise known as “white tea” seed oil thanks to the leaves producing the majority of caffeinated teas enjoyed around the world, it's a staple crop for both the food and beauty industry and is one of the four oil-bearing trees alongside coconut, olive, and palm. 

In skincare, it's famed for being a beauty elixir of Japan's geishas, who use it instead of water to cleanse their face. 

Produced from the seeds of the camellia flower which is native to Japan and China, this flowering shrub is packed full of essential vitamins and minerals, and it offers a big boost of antioxidants and fatty acids. Plus, it has a molecular weight similar to sebum which allows it to absorb easily. It's no wonder it has remained a popular choice since ancient times. 

There are more than 100 species of camellia, but the primary types utilised for skincare products are japonica, oleifera, and sinensis. Of these three, oleifera is a popular choice due to its more emollient properties. While it has a heavier molecular weight than the other varieties, the pale yellow oil is non-comedogenic meaning it will not clog pores, and it is gentle, lightweight, and versatile.

Camellia oleifera contains vitamins like A, B, and E, minerals (including phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium), omega 3, 6, and 9, and can have over 85% oleic acid which makes it a powerful replenishing ingredient. It also offers a lot of beneficial qualities that improve the texture and overall health of both hair and skin.