Scientific studies have shown that camellia oil benefits the skin by reducing the visible signs of ageing (Jung et al., 2007) and demonstrating antibacterial activity (Kim et al., 2001), antioxidant properties (Onodera et al., 2006; Piao et al., 2011) and anti-allergic effects (Lee et al., 2008). It also shows no cytotoxic effects (Jung et al., 2007).
Skin ageing is associated with reduced levels of Type I collagen (the main structural component of the dermis and the extracellular matrix) and increased transepidermal water loss. Both of these problems can be improved through regular application of pure camellia oil (Jung et al., 2007).
Research (Jung et al., 2007) shows that camellia oil increases the activity of the gene responsible for producing Type I collagen by up to three times, significantly accelerating the synthesis of Type I procollagen, which later assembles into collagen molecules. Camellia oil also inhibits the secretion of cytokine TNF-alpha, a compound that breaks down Type 1 collagen in the skin. As a result, it helps restore the skin’s elasticity and reduce wrinkles, blemishes and stretch marks on the face. The same studies have also demonstrated that it significantly decreases transepidermal water loss, making it an exceptional anti-wrinkle, anti-blemish and anti-ageing oil.
