Unlocking the hidden value of Camellia oleifera: A cosmetic perspective on oil by-products

Camellia oleifera seed oil has been extensively used in China for centuries, both in culinary traditions and cosmetic applications. The oil is extracted from the seeds of the Camellia oleifera tree, and its production generates several by-products. Among these, the Camellia oleifera fruit shells (COFS) and Camellia oleifera seed shells (COSS) are agricultural residues, while the Camellia oleifera seed cake (COSC) is a process-derived by-product obtained after oil extraction. One of the most effective strategies to significantly reduce the environmental footprint of camellia oil production is the valorization of these by-products. The aim of this study is to explore and identify high value-added cosmetic applications for these by-products. The COFS were micronized to produce an ultra-fine powder with mattifying properties, suitable for use in cosmetic makeup formulations. Cellulose extracted from the COFS was used to create preliminary fibers, offering potential for textile applications. The COSS were dried, sterilized, and ground to be used both as a natural exfoliating agent in skincare products and as a biobased alternative to plastic in cosmetic packaging. Finally, proteins extracted from COSC were hydrolyzed to generate peptides with demonstrated anti-aging biological activity on the skin. Additionally, saponins isolated from COSC exhibited stabilizing and emulsifying properties, making them valuable for incorporation into skincare formulations. Traditionally, Camellia oleifera is cultivated solely for its oil used in cosmetics. However, by adopting a more sustainable and resource-efficient model, the same crop can provide not only this primary ingredient but also six additional cosmetic ingredients from its by-products. Publication History Article published online: 05 March 2026 © 2026. Thieme. All rights reserved. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Oswald-Hesse-Straße 50, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany