Skincare Ingredients 101: Camellia Japonica Flower Extract

Every day our skin comes in contact with environmental aggressors, including the sun, pollution, cigarette smoke,, infrared radiation, and extreme hot and cold temperatures. Exposure to these elements triggers premature aging and inflammatory responses such as fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, loss of tone, dullness, atopic dermatitis, and acne. While many skincare ingredients address these issues (think retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide), are you familiar with Camellia japonica flower extract? You may be if you’ve jumped on the K-beauty bandwagon as it can be found in everything from facial mists to face oils. However, as it’s not as widely known in the States, perhaps you have yet to discover why this incredible ingredient is an anti-aging powerhouse.

What is Camellia Japonica Flower Extract?

Also known as Tsubaki, Camellia japonica is native to Korea, China, and Japan. As the name suggests, this buzzy skincare ingredient is extracted from the vibrant red camellia flowers of the camellia plant. It’s a rich source of palmitic and omega-6 linoleic fatty acids, as well as several anti-aging polyphenol antioxidants. Camellia japonica is a popular garden plant in Japan. It’s considered the symbol of eternal beauty, making it a perfect extract to be added to beauty product preparations.

Camellia Japonica Flower Extract Skin Benefits

Camellia japonica oil is harvested from the plant’s seeds and is traditionally known for its remarkable ability to retain moisture and penetrate the deepest layers of the skin. It has a composition similar to sebum, the oil naturally produced by human skin, and delivers a tremendous amount of phytonutrients. 

While the Camellia japonica plant has been used in Asia to promote health and wellness for a long time, in recent years, it was discovered in other parts of the world that this exotic oil possesses anti-inflammatory and collagen-boosting properties. It’s also an abundant source of vitamins (A, B, E) and minerals. It’s known for its ability to protect the skin from aging and sun damage as it has impressive anti-pollution, antioxidant, and soothing properties. 

Camellia japonica flower also boosts the presence of several antioxidant enzymes that naturally occur in the skin, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. These enzymes help the skin defend itself against external aggressors that cause premature aging. Additionally, Camellia japonica possesses lipids with incredible soothing and moisturizing properties to help reduce the appearance of dryness and fine lines.

When To Incorporate Camellia Japonica Flower Extract In Your Routine

While Camellia japonica extract is commonly seen in camellia oil, a fast-absorbing, non-comedogenic moisturizer that deeply penetrates the skin to improve elasticity and tone, it can be incorporated into other skincare products as well, from cleansers to moisturizers to serums. Experiment with what formulas — and when to apply them — based on your skin type and concerns. If you do opt to go the oil route, here’s the best way to apply it, so you don’t use too much product — a little goes a long way. 

• Pump or pour a small amount of the oil into the palm of your hand.
• Gently rub your palms together to spread the oil into a thin, even layer.
• Gently pat — don’t rub the oil over your face and neck, so you don’t break down the ingredients. Continue until absorbed. 
• If you’re following up the application with makeup, wait a few minutes before applying. 

Camellia japonica flower extract and its nourishing skin oil have been a treasured beauty secret by Japanese women and the ancient Geisha for centuries. Yet, it has just started to gain popularity around the world in recent years. Notable benefits include exceptional antioxidant protection, remarkable moisturizing and anti-inflammatory capabilities, improved elasticity and tone, and an overall improved complexion. As it’s non-comedogenic, it’s suitable for most skin types, and as it’s found in numerous kinds of skincare formulations, it’s easier than ever to incorporate it into your routine.