Healthy Skin
Castor oil – a beauty hero or just another TikTok fad?
Castor oil is doing the rounds on social media at the moment. But is it something we should actually be incorporating into our beauty routines? Here, Liz Earle explains what you need to know…
When it comes to natural beauty remedies, castor oil has stood the test of time. This thick, nutrient-rich oil has been used for centuries to nourish skin, strengthen hair, and even promote healing.
Derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communisplant, castor oil is packed with ricinoleic acid, a unique fatty acid that boasts impressive hydrating, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Whether you’re looking to improve skin tone, encourage hair growth or protect your skin barrier, this oil could be the multi-tasking hero you never knew you needed.
Is castor oil good for our hair?
While many of us have heard about castor oil as a natural remedy for hair growth, does it really work? While scientific research is still catching up with anecdotal claims, this natural oil contains compounds that may support stronger, healthier hair in several key ways.
Encourages hair growth and prevents loss
Castor oil is often recommended as a natural solution for thinning hair and there’s some science to support its benefits. The high concentration of ricinoleic acid has been found to improve blood circulation to the scalp, ensuring that hair follicles receive the nutrients and oxygen needed for optimal growth.
Additionally, studies suggest that ricinoleic acid may inhibit prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) – an enzyme linked to androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness). This means castor oil could potentially help slow hair loss and create an environment where hair can grow more effectively.
Deeply moisturises and strengthens hair strands
This oil is a natural humectant, meaning it helps draw moisture into the hair and scalp. This can reduce dryness, brittleness and split ends, making hair appear shinier and more resilient over time.
Combats scalp conditions like dandruff
Thanks to its antifungal and antibacterial properties, castor oil may help fight dandruff and scalp irritation, ensuring that follicles remain healthy and unclogged for better hair growth.
How to use castor oil for healthy hair
- Scalp massage for growth: Warm a small amount of cold-pressed oil and massage it into the scalp for three to five minutes. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes to overnight, then wash it out with a mild shampoo.
- Hair mask for strength and shine: Mix 1 tablespoon of castor oil with two tablespoons of coconut or argan oil and apply it from roots to ends. Wrap your hair in a warm towel and leave for one to two hours before rinsing.
- Lash and brow boost: Use a clean mascara wand or cotton swab to apply a thin layer to your eyelashes and brows before bed.
Is castor oil good for our skin?
This helpful oil isn’t just a game-changer for hair – it has a host of skin benefits too. Whether you’re looking to fade dark spots, heal wounds or reinforce your skin barrier, castor oil’s unique properties make it a valuable addition to any skincare routine.
Fades hyperpigmentation and melasma
If you struggle with stubborn dark spots or melasma, castor oil may help. A 2006 study found that a phenol-castor oil chemical peel significantly reduced melasma in some patients within just one week. While more research is needed, applying the oil regularly may help even out skin tone and encourage brighter, more radiant skin.
Speeds up wound healing & fights infections
In 2003, a study on wound healing found that a castor oil-based ointment helped skin graft donor sites heal faster without complications. Another 2015 study discovered that a castor oil nanocomposite (very thin) film enhanced wound healing and showed antibacterial activity against harmful bacteria like E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus. This makes it a great option for minor cuts, scrapes and even acne-prone skin.
Strengthens and protects the skin barrier
If your skin is prone to dryness or irritation, castor oil can help reinforce the skin barrier. A 2010 study found that castor wax beads, when added to skincare formulations, helped protect against moisture loss and irritation. An excellent choice for sensitive skin types.
How to use castor oil on the skin
- For hyperpigmentation: Massage a few drops of oil into dark spots every night before bed.
- For wound healing: Apply a thin layer to minor cuts or scrapes to aid recovery.
- For dry skin: Mix a few drops with your moisturiser or apply directly to rough patches (especially useful for chapped hands).
- For cleansing: Use as part of an oil-cleansing routine to dissolve makeup and impurities while hydrating the skin.
In a nutshell
Castor oil may not be the most glamorous skincare ingredient, but its powerful hydrating, healing, and protective properties make it a must-have for natural beauty lovers.
Whether you’re looking to nourish hair, boost growth or improve skin tone, this ancient (and cheap!) beauty remedy is well worth incorporating into your routine. With its ability to restore balance, fight bacteria and deeply hydrate, castor oil is a simple yet effective way to achieve healthier hair and radiant skin – naturally.
