Back when I was pregnant with my 4th son I received some goodies from Time to Spa, one product being the Elemis Japanese Camillia Oil. I was most excited to see that this oil could be used for pregnancy massage because that child who was about to be born at 9.3lbs was doing a number on my skin. I was in some desperate need for relief and needed something intensely moisturizing.

What they say:

For many centuries Camellia Oil from Japan has been used for the care of nails, hair, scalp and combination skin. Easily absorbed and rich in plant collagen, it is ideal for preventing stretch marks. Improves elasticity, supports and nourishes all skin conditions. Lightly textured. Provides high levels of hydration to a dry skin. Ideal to use as a body oil. Perfect for pregnancy massage. Helps prevent stretch marks and reduce the formation of scar tissue. Use on the cuticles to strengthen nails. Ideal for baby massage.

The Camillia Oil had no real scent to it, which was fine with me as it didn’t interfere with the scents of the other lotions I was wearing on the rest of my body. The oil is nice and thick and absorbs nicely into your skin, but doesn’t leave a greasy residue behind. It did on the palms of my hands, but it was super easy to wash right off.

I definitely noticed such a big difference in how my belly felt. As this was my 4th child, the stretch marks were already well pronounced. However, they were so itchy and as this little boy continued to grow, they continued to stretch. The Japanese Camillia Oil was so moisturizing and took away all of that itchiness associated with stretch marks.

I know that Camillia Oil is also fabulous for your cuticles and hair, although I haven’t personally tried it (my hair is fickle when it comes to putting oil in my hair). Have you ever tried this oil? I’d love to hear your take on how it worked for you.

*Photo Credit: Time to Spa

Shannon Nelson has 4 boys and keeps sane by beauty blogging at A Girl’s Gotta Spa! and Makeup Minute.