Without a doubt, the beauty community has been head over heels with all sorts of oils from coconut oil, olive oil to carrot oil. But if there’s one type of oil that has always been a staple in our daily routine, it has to be castor oil. Whether it’s the hair, eyebrows, skin or even lashes, people love to religiously apply it all over their body including their face. Well, can you blame them? Castor oil is widely known for its amazing benefits and it is definitely not a surprise that tons of beauty products are formulated with it. If you want to start incorporating castor oil into your routine, now is the perfect time to do so. Ahead, Beauty Insider has gathered the 411 on castor oil from its benefits to the best products.

Brief Information

What is the main benefit?

It functions as an hydrator that boost the moisture level. Plus, it is packed with nourishing and soothing properties, making it ideal for the whole body.

Who should use it?

Generally, castor oil is ideal for those who want to amp up their beauty game, from hair, brows to skin. However, do note that pregnant women should avoid consuming it at all costs since castor oil can actually induce labour.

How to use it? 

Depending on the area that you wanted to apply to, it should be used based on the recommended frequency and amount. Particularly for skin, you can blend it with other oils like almond and jojoba, however, avoid using it together with other irritant ingredients. Whereas for hair, you can combine it with hydrating oils including coconut.

What is Castor Oil?

Castor oil is a multi-purpose vegetable oil that is derived from the plant Ricinus communis. The castor beans, which is actually the seeds, gets pressed into versatile and pale-yellow vegetable oil. It is a triglyceride, in which 90% of fatty acid chains are ricinoleates. Castor oil is an active ingredient in a wide variety of household items as well. Also, it is used to treat medical conditions mostly related to digestive issues.

The Benefits of Castor Oil

Castor oil is truly an all-rounder ingredient that is ideal from head to toe. There’s a reason why the beauty community has nothing but praises for this fan favourite ingredient.

Shinier & Healthier hair

Many use castor oil as a natural source of hair conditioner. It is said to be an effective solution to dry and damaged hair. When you apply fats like oil to the hair on a regular basis, it helps lubricate the hair shaft. That helps in increasing flexibility and reducing the change of hair breakage. In addition to that, for those of you who have dandruff, this oil aids in conditioning the scalp to combat the dry and flaky skin on the head.

Fuller & Thicker Brows and Lashes

Source: Mayra Gianira

Applying a little castor oil on your eyebrows and eyelashes helps boost and nurture growth. It makes them grow longer, thicker and darker. This is due to the fatty acids that are found in the castor oil that triggers the growth and the dormant hair follicles.

Cuticle Conditioner

Castor oil also helps combat pesky fungal infections in your nail beds, ragged cuticles and brittle nails. With this treatment on a daily basis, you will be able to see your cuticles and nails much healthier. Not only that, but the oil also has anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties that will help strengthen and nourish your nails.

Controlling Acne

As Acne is associated with the imbalance of certain types of bacteria in the skin, castor oil has antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial overgrowth when applied to the skin. Ricinoleic acid can inhibit growth in the bacteria that causes acne. Not only that, but castor oil also helps reduce acne with its natural moisturising properties. It soothes the irritated and inflamed skin.

Natural Moisturiser

Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, which is a monounsaturated fatty acid. This is the kind of fats that act as humectants and are used to moisturise the skin. Therefore, the humectants retain moisture by preventing the loss of water through the outer layer of the skin. Not only that, but this oil is also often found in cosmetics, lotions, makeup and cleansers to promote hydration. So, why not use the oil in its natural form to benefit from all its properties?

Natural Laxative

If you are suffering from constipation, then castor oil is known to be one of the best natural laxatives. It is classified as a stimulant laxative that increases the movement of muscles by pushing the material through the intestines. Hence, clearing the bowels. When it is consumed orally, the oil will be broken down in the small intestine, releasing the ricinoleic acid, and absorbed by the intestine, which then stimulates a strong laxative effect.

Anti-inflammatory properties

Ricinoleic acid is the main fatty acid found in castor oil, and it has anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that it reduces inflammation and relieves pain. This is especially for those who have inflammatory diseases like psoriasis, eczema or rheumatoid arthritis. For those with psoriasis, the oil relieves the dry and irritated skin, resulting in the soothing of the area.

Natural Cleanser

The triglycerides that are found in castor oil are helpful in removing dirt from the skin. It acts as a gentle cleanser that effectively removes makeup, dirt, sweat and excess sebum on the skin. What’s more, is that it cleanses your face without irritating the skin. Hence, making it a perfect cleanser for those with sensitive skin. Not only that, but it also maintains the skin’s natural level of moisture.

What are the Side Effects of Castor Oil?

Although it is highly rated, castor oil is linked to several side effects when applied topically. Among the side effects that users experience are listed as below:

  • Skin rashes
  • Irritation
  • Swelling
  • Itching

A patch test is always recommended whenever you try out new products. On the contrary, castor oil is not advisable for pregnant women as it can induce labour when taken orally. Therefore, if you’re pregnant or have allergies to this ingredient, you might want to consult with your physician before that.

Top Rated Products That Are Formulated With Castor Oil

1.YUMI Lashes Growth Serum

YUMI Lashes Growth Serum features essential ingredients like castor oil, aloe vera extract, panthenol, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil and Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract. It helps to nourish each of the lash strands to ensure that they are longer, thicker and stronger. Simply apply this cult favourite product twice per day after the cleansing routine for optimal outcomes.

Why we love it:

  • Promotes longer and thicker lashes
  • Minimizes fallout
  • Premium ingredients

Price: $138.00

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2.Faith Fleur Hair Mist

Faith Fleur Hair Mist is an award-winning product that helps to nourish the hair while keeping them looking luscious and healthy. It features a pleasant scent that keeps your hair smelling fresh all day long. Enhanced with castor oil. this hair mist helps to deliver moisture that lasts for up to 24 hours, making it the go-to product whenever you’re outdoor. Simply spritz to your hair and you will see instant improvements.

Why we love it:

  • Does not weigh down the hair
  • Pleasant scent
  • Long lasting moisture

Price: $13.00 –$17.50

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3.SW1 Royal Jelly Essence

SW1 Royal Jelly Essence is loaded with skin-loving ingredients that help to improve the overall complexion. Enhanced with royal jelly extract, it intensely hydrates the skin and retains it for long-lasting hours. Additionally, the formulation also helps to soothe and fortify the skin. With its ultra-lightweight consistency, it absorbs easily into the skin.

Why we love it:

  • Delivers intense hydration
  • Soothing properties
  • Lightweight

Price: $87.80

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