Tsubaki Oil

Tsubaki oil, also called camellia oil or camellia nut oil, is pressed from the seeds of the camellia flower. The leaves of the camellia plant are used to make teas. This oil has many different uses, from oiling swords to prevent rust, to cooking, and it has various cosmetic applications. It is not really scented unless you buy it fresh from Japan and it will have a light flowery scent.

The Camelllia plant.

Geisha use tsubaki oil for caring for their skin. With just a few drops and the warmth of the hands, it can be rubbed onto the face as a moisturizer. The oil is relatively light, doesn't clog pores, and eventually is absorbed into the skin. It contains vitamins A, C, and E, and is said to lighten spots, block UV rays, and prevent wrinkles. It can also be used to gently remove makeup by applying a drop to the eye area and wiping off with a cotton pad.

Sumo wrestlers use tsubaki oil to make their signature hair style. Tsubaki oil makes a great hair conditioner. It smooths the hair with just a few drops. It is also an ingredient in many shampoos and conditioners, such as the Shiseido Tsubaki line.

I use this every night before I go to sleep. I pat some all over my face, wipe some on my eyelashes to condition them, and dab a little extra under my eyes and my smile creases. I put any leftover oil on my lips and my hands to moisturize my cuticles. It really is a nice multipurpose oil!