You might have used castor oil for scalp massages. You might have also used it as a laxative. But have you ever used castor oil for face and skin? Castor oil is extensively used in commercial skin care products. While research is extremely limited regarding castor oil’s topical benefits, anecdotal evidence shows that it might contribute to your skin health. This article digs deeper into the skin care benefits of castor oil and how you can use it for maintaining skin health. Keep reading.
In This Article
What Is Castor Oil?
Castor oil is a type of vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. The seeds are also called castor beans and contain high levels of ricin, a type of toxic enzyme. However, ricin is removed from the oil when it is processed. Processed castor oil is safe for use. This oil has been used for ages in traditional therapies. Ancient Egyptians used castor oil to prevent eye irritation (1).
StyleCraze Trivia Castor oil is nowadays used widely in makeup products, lotions, and cleansers as a humectanti XA substance capable of retaining or conserving moisture, added in skin moisturizers to aid the loss of moisture in the skin. , moisturizer, and hydrating agent.
There are several benefits of the topical application of castor oil. Let’s take a look.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Castor Oil On The Face?
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1. May Moisturize The Skin
Due to its high fatty acid content and ability to be applied to facial skin, castor oil enhances smoothness and softness. Through moisturizing, hydrating, and cleaning, it encourages an increase in healthy pores and skin tissue (2).
Related: 10 Effective Ways To Moisturize Your Skin Naturally
2. May Have Antibacterial Benefits
The protein extracts from castor seeds were found to have antibacterial and anti-proliferativei XRepresses harmful spread and growth of any malignant or tumor-causing cell surrounding the affected tissue. properties. They inhibited the growth of S. aureus, the acne-causing bacteria The protein extracts from castor seeds were found to have antibacterial and anti-proliferative properties. They inhibited the growth of S. aureus, (3).
3. May Help Reduce Fungal Infection
A gel containing castor oil was found to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans (4). This fungus can cause oral infections, nail fungus, athletes foot, diaper rash, and jock itch.
4. Can Soothe Inflamed Skin
The anti-inflammatory and analgesici XRefers to the drugs used in pain management strategies. Typical examples are ibuprofen and naproxen. properties of ricinoleic acid helped inhibit inflammation in mice. Similar effects were also observed in guinea pigs (5). Gels containing ricinoleic acid can reduce inflammation and help in pain management (6). However, further human studies are needed to understand the scope of castor oil’s benefits.
5. May Help Soothe Sunburn
Anecdotal evidence suggests that the moisturizing properties of castor oil can help soothe irritation and pain associated with sunburn. The anti-inflammatory property of castor oil is also believed to be responsible for this property.
Did You Know? Castor oil has a comedogenic ratingi XA measuring scale that rates the tendency of an ingredient to clog skin pores, which can result in acne. of 1, which makes it suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Castor oil is thick in its natural state, which is why most of us often experience difficulty in applying it smoothly to our skin. Here is how you can apply castor oil to your skin without any hassles.
How To Apply Castor Oil
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You may use it as an ingredient in DIY face masks. You can also apply the liquid directly to your skin:
- Soak a piece of cotton ball in castor oil.
- Gently dab it all over your face and neck.
- Massage the oil for 3-5 minutes in circular motions.
- Wash your face with a mild face wash.
You may mix it with other vegetable oils and plant butters before application. Here are a few more ways to use castor oil for your face.
Castor Oil For The Face: DIY Recipes
1. Castor Oil Makeup Remover
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You Will Need
- 2 tablespoons of castor oil
- 3 tablespoons of coconut oil
- 8 drops of lavender essential oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of vitamin E oil (optional)
Procedure
- Mix the ingredients and let the mixture rest for 10 minutes.
- Transfer it to an airtight bottle or container and store it in a cool, dry place.
- Use as required.
2. Castor Oil Face Mask
You Will Need
- 2 teaspoons of castor oil
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons of honey
Procedure
- Whisk the egg yolk until it turns frothy.
- Add remaining ingredients to it and mix well.
- Apply the mixture to the face and leave it on to dry.
- Wash off with water.
3. Castor Oil Lip Balm
You Will Need
- 1 teaspoon of castor oil
- 1 teaspoon of canola oil
- 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil
- 1 drop of lemon essential oil (for fragrance)
- 1 drop of frankincense essential oil (for fragrance)
- A 10-millimeter roller bottle
Procedure
- Mix all ingredients and pour the mixture into the roller bottle.
- Screw the lid on.
- Shake well and apply as and when required.
In the following section, we have discussed a nighttime skincare routine with castor oil that you can follow.
How To Include Castor Oil In Your Skin Care Routine
1. Remove Your Makeup
A castor oil makeup remover can gently lift the dirt, dust, and makeup from your face. Oil cleansing prevents clogged pores and reduces the chances of breakouts. Gently massage the makeup remover all over your face and neck, and then wipe with a damp cotton pad. Follow up with a mild foaming face wash.
Related: 5 Best DIY Makeup Removers
2. Apply A Face Mask
Once you have finished cleaning your face, apply the castor oil face mask. This helps tone the skin and exfoliate dead skin cells. Spread the face mask evenly on your skin and let it dry. Wash off with lukewarm water. Follow up with a toner and moisturizer.
Subscribe Related: Care For Your Lips
3. Moisturize Your Lips
Your delicate lips need moisturization to stay plump and healthy. Use the castor oil lip balm on your lips before sleeping to keep them soft and supple.
Before using castor oil, you must be aware of the side effects.
Related: How Does Castor Oil Reduce Skin Pigmentation?
Side Effects Of Using Castor Oil For The Face
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Castor oil may cause skin irritation. In a study, castor oil (undiluted) caused severe irritation on rabbit skin. However, it caused mild irritation on guinea pig and rat skin (7).
Human trials found that castor oil was not a skin irritant. However, those who have occupational dermatoses (a type of skin inflammation) may experience skin irritation (7).
Castor oil may also cause eye irritation and mild discomfort if it enters the eye (7). Hence, you need to be cautious while using castor oil on your skin.
Precautions To Follow Before Using Castor Oil
- Do A Patch Test: People can be allergic to castor oil. Hence, a patch test is mandatory before using the oil.
- Consult A Doctor: If you have skin issues, allergies, or inflammation, consult a doctor before using castor oil as it may aggravate your condition.
- Check The Label: The preservatives in castor oil can also cause irritation. Read the label and check the list of ingredients. Go for oils from reputed brands or use cold-pressed organic oil without additives. Also, check the expiration date before buying.
Note: If you are pregnant or lactating, consult your doctor before using castor oil.
Related: How To Use Castor Oil For Hair Growth, Benefits, & Side Effects
Infographic: Castor Oil for Hair: How to Use It
Castor oil has long been used as a treatment for thinning hair and hair loss and for aiding hair growth. Moisturizing dry hair, controlling frizz, and reducing knots are just a few of its additional benefits. It can also help your hair become thicker and stronger. Check out the infographic below to learn how to apply castor oil to your hair.
Castor oil is often used in skin care products and cosmetics, and many people apply this oil to their faces. Research regarding the safety of castor oil for the face or skin is limited, and most of the claims are based on anecdotal evidence. Therefore, it is best to practice caution while using castor oil for your face and skin. Always do a patch test as castor oil may irritate the skin, and avoid it altogether if you have an existing skin condition. Consult a doctor if you notice irritation and rashes after using castor oil.
