Botanical Name: Camellia japonica.
Family Name: Theaceae.
Common Name: Japanese Camellia,
INCI: Camellia japonica Seed (Tsubaki) Oil.
Extraction Method: Cold Pressed.
Parts Used: Seeds.
Appearance: Yellow.
Country of Origin: Japan.
Comodogenic index: 1
Tsubaki seed oil, also known as Camellia japonica oil, is one of Japan’s best-kept beauty secrets, cherished for centuries as a symbol of elegance, health, and timeless beauty. Pressed from the seeds of the Camellia japonica plant, this golden oil has a unique molecular composition that makes it highly compatible with human skin and hair. Lightweight, fast-absorbing, and rich in antioxidants, Tsubaki oil has been a cornerstone of Japanese skincare, haircare, and culinary tradition.
From the geisha of Kyoto to modern beauty enthusiasts worldwide, Tsubaki oil continues to captivate with its ability to moisturize, protect, and rejuvenate naturally.
Camellia japonica is an evergreen shrub native to Japan, Korea, and parts of China. Known as “Tsubaki” in Japanese, its beautiful flowers have made it a cultural icon — a symbol of purity, refinement, and devotion.
The use of Tsubaki oil dates back over a thousand years. During Japan’s Heian period (794–1185), noblewomen used the oil to keep their long hair smooth and lustrous. Samurai were known to apply it to their sword blades to prevent rust. Over time, Tsubaki oil became synonymous with Japanese haircare rituals, contributing to the sleek, shining hair often celebrated in Japanese art and literature.
Production and Extraction:
Traditionally, Tsubaki oil is cold-pressed from the seeds of Camellia japonica to preserve its delicate nutrients. The process involves:
1. Harvesting ripe camellia seeds in winter.
2. Cleaning and drying the seeds.
3. Cold pressing or expeller pressing to extract the golden oil.
4. Filtering to achieve a pure, clear product with a mild, pleasant aroma.
Cold pressing ensures that the oil retains its maximum concentration of fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants without chemical solvents.
Chemical Composition and Key Properties:
Tsubaki seed oil is renowned for its unique fatty acid profile, which closely resembles the sebum naturally produced by human skin. Its key components include:
-Oleic Acid (Omega-9) – 75–85% of the oil. Deeply penetrates skin and hair, providing lasting moisture.
-Linoleic and Palmitic Acids – Support barrier repair and help lock in hydration.
-Squalene – A natural antioxidant and emollient, protecting against oxidative stress.
-Vitamin E (Tocopherols) – Neutralizes free radicals, preventing premature aging.
-Polyphenols and Catechins – Offer anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.
Its light texture, non-greasy feel, and oxidative stability make it ideal for cosmetic formulations.
Main constituents of fatty acids:
1)-Oleic Acid: 75-90%
2)-Palmitic Acid: 4-12%
3)-Linoleic Acid: 2-5%
4)-Stearic Acid: 1-4%
Skincare Applications:
Tsubaki oil is celebrated as a multi-purpose beauty oil for face and body:
1. Deep Moisturization
Thanks to its high oleic acid content, it penetrates deeply into the skin, leaving it silky and supple. Unlike heavier oils, it doesn’t leave a sticky residue, making it perfect for both day and night use.
2. Anti-Aging Benefits
Rich in antioxidants and squalene, Tsubaki oil helps combat free radicals, improves elasticity, and softens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Its ability to restore skin’s natural barrier function makes it a valuable ally against dryness and environmental damage.
3. Soothing and Healing
Its anti-inflammatory properties can calm irritation, redness, and sensitivity. Traditionally, it was applied to minor cuts, burns, and even insect bites to promote healing.
4. Makeup Removal
Its lightweight texture allows it to dissolve makeup gently, including waterproof products, without stripping the skin.
Hair and Scalp Care:
One of the most famous uses of Tsubaki oil is in hair care. For centuries, Japanese women have massaged it into their scalps and applied it to their hair to maintain strength and shine.
Strengthens Hair Shaft – Penetrates deeply, reducing protein loss and breakage.
Restores Shine – Coats hair with a silky layer that reflects light, giving it a glossy finish.
Scalp Health – Nourishes the scalp, helping reduce dryness and flakiness.
Heat and UV Protection – Forms a protective barrier against heat styling and sun damage.
Tsubaki oil can be used as a pre-shampoo treatment, leave-in conditioner, or finishing oil for styling.
Body and Nail Care:
Beyond the face and hair, Tsubaki oil can be applied to hands, nails, and cuticles to prevent dryness and brittleness. It’s also excellent as a full-body massage oil, offering a luxurious, spa-like experience.
Comodogenic index:
-Comedogenic level 0: it is non-comedogenic and does not cause pore clogging.
-Comedogenic level 1: there is a small (very low) possibility that the ingredient is comedogenic and may clog pores.
-Comedogenic level 2: in most cases, it will not clog pores. The possibility that it may clog pores is moderate to low.
-Comedogenic level 3: they have a medium chance of clogging pores, depending especially on the skin type.
-Comedogenic level 4: the chance of clogging pores, regardless of the skin type, is quite high.
-Comedogenic level 5: they tend, in almost all cases, to clog skin pores. In fact, very few people tolerate the oils found here.
