4 HAIR AND SKIN BENEFITS OF CAMELLIA OIL

1. Camellia oil contributes to a healthy scalp and hair

Hairstylists have caught on to the magic of camellia oil. “It’s so lightweight and absorbs in seconds, so there’s no heaviness or greasy residue,” says Stephen Thevenot, a hairstylist at the David Mallet salon in New York City. “It’s great for smoothing split ends and flyaways: just rub a drop or two between your hands—a little goes a long way—then skim over the length of your hair. I also love it as an overnight moisturizing scalp treatment that you massage in, then shampoo out the next morning.” To experience the benefits of camellia oil every time you wash your hair, try MyKirei by KAO Nourishing Shampoo and Conditioner, which pairs the oil with vitamin-rich rice water to moisturize and gently detangle hair without weighing it down.

2. Camellia oil may help strengthen hair

When hair is well nourished, it’s less vulnerable to breakage and damage. Camellia oil’s blend of proteins (which fortify strands), glycerides (which help prevent moisture loss), and vitamin E (which moisturizes) add up to make it a superb conditioning agent that may help strands become more resilient, resulting in overall healthier hair.

3. Camellia oil protects against environmental-induced damage

“Camellia oil is high in polyphenols, which are plant compounds that help calm inflammation and have powerful antioxidants to fight free radical damage,” says Dr. Zeichner. The oil also boasts vitamins A, C, D, and E, which have antioxidant properties that can help fight off the free radicals triggered by environmental aggressors like UV rays and pollution that contribute to weakened hair and aging skin. A study on camellia japonica extract found that, when applied topically, it provides excellent protection against pollutant-induced skin damage.

4. Camellia oil is both incredibly moisturizing and super lightweight

Thanks to its high concentration of essential fatty acids, camellia japonica is an outstanding hydrator. Because it’s a dry oil that absorbs almost instantly, it won’t make hair greasy or clog pores. “Camellia oil is rich in proteins and essential fatty acids including oleic acid—a great emollient with anti-inflammatory properties—plus linoleic acid and palmitic acid, which help the skin hold in moisture,” says Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York. One study showed that camellia japonica helps reduce trans-epidermal water loss in the skin, meaning it helps the skin retain moisture throughout the day.