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How To Use Castor Oil For Hair

Medically reviewed by Martha Juco, MD · Aesthetics


Written by Hello Doctor Medical Panel · Updated Dec 12, 2022

    How To Use Castor Oil For Hair

    Castor oil is especially good for people with dry and damaged hair because it has strong moisturizing properties. The fats from this oil also help lubricate the hair shaft, increase flexibility, and reduce the likelihood of breakage. Also, castor oil can improve dandruff problems. Thanks to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, castor oil helps relieve symptoms of dandruff. So, how to use castor oil for hair?

    The benefits of castor oil for hair

    Castor oil has been claimed to have numerous benefits including strengthening strands, promoting hair growth, and nourishing dry scalp. And while the oil itself likely can’t make the hair grow, it’s able to nurture a healthier scalp that makes for way better hair growth.

    Nourishing and strengthening strands

    Unlike most other oils, castor oil is composed of a powerful mix of proteins, vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants. Thus, it comes as no surprise that the oil is claimed to be a wonderful way to nurture the scalp and fragile hair follicles while simultaneously encouraging healthier, faster hair growth. For this reason, castor oil has increasingly become a key ingredient in hair products.

    Antimicrobial properties

    When it comes to scalp care, castor oil has antimicrobial properties that may be useful in fighting off bacterial or fungal overgrowth on the scalp. Fungal overgrowth can lead to hair-damaging scalp inflammation and castor oil can help with that.

    Aids in scalp flaking

    Castor oil can help with effective and gentle cleansing of the skin. Because it’s polarized, castor oil actually attracts dirt and effectively cleanses the skin.

    Protects against breakage

    Its high content of ricinoleic acid may help improve blood circulation in the scalp. This might lead to better nutrition for the hair follicles, stronger strands, and less breakage. In addition,  castor oil is a humectant. So, it helps lock in moisture and shine. And as we know, moisturized (aka not dry, damaged, and split-prone) hair may be more likely to grow at a healthier rate.

    Increases the absorption of other products

    Castor oil is thought to enhance and increase the absorption of other products. If incorporated into your normal hair ritual, your other products might actually be able to penetrate the skin more effectively. After all, a residue-filled scalp does not make for a healthy mane.

    How to use castor oil for hair

    Apply a sufficient amount of castor oil to the scalp. A massage will help moisturize the dry scalp. Let it sit for about 10 to 15 minutes and then wash your hair.

    Can you use castor oil for your eyelashes?

    To date, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that castor oil can help the eyelashes grow. However, it may help make the eyelashes appear thicker or glossier. One study from 2003 showed that castor oil increased the “luster” of hair, which might suggest that the same is true for eyelashes.

    Risks

    Castor oil is present in many cosmetic products, including lipsticks and skin care products. Scientists have found castor oil to have low toxicity, and other research has found 100% concentration Trusted Source of hydrogenated castor oil safe for use in cosmetics.

    However, castor may trigger an allergic reaction, such as skin irritation, in some people.

    People should test castor oil on an area of skin away from their eyes and face before using it on their eyelashes. If people experience any irritation from the castor oil, they should wash it off and stop using it.

    People should also try to avoid getting castor oil in their eyes. 

    Can you use castor oil on your eyebrows?

    Castor oil is a safe, affordable, natural home remedy that has been used for years to treat a variety of conditions, including hair loss. While there haven’t been scientific studies that prove that castor oil can regrow hair, it’s a low-risk remedy that may help you get thicker eyebrows.

    However, consult your dermatologist. Castor oil can also clog your follicles and cause skin irritation. Do a patch test on your skin first.

    Key Takeaways

    How to use castor oil for hair? Take a little bit of castor oil and apply it to your scalp. There are numerous benefits to using castor oil for health, but more studies are needed to confirm. If you’d like to achieve thicker, fuller, and healthier hair, eyelashes, and eyebrows, consult your dermatologist.

    Learn more about Scalp Care here

    Disclaimer

    Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

    Medically reviewed by

    Martha Juco, MD

    Aesthetics


    Written by Hello Doctor Medical Panel · Updated Dec 12, 2022

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