Ingredient

Organic Camellia Japonica Oil

Camellia Japonica

Benefits

Lightweight, Hydrating, Rejuvanating

A lightweight oil that encourages soft and supple skin, organic camellia japonica oil has long been a favoured ingredient in Japanese cosmetics.

There are well over 200 species of Camellia, a flowering plant native to eastern and southern Asia that blooms in winter. Camellia’s pretty rose-like blossoms usually grow in shades of pink or white, making it a popular ornamental plant. Different varieties of the plant can be used for everything from tea to cosmetic oils. 

What are the benefits of organic camellia japonica oil?

• Lightweight
• Hydrating
• Rejuvanates

Organic camellia japonica oil is rich in fatty acids that support our skin’s barrier function and leave the skin with a velvety smooth texture. Despite being deeply moisturising, its lightweight quality means that our skin and hair absorb camellia oil easily without blocking the pores. It is almost odourless and is generally suitable for most skin types, even those prone to sensitivity.

The use of camellia japonica as a cosmetic oil dates back centuries in Japan, where geisha traditionally used the oil to remove makeup and cleanse the skin. It was even written about in one of the oldest known novels in the world, The Tale of Genji, which talks about women using the oil in their hair.

Where does Lush source organic camellia japonica oil?

Lush purchases organic camellia japonica oil from Lush Japan, who source the oil from Toshima Island, a remote Japanese island covered in camellia forests. There, the flowers are grown using traditional methods without the use of pesticides. The camellia flowers are gathered when they naturally begin to fall, usually from late February to March. The ripe seeds are then harvested, dried, and finally pressed to extract the oil.