The Use of Castor Oil in Cosmetics

The Use of Castor Oil in Cosmetics Castor oil is probably best known for its traditional use as a laxative, and so many people don’t have the best associations with it. But it has so many more uses! For example, castor oil has been used in cosmetic products due to its moisturising and conditioning properties. Let us tell you more about the skin and hair benefits of castor oil and its use in cosmetics.

Castor oil is a vegetable oil cold-pressed from the seeds of the castor bean plant (Ricinus communis), which is widespread throughout tropical regions and widely grown in other climates as an ornamental plant. As we’ve already mentioned above, it has been used in traditional medicine as a laxative for centuries and even millennia, and is still sold as an over-the-counter constipation treatment, as well as added to certain prescription drugs.

This oil also has industrial uses. For example, it has been used as an effective motor lubricant in internal combustion engines, particularly in rotary engines used in early aircraft, including WWI Allied planes. Castor oil is also the preferred lubricant in some types of engines used in model planes. Being cheaper than many other vegetable oils, it can also be used in the production of biodiesel.

Finally, castor oil is used for skin and hair care because of its unique chemical composition and cosmetic benefits. It is mostly composed of ricinoleic acid (a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid) that has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Other fatty acids that can be found in castor oil are oleic, linoleic, alpha-linolenic, stearic, palmitic, and others. Due to its fatty acid composition, castor oil is very resistant to rancidification.

When used as a skincare ingredient, castor oil makes the skin look smoother by reducing the appearance of existing fine lines and wrinkles, as well as slowing down the formation of new ones. It also nourishes and moisturises the skin, makes it softer, stimulates epidermal cell metabolism, produces an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect, prevents rough and flaky skin, and boosts the production of collagen and elastin that are responsible for the skin’s elasticity and firmness.

As a hair care ingredient, castor oil strengthens hair structure, reduces hair loss and stimulates growth, and prevents breakage and split ends. Additionally, this oil moisturises the scalp, preventing itching and flaking, as well as improves hair elasticity, flexibility and healthy shine.

Castor oil can be applied to hair and skin as is, or mixed with other carrier oils. You can also infuse it with essential oils, use castor oils to make DIY skin and hair masks, or add it to store-bought shampoos, hair conditioners, moisturisers and other products. Finally, you can buy skin and hair care products that already contain castor oil or its derivatives as one of their active ingredients.

If you have dry skin, you can use castor oil as a moisturising face mask. Wash your face and gently pat it dry with a soft towel. Apply a thin layer of castor oil all over your face and let it sit for 20 to 60 minutes (depending on how dry your skin is). Wash your face again with your favourite cleanser and apply toner. You can apply castor oil once or twice a week to keep your skin hydrated, smooth and flawless.

You can also use castor oil to make your eyebrows and eyelashes thicker. Warm it up a bit, carefully apply oil to your eyebrows and eyelashes using a clean mascara brush, leave it for 30-60 minutes, and use a cotton pad and gentle makeup remover to remove the residue. You will notice the positive effects of castor oil after about a month of daily use: your eyelash and eyebrow hairs will become thicker and stronger.

So, you can see that castor oil is a popular cosmetic ingredient, and many beauty brands produce various products containing it. In our online shop Organic Store, you can buy natural and organic products with castor oils produced by Cocos, Dr. Sante, Mayur, Organic Kitchen, and other brands. We offer affordable prices, convenient and secure payment methods, and international delivery to most parts of the world to make your online shopping experience as effortless as possible.