What it is
This extract is obtained from the seeds of Camellia japonica, the ornamental camellia long cultivated in Japan and Korea. The seeds are rich in lipids and minor antioxidant constituents, so the extract is used to condition skin and contribute a softened, comfortable feel. In sunscreens it generally serves as a supporting botanical alongside the emollient and filter systems.
Safety & warnings
Camellia seed materials are generally well tolerated and have a long history of cosmetic and traditional use in East Asia. Botanical extracts can occasionally cause sensitization in predisposed individuals. The extract is used at low levels and is not regarded as a strong comedogen, though lipid-rich camellia materials suit some acne-prone users better than others.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; derived from the seeds of Camellia japonica, a plant traditionally cultivated in East Asia, especially Japan and Korea.
Questions everyone asks
Is this the same plant as the tea camellia?
It is a closely related camellia species (Camellia japonica), distinct from the tea plant Camellia sinensis, though both belong to the camellia genus.
What does it do in skincare?
It conditions and softens skin and provides antioxidant character as a supporting botanical.