Castor oil is used in beauty products, but there isn’t enough research on its safety for direct use on the skin, including the face.
Castor oil comes from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, which grows mainly in Africa, South America, and India. India is the top producer, while the United States and China are major importers.
The oil is made by cold-pressing the seeds and then applying heat. It’s not meant for eating and is a small part of the world’s vegetable oil production.
Historically, castor oil was used as a laxative and to start labor, but today it is commonly included in cosmetics.
Research from 2022 shows that castor oil’s main component is ricinoleic acid, a strong fatty acid that can moisturize and protect your skin. More information about research see at National Library of Medicine
Studies have found that castor oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce pimples, soften skin, and minimize the look of large pores, making it one of the best oils for skin.
Other possible benefits of using castor oil on your skin include:
Preventing Wrinkles: Castor oil has antioxidants that fight free radicals, which speed up aging and cause wrinkles. For similar anti-aging benefits, you might also use rosehip oil for face.
Fighting Acne: Castor oil has antibacterial properties that help prevent acne by stopping bacteria from clogging pores.
Reducing Puffiness: Its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce swelling and puffiness, including inflamed pimples and under-eye bags.
Moisturizing: Castor oil helps keep your skin hydrated, which prevents wrinkles and keeps your skin looking youthful and shiny. For similar hydration benefits, you might also consider using olive oil for skin care.
Soothing Sunburn: Its anti-inflammatory properties may relieve sunburn pain, and its moisturizing effect can help reduce peeling. For similar benefits, you might also use argan oil for face.
Fighting Dry Lips: Castor oil is often used in lip products. For dry lips, you can use castor oil directly, but mixing it with a more pleasant-tasting oil, like coconut oil, can be nicer.
Promoting Overall Skin Health: Rich in healthy fatty acids, castor oil supports good skin health.
Castor oil is thick, so it’s best to mix it with a carrier oil before applying it to your face. Common carrier oils include:
- Coconut oil
- Almond oil
- Olive oil
You can also mix it with shea butter for extra moisture.
Before bed, apply this mixture to your clean skin. You can leave it on overnight or wipe it off with a warm cloth after 1 to 5 minutes.
Side effects
Castor oil can cause side effects. Although it has many potential benefits, there isn’t strong scientific evidence for many of these claims, and most evidence is based on personal reports rather than solid research.
Possible side effects of castor oil include:
- Skin rashes
- Swelling
- Itching
If you have an allergic reaction to castor oil, seek medical help right away. Skin irritation and rashes are the most commonly reported side effects.
Castor oil is approved for use in cosmetics, but there’s limited research on its direct application to the skin, especially the face.
While many oils are known to benefit the skin, it’s a good idea to research other options like coconut oil for skin care and jojoba oil for face before choosing one for your face.
