camellia-oil-benefits

Camellia oil benefits

It has been an integral part of the Asian cosmetic routine since the 17th century. A true beauty ally for skin and hair, camellia oil excels in its softening and protective properties. Focus on the uses and benefits of this concentrate of youth.

 

The origins of this exceptional vegetable oil

Camellia is a flowering plant native to eastern and southern Asia and belongs to the Theaceae family. According to botanists, there are between 100 and 250 species of camellias throughout the world. If most of them are ornamental, some have a food or cosmetic use. This is the case of the Chinese camellia, or Camellia sinensis, whose dried leaves are used to make tea.

Camellia oil, on the other hand, often comes from Camellia oleifera. By cold-pressing its seeds, a natural vegetable oil is obtained that is particularly nourishing and moisturizing for the skin - and quite edible, by the way. It is sometimes referred to as "tea seed oil". In China and Japan, women use it daily to maintain their skin, which has a divine velvet finish.

It should not be confused with tea tree oil, which is actually the other name for tea tree oil. Known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, it is used sparingly to neutralize acne pimples or mycosis. On the other hand, it is toxic when ingested pure.

oil-camellia

 

 

Benefits of camellia oil

Containing approximately 80% oleic acid (omega-9), camellia oil has a lipid profile quite similar to that of olive oil. Apart from its nutritional properties, it is distinguished in cosmetics by its moisturizing and nourishing properties, which are particularly beneficial for dry, cracked and devitalized skin.

Emollient, it softens the zones prone to irritations and eczema. Very pleasant also, its fast penetration which confers a rather dry touch to him.

Its many antioxidants, including vitamin A (retinol), vitamin E (tocopherol) and polyphenols, protect the skin barrier from external aggressions, such as pollution or UV rays. In Asia, it is used in combination with rice water to keep the skin soft and velvety even when exposed to the sun. Its modest linoleic acid content (omega-6), associated with its softening squalenes, would also slow down skin aging.

By restoring the elasticity of the skin, it would avoid the occurrence of stretch marks. It is used as a preventive measure during pregnancy.

Very versatile, camellia oil gives life to dry hair and strengthens brittle nails.

 

camellia-oil

 

Camellia oil and acne: a good idea?

If you suffer from imperfections or oily skin, camellia oil is not necessarily the best choice. This one can indeed prove to be comedogenic. Instead, opt for hazelnut or jojoba oil, possibly with a little black cumin oil added, for their rebalancing properties.

 

Camellia oil for the face

Alone or mixed with essential oils, camellia oil makes an excellent day care for the skin. It acts deep down on the marked areas of the face and neck, where it has an anti-aging effect. Retinol stimulates collagen production, while tocopherol neutralizes the action of free radicals.

For a quick application, place 10 drops of camellia oil in the palm of your hands. Warm it up by rubbing your two palms together, then gently massage it into your cleansed face, paying special attention to the eye area. You can also boost its antioxidant capacity by adding a few drops of kiwi CO2 extract.

Are you a fan of slow cosmetics? Start making a homemade serum with softening and purifying properties: mix 30 ml of camellia oil, 30 ml of sesame oil, 30 ml of prickly pear oil and 10 drops of palmarosa essential oil, and apply daily after washing.

 

Camellia oil for hair

Camellia oil is not limited to facial care, far from it! Applied to the hair area, it restores damaged and split ends. As a mask, it repairs dry hair and restores its strength and shine. It also has an anti-dandruff effect.

To make styling easier, coat your hair with camellia oil and leave it on in a warm towel for 30 minutes to 1 hour - even overnight if possible. Then rinse thoroughly. No more untangleable knots!

For the more patient, here is also a recipe for a repairing balm that will regenerate your hair: emulsify 1 tablespoon of camellia oil, 1 tablespoon of sal or shea butter, and 5 drops of patchouli essential oil. Heat a small amount of this mixture in your hands and apply gently, focusing on the ends of your hair.

 

Camellia oil for nails

On the beauty side, we have to admit that our tea seed oil literally takes things in hand! If your nails are weakened, massage them with a drop per finger, not forgetting the cuticles, until complete penetration.

 

Where to buy camellia oil?

Camellia oil can be found in some parapharmacies and organic stores. You can also find it in online stores dedicated to cosmetics.

To make the most of its benefits, turn to a 100% organic oil from a first cold pressing.

 

buy-camellia-oil