Camellia Oil: A Favourite Oil for Wrinkles & Fine Lines!
Time to find a facial oil that is exquisite, provides wonderful skin benefits, feels incredibly luxurious, goes a long way on application and, believe it or not, is QUITE INEXPENSIVE!
Want t know more about this oil? Keep on reading!
As an organic formulator I’m always on the lookout for the best oils
I’m always on the lookout for that EXTRA SPECIAL oil that can take care of not only my hydration and luminosity but also OVERALL SKIN HEALTH! I love the journey of ageing and appreciate the character that comes with it, but I do believe that our skin should always be nourished and radiant.
As an organic skincare formulator I know that a well-hydrated complexion isn’t just about appearance – it’s a sign of healthy, resilient skin that can better protect itself and maintain its natural functions.
I’m not chasing eternal youth, but rather that healthy glow that comes from giving your skin the care and nourishment it deserves at every stage of life.
Meet camellia sinensis oil
Camellia sinensis oil is a highly specialised facial oil and has been popular in the East for skin and hair care for thousands of years.
And, believe me, for a reason!
High in monounsaturated oleic acid (85%), this is truly an excellent oil for a facial oil as oleic acid has wonderful properties for the skin: it’s very moisturising, regenerates the skin, offers anti-inflammatory properties, assists nutrients through the skin barrier and helps cell regeneration.
And if that’s not enough, there’s the added bonus of this being an inexpensive beauty oil.
What more could you ask for?
I’ve totally fallen in love with this incredible oil, and I’m excited to explain why below.
What’s so special about camellia oil when it comes to wrinkles and fine lines?
Check the properties out. It contests against rosehip oil, argan oil, jojoba oil and marula oil.
These are WONDERFUL for wrinkles, but below I will show you how Camellia Sinensis takes the lead when it comes to using it as part of your skincare routine.
First – the benefits. Check these out!
1. Rich in antioxidants
Camellia oil is packed with antioxidants, particularly vitamin E and polyphenols, which help neutralise free radicals (free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause premature ageing).
Here’s EXACTLY how camellia oil works: Camellia oil contains about 80% oleic acid, which carries vitamin E and polyphenols deep into the skin.
2. Deep moisturisation
This oil is an excellent moisturiser because of its high oleic acid content (around 80-90%). It penetrates deep into the skin, helping to retain moisture, which is crucial for keeping the skin plump and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Here’s EXACTLY how camellia oil works: The high concentration of oleic acid in camellia oil allows it to penetrate the stratum corneum (outer layer of skin), where it forms a semi-occlusive layer. This reduces transepidermal water loss, keeping skin hydrated for longer.
3. Boosts collagen production
Camellia oil contains squalene, a compound that supports skin’s natural collagen production. As we know, collagen is ESSENTIAL for maintaining skin elasticity and firmnes. So, yes, this helps to prevent and reduce wrinkles.
Here’s EXACTLY how camellia oil works: Camellia oil’s squalene content stimulates fibroblasts in the dermis. These cells then increase their production of collagen and elastin, improving skin’s structure and elasticity!
4. Lightweight and non-greasy
The greasiness of oils is usually a problem with many of us! As I have grown older I seem to enjoy the feeling of oils on my face. BUT THIS IS NOT THE CASE WITH EVERYONE. Unlike some oils, camellia oil is LIGHTWEIGHT and absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy residue! You might find this such a bonus! Those who are using castor oil might want to give camellia a try as castor oil (while fantastic) might be too thick for some (also can give problems if you have sensitive skin, camellia is gentle). Because it is so lightweight, it is suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin – meaning it won’t clog pores.
Here’s EXACTLY how camellia oil works: Camellia oil’s molecular structure is similar to human sebum. This allows it to be rapidly absorbed into the skin’s lipid layers without leaving residue on the surface. This is such a plus for any oil!
5. Anti-inflammatory properties
The oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and contribute to a more even skin tone. This will give you LUMINOSITY and a sense of “aliveness” to your skin (your skin might be on the dull side and you might not even have noticed!). Just so you know, inflammation can accelerate the ageing process, so reducing inflammation will help in preventing wrinkles and fine lines across the face, neck, etc.
Here’s EXACTLY how camellia oil works: Camellia oil contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (which help regulate the skin’s inflammatory response). The result is that redness of the skin is reduced and irritation soothed.
6. Supports skin barrier function
Camellia oil helps strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. It will protect your skin from environmental damage which as you know leads to ageing skin.
Here’s EXACTLY how camellia oil works: The linoleic acid in camellia oil mixes with your skin’s natural oils. This helps create a stronger protective layer on your skin. As a result, your skin is better shielded from pollution, etc, and keeps moisture in more effectively!
If you’re interested, HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED Camellia oil (inexpensive, organic).
How Camellia Oil Made it to the Top of My Facial Oils List
By now I hope I have convinced you that this is a FANTASTIC oil to add to your skincare routine.
But, nerdy as I am when it comes to my oils and oil for skin composition, let’s compare it against the BEST oils for mature and ageing skin (for fine lines and wrinkles).
You might be surprised by the results!
Camellia oil vs other oils for wrinkles/fine lines
Here’s why camellia oil stands out (for me, these points are VERY important!):
- Easy to use: Works well for both day and night (unlike rosehip oil, for example, which might make your skin more sensitive to sun).
- Feels WONDERFUL on skin: It is oh-so-light! and soaks in quickly (not thick and heavy like pomegranate seed, marula oil or castor oil).
- Suits most skin types: This is a WINNING point for me. Many of my clients complain about oils not suiting their skin type. Camellia doesn’t clog your pores, so it’s good for oily, combination, or acne-prone skin. Amazing.
- Packed with good stuff! This oil is packed with antioxidants that fight skin damage, even more than argan or jojoba oil!. Another winning point.
- Helps keep skin young: Helps boost collagen, which keeps skin firm and bouncy.
One more thing, Camellia has a longer shelf life than many other oils due to its high content of oleic acid (it won’t go rancid as quick as some other oils like argan or rosehip).
TOP TIP! Add a few drops of Vitamin E to your oils to extend their shelf life!
Let’s compare now Camellia oil with other TOP CONTENDERS!
- Rosehip oil: Great for night use, but camellia is safer for daytime.
- Pomegranate seed oil: Too thick to use alone, while camellia is just right.
- Argan oil: Similar benefits, but camellia is lighter and probably better for wrinkles because it has higher antioxidant content, particularly polyphenols.
- Jojoba oil: Camellia does more for anti-ageing and calming skin.
- Marula oil: Camellia is lighter and better for oily or acne-prone skin.
As you can see, my beloved camellia oil is a good all-rounder!
How camellia has made it to my number 1 oil in the last few months
So, having looked at the above (I have over 40 oils at home! – all truly wonderful!), I must say that in the last few months, slowly but surely, camellia oil has become my favourite facial oil. If I were to stay on a desert island for 3 months and had to choose 1 oil from my collection, I have to say camellia oil would be the one coming with me to the island.
Not only do I use a lot of different oils on my skin, but I also make my own lovely blends (I’ll publish a post soon to give you some oil blend ideas). The main difference regarding camellia oil is the way it feels on my skin. It has LUXURY written all over it: when applying it, it feels like I’m putting on a silky layer of some sort of expensive, wondrous silicone.
Basically, this oil is just so addictive! Besides how silky it feels with its silicone-like texture – which is unlike any other oil I’ve tried – I just LOVE LOVE LOVE the way it feels on my skin when I spread it with the tips of my fingers.
It is most definitely VERY different to all other oils in the way it feels and sits on the skin. It spreads so beautifully and with such elegant glide; it doesn’t feel greasy at all and at the same time somehow manages to have excellent grip as well as great viscosity which means a little of the oil goes a really long way.
The texture is completely different to the other oils and I just can’t explain how beautiful it feels, this is something you’ll have to experience yourself.
Used alone is a FANTASTIC facial oil (a favourite of many stars according to Naturally Thinking) and basically I’m totally under a spell with it because of its incredible silky feeling.
(Gucci Westman replaced silicone for coconut oil & camellia oil)
Note: I found out famous makeup artist Gucci Westman from Westman Atelier replaced silicone in one of her products for coconut oil and camellia oil. Good for you Gucci! Here’s the clip where she mentions it (from minute 1.05).
Here’s a little more about the oil in case you’re interested
There are different varieties of camellia which all produce similar but distinct oils (tsubaki oil, tea seed oil, camellia oil, Camellia sinensis, Camellia oleifera, Camellis negra, Camellia sasanqua and more). The oil is pressed from the seeds and has been popular in Japan for skin and hair care as well as cooking for thousands of years.
The two most notable things about this great oil are:
- The high contents of oleic acid (omega-9)
- The oil is high in tannins similar to the tannins found in a cup of tea which make it astringent and doesn’t clog pores.
This is why camellia oil is such a great choice when compared to other oils that are high in oleic acid which can be problematic for oily skin.
Getting started using camellia oil
Here’s MY RECOMMENDED Camellia oil (for the price and the quality).
If this is the first time you’re considering using facial oils, then the best approach would be to apply the oil before your moisturiser (or as a replacement for your moisturiser).
I use it in the morning or night, or both morning and night, depending on my mood. Sometimes I apply facial oil up to 5 times a day!
At first, it might feel strange to add just oil to your face if you’re not used to it, but believe me, in no time you’ll become an addict like me. Try it for a week, and you’ll see in week two how you just add more of the product as a couple of drops won’t seem to be enough.
Add the oil after cleansing and toning or after washing your face.
How to apply
Add a few drops to the palm of your hand, rub your hands together, and apply the oil evenly to your face, neck, and décolletage.
I also rub the back of my hands once I’ve finished applying the oil to my face and neck to make sure I make the most of whatever is left on my hands after application!
Create a truly luxurious serum using camellia oil & sea buckthorn berry oil!
Camellia oil is wonderful on its own, but you can create a luxurious blend by mixing it with sea buckthorn berry oil.
Sea buckthorn berry oil is a fantastic addition to any facial oil blend. It’s rich in vitamin E and palmitoleic acid, which are ABSOLUTELY GREAT for mature skin.
Its unique red-orange colour comes from carotenoids, which act as antioxidants.
This oil stands out for its:
- Antioxidant properties
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Cell regeneration capabilities
- Moisturising qualities
- Ability to soften skin and restore barrier function
While it’s not cheap, sea buckthorn berry oil is a powerful addition to your skincare routine. It can help with redness, inflammation, and even burnt skin. Just use a small amount, as it can stain the skin.
This is up to you. On its own, Camellia will DO THE JOB. But, if you’re like me, an oil-addict then you’ll want to give this LUXURIOUS serum a try.
HOW TO MAKE THIS LUXURIOUS SERUM
Here’s a simple recipe for a camellia and sea buckthorn berry oil serum (Always patch test before applying to your face, especially if you have sensitive skin!):
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) Camellia oil
- 15-20 drops Sea buckthorn berry oil
Instructions:
- In a small, clean glass bottle, pour in the camellia oil.
- Add the sea buckthorn berry oil.
- Close the bottle tightly and gently roll it between your hands to mix the oils.
Usage:
- Apply 3-4 drops to clean, slightly damp skin.
- Gently massage into your face, neck, and décolletage.
- Use morning and/or night, before or instead of your regular moisturiser.
(Notes):
- This recipe makes about 45 ml of serum, which should last 6-8 weeks with daily use.
- Adjust the ratio if you prefer, but remember that sea buckthorn oil is potent and can stain skin if used in large amounts.
- Store in a cool, dark place to preserve the oils’ beneficial properties.
Sea buckthorn berry oil is a SPECIALITY facial oil, making this serum a high-end product, a TRULY LUXURIOUS blend. Even though sea buckthorn berry oil can be expensive this will make such a great gift for anyone.
Wrapping up
Camellia oil is truly a gem in the world of skincare. Its UNIQUE blend of moisturising properties, quick absorption, and wonderful nutrients make it a fantastic choice for our mature, ageing skin.
I am truly enamoured with this oil and I for one am FUSSY because I work with oils all the time.
So there you go! If you’re wanting to do something around those fine lines and wrinkles, camellia oil might be the answer you’ve been searching for.
