Why everyone's talking about castor oil right now, and what it can actually do for your skin (2024)

Castor oil is essentially made up of fatty acids, “which are good for nourishing and hydrating dry, ageing skin,” adds Chelsee. The oil also contains triglycerides, which can help skin to maintain moisture. Plus it acts as a humectant, meaning it draws water from the air and traps it in your skin, thereby preventing moisture from evaporating. This is especially beneficial in winter when your skin is facing the see-saw of biting cold temperatures outside and central heating indoors.

While studies on castor oil are currently thin on the ground, one shows that the ricinoleic acid in castor oil may be anti-microbial. "For this reason, castor oil is an effective ingredient to help fight and prevent blemishes and impurities in the skin; even severe cases of acne," explains Susanne Kaufmann, founder of her eponymous natural skincare line.

Another study indicates that castor oil has anti-inflammatory properties. Those with skin complaints such as dermatitis, eczema, rosacea, psoriasis, and keratosis pilaris could also benefit from castor oil as its double-whammy approach soothes itching and fights bacteria.

“As well as being anti-inflammatory, castor oil is also a diuretic, so it really helps to decongest puffiness,” says Chelsee. “I find it's especially good for massaging into the skin when you're suffering from ‘booze face’ [aka the side effects of over-indulging in too much pinot grigio].” Finally, castor oil is high in antioxidants to help ward off damage from pollution and UV rays.

Why everyone's talking about castor oil right now, and what it can actually do for your skin (1)

Who should use castor oil?

On paper, castor oil sounds like a godsend for acne sufferers. But you wouldn't want to slather a thick layer onto oily spot-prone skin as it's thick and could be pore-clogging. “If you have an oilier skin, use castor oil sparingly,” warns Chelsee. “Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, castor oil will take down redness in acne-prone skin. But it's also a heavier oil so stick to using it once or twice a week to see how your skin reacts.”

As with all skincare, it comes down to formulation. "Castor oil is safe for anyone to use on the skin in small doses," says Susanne. "For example, 1.5% of the formulation for our Mineral Body Lotion is castor oil. As with any ingredient, it's always best used in moderation." That said, the fatty acids in castor oil will feed dry skin the nutrients and proteins it is craving to stay plump and bouncy.

There are just two caveats to note. It's always recommended to do a 24-hour patch test by applying a little castor oil on your inner forearm before using it on your face and, if irritation occurs, discontinue use. Castor oil is best avoided during pregnancy as it is thought to induce labour.

Here are the best castor oil-infused beauty buys to add to your skincare arsenal RN...

Why everyone's talking about castor oil right now, and what it can actually do for your skin (2024)

FAQs

Why everyone's talking about castor oil right now, and what it can actually do for your skin? ›

It has antimicrobial properties

Is castor oil really good for skin? ›

Castor oil benefits for skin

Because it's rich in fatty acids, castor oil has moisturizing effects. You can find it in many commercial beauty products. You can also use it in its natural form, which is free of perfumes and dyes. Because it can be irritating to skin, try diluting it with another neutral oil.

What does rubbing castor oil on your body do? ›

Castor oil has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal, and pain-relieving properties that may offer health benefits. It can help relieve constipation, moisturize skin, clean dentures, and induce labor. Limited research suggests that castor oil may help relieve joint pain, but more research is needed.

What happens when you put castor oil on your belly button? ›

Rubbing castor oil in your belly button may bring several benefits. These include easing pain, supporting digestion, improving skin, boosting hair growth, fortifying the immune system, aiding detox, and helping to relax for better sleep. Which oil to put in belly button for weight loss?

What happens if we apply castor oil on face daily? ›

Antibacterial: Castor oil helps to remove bacteria from the face, which could otherwise cause acne. Anti-inflammatory: Castor oil reduces inflammation, redness and swelling of the skin. It's often an important ingredient in after-sun products, as it soothes the skin after sun exposure.

What are the negative effects of castor oil on skin? ›

However, burning, stinging, redness, or irritation may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

What happens if I leave castor oil on my face overnight? ›

Yes, you can leave castor oil on your face overnight. Castor oil contains essential fatty acids that help restore the skin's natural moisture balance [1]. Leaving it on overnight allows the oil to deeply penetrate the skin and provide hydration and nourishment.

What are the benefits of applying castor oil on feet at night? ›

Heal Dry, Cracked Heels

Castor oil's miraculous ability to hydrate the skin makes it a perfect remedy for treating cracked heels. It is rich in vitamins, and essential nutrients help to hydrate dry, cracked skin. Simply rub castor oil on your feet, put on a pair of socks, and leave on overnight.

Does castor oil draw out toxins? ›

It breaks down and removes toxins, old cells, and other waste. Some natural practitioners recommend using a castor oil pack on the abdomen over the area of the liver. The idea is that the pack may help the liver move particles and cleanse the body.

Can castor oil remove dark spots? ›

Gently massage castor oil to your brown spots, leave it on for a few hours and rinse twice a day to make them slowly fade away. After a few applications, castor oil can also help even out your skin tone making your face appear brighter and younger.

How do you apply castor oil to private parts? ›

  1. Step 1: Dispense 1-2 tbsp (a full dropper) of oil onto the pelvic area before bed or at a time of the day you can rest.
  2. Step 2: Cover with a soft cloth and a heating pad. Step 3: Rest and allow the oil to soothe for 20min.
  3. Step 4: Rinse off with a warm wet cloth.
  4. Step 5: Repeat daily or as needed.

Does castor oil reduce belly fat? ›

Some claim can this can help reduce overall inflammation, improve gut health, and even stimulate fat loss from the abdomen. Does applying castor oil in the belly button have any of these benefits? The answer is a resounding no, according to the experts — there isn't scientific evidence to back up any of these claims.

Which oil to put in the belly button to reduce belly fat? ›

The practice is nothing new. It's actually based on Ayurvedic methods, a historic medical system from India that involves applying different kinds of oils — like caster, peppermint, and ginger oil — to the belly button and surrounding abdomen.

Does castor oil get rid of wrinkles? ›

While castor oil has many properties that may help reduce wrinkles, there's no direct evidence yet that proves this claim. However, studies have shown that castor oil is an effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory — both of which help fight free radicals and may slow the aging process.

Is castor oil good for under eyes? ›

While castor oil hasn't been scientifically proven to reduce dark circles under the eyes, anecdotal evidence suggests it might. It's considered safe for most people, though those with allergies should do a patch test before using. People who are pregnant should avoid using castor oil as it's known to induce labor.

Does castor oil grow facial hair? ›

Castor oil hasn't been found to do anything substantial for hair growth. But there are some effects that may indirectly help your beard hair grow. Its ability to fight off bacteria or fungal growth on the skin may help protect your follicles from damage, which can keep your hair healthy and promote hair growth.

Is castor oil better than coconut oil for skin? ›

Conclusion. Castor oil and coconut oil are both good for your skin, hair, and general health, so they are both in the beauty battle. Castor oil is great for making hair grow, cleaning pores, and getting away from acne. Coconut oil, on the other hand, is great for protecting, soothing, and healing the skin.

How long do you leave castor oil on your skin? ›

Step 3: Leave on your skin for about 20 minutes, the time it takes for castor oil to absorb into your skin. Step 4: Afterward, gently wash the areas where you've applied the oil. Apply products such as moisturizers, makeup, cover creams, and others as usual. Repeat these steps each evening as well.

Does castor oil tighten skin? ›

About Castor Oil:

Basically, the Castor Oil traps the moistures and act as a sealant because of this our skin appears tighter and firmer. This oil is full of several other key properties that provide a tighter appearance of the skin. This oil is well known for the biggest source of monounsaturated and ricinoleic acid.

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