Castor Oil Uses, Benefits for Skin & Hair (Very Helpful Tables)
Castor oil is a thick, nutrient-rich oil extracted from the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis, see pics below, castor plant from my land).
(Known for its deeply moisturising, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, this oil has been used for centuries in skincare, haircare, and natural medicine).
What makes castor oil stand out?
✨ Rich in Ricinoleic Acid – A unique fatty acid that deeply hydrates and has anti-inflammatory effects. Unique to this oil!
✨ Natural Humectant – Helps lock in moisture, making it great for dry skin and hair.
✨ Supports Hair Growth – Nourishes the scalp, strengthens hair follicles, and may help with thicker hair and brows.
✨ Versatile & Multi-Purpose – Used for skin, hair, digestion, joint pain, and even lymphatic support!
Castor oil is a powerful natural remedy worth having in your routine whether you’re looking to hydrate your skin, boost hair growth, or explore its health benefits,
As a certified health coach and certified skincare formulator, I love breaking down natural remedies into practical, science-backed advice. And castor oil is one of those ingredients that truly deserves a dedicated guide!
That’s where this guide comes in—I’ve put together easy-to-read tables and charts to help you find exactly what you need in seconds.
DISCLAIMER: I recommend products below. If you buy through my links I might earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Castor Oil for Beauty: All the Charts and Tables You Need!
Castor oil is unique because it contains a high percentage of ricinoleic acid, a rare fatty acid that gives the oil its deeply hydrating, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Below is the fatty acid breakdown of castor oil:
| Fatty Acid | Percentage | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Ricinoleic Acid (Omega-9) | 85-95% | Deeply moisturising, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial |
| Oleic Acid (Omega-9) | 2-6% | Softens skin, enhances absorption of other ingredients |
| Linoleic Acid (Omega-6) | 1-5% | Lightweight hydration, supports skin barrier function |
| Stearic Acid | 0.5-2% | Adds richness, provides a protective barrier for skin and hair |
| Palmitic Acid | 0.5-1% | Emollient, helps soften and smooth skin |
The high ricinoleic acid content makes castor oil unique—it’s one of the only natural oils with such a high concentration of this fatty acid! This is why it’s so effective for deep hydration, hair care, and soothing inflammation.
1. Castor Oil for Skin Concerns
Castor oil is packed with fatty acids, antioxidants, and antibacterial properties, making it a versatile addition to your skincare routine.
Whether you have dry skin, acne, or fine lines, this oil can help nourish, heal, and protect.
Below is a handy table to help you find the best way to use castor oil for your skin needs.
| Skin Concern | How Castor Oil Helps | How to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Skin | Deeply moisturises, locks in hydration | Apply a few drops onto damp skin before bed |
| Acne | Antibacterial properties help reduce breakouts | Dab a small amount on breakouts with a cotton bud |
| Fine Lines & Wrinkles | Rich in antioxidants, supports collagen production | Massage a drop into fine lines nightly |
| Dark Circles | Hydrates and soothes, may reduce puffiness | Apply a thin layer under eyes before bed |
| Hyperpigmentation | Gently brightens skin and evens tone | Mix with a few drops of rosehip oil and apply |
| Sensitive Skin | Soothes irritation, anti-inflammatory | Use as a spot treatment or mix with aloe vera |
| Sunburn | Calms redness and speeds up healing | Gently massage onto affected areas |
| Scars & Stretch Marks | Improves skin elasticity and promotes healing | Massage onto scars daily for best results |
Castor oil has a thick, rich, and slightly sticky texture, making it unlike most other plant oils. When applied to the skin, it feels heavy and deeply moisturising, creating a protective barrier that locks in hydration. It absorbs slowly, leaving a slight sheen, but when mixed with a lighter oil, it spreads more easily (below you’ll find a table on mixing it with other oils).
HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED CASTOR OIL (COLD PRESSED AND UNREFINED, ORGANIC OF COURSE!)
2. Castor Oil for Hair Concerns
Castor oil is a go-to natural remedy for stronger, healthier hair. It helps with hair growth, dryness, dandruff, and scalp health—all thanks to its rich fatty acids and antibacterial properties.
The table below breaks down how castor oil benefits different hair concerns and how to use it effectively.
| Hair Concern | Benefits | How to Apply | How Often |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Growth | Boosts circulation, nourishes follicles | Massage into scalp and leave overnight | 2-3 times a week |
| Dry & Brittle Hair | Deeply conditions and prevents moisture loss | Mix with coconut oil and apply as a mask | 1-2 times a week |
| Dandruff | Antifungal, helps clear dandruff | Dilute with lighter oils and massage into scalp | 1-2 times a week |
| Itchy Scalp | Soothes scalp and reduces irritation | Apply a few drops directly to the scalp | As needed |
| Split Ends | Seals moisture into hair strands | Rub into ends of hair before styling | Before styling |
| Thinning Hair | Strengthens hair roots and prevents shedding | Use a small amount as a scalp massage oil | 2-3 times a week |
| Frizz & Flyaways | Tames frizz and adds shine | Apply a tiny amount to smooth hair | As needed |
| Scalp Circulation | Promotes blood flow to the scalp | Massage into scalp in circular motions | 3-4 times a week |
On hair, castor oil clings to strands and feels dense and coating, especially if used alone. It’s best applied in small amounts or blended with a lighter oil to avoid a heavy, weighed-down feel. When massaged into the scalp, it has a warming effect, which can help stimulate circulation and promote hair growth.
3. Carrier Oils to Mix with Castor Oil
Castor oil is thick and sticky, which makes it perfect for blending with lighter carrier oils. Mixing it with other oils helps improve absorption, making it easier to apply while adding extra benefits for your skin and hair.
The table below shows the best carrier oils to mix with castor oil, their key benefits, and which skin or hair type they work best for.
| Carrier Oil | Benefits | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Jojoba Oil | Balances oil production, great for acne-prone skin | Oily & acne-prone skin |
| Coconut Oil | Deep conditioning, ideal for hair masks | Dry & damaged hair |
| Argan Oil | Lightweight, high in antioxidants | Fine lines & wrinkles |
| Rosehip Oil | Brightens skin and supports collagen production | Dull & uneven skin tone |
| Sweet Almond Oil | Softens skin and absorbs quickly | Sensitive & irritated skin |
| Olive Oil | Highly moisturising, great for dry skin | Very dry skin & scalp |
| Grapeseed Oil | Fast-absorbing, non-greasy | Combination skin |
| Hemp Seed Oil | Soothing, rich in essential fatty acids | Inflamed or sensitive skin |
4. DIY Castor Oil Skincare Recipes
Castor oil is a fantastic ingredient for homemade skincare! It has deeply hydrating, antibacterial, and soothing properties, making it perfect for serums, cleansers, and body oils.
The table below features simple DIY recipes using castor oil, along with the key ingredients and instructions so you can easily make them at home.
| Product | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Moisturising Face Serum | Castor oil, jojoba oil, rosehip oil, lavender essential oil | Mix all oils, store in a dropper bottle. Apply 2-3 drops to face nightly. |
| Hydrating Lip Balm | Castor oil, candelilla wax, shea butter, peppermint essential oil | Melt wax and butter, stir in oils. Pour into a tin and let cool. |
| Castor Oil Cleanser | Castor oil, grapeseed oil, tea tree essential oil | Blend oils, massage onto face, wipe off with a warm cloth. |
| Overnight Hair Mask | Castor oil, coconut oil, argan oil | Mix oils, massage into scalp and hair, leave overnight, wash out in the morning. |
| Nourishing Body Oil | Castor oil, sweet almond oil, vitamin E | Blend oils, apply to damp skin after a shower. |
HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED CASTOR OIL (COLD PRESSED AND UNREFINED, ORGANIC OF COURSE!)
5. Best Essential Oils to Mix with Castor Oil for Skin & Hair
Essential oils can enhance castor oil’s benefits, adding antibacterial, soothing, or hair-strengthening properties. Whether you want to boost hair growth, soothe irritated skin, or fight acne, choosing the right essential oil can make a big difference!
The table below shows the best essential oils to mix with castor oil, their key benefits, and how to use them.
| Essential Oil | Benefit | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Lavender | Calms skin, reduces redness | Face serums, body oils |
| Tea Tree | Fights acne, antibacterial | Spot treatment, acne-prone skin |
| Rosemary | Stimulates hair growth, boosts scalp circulation | Hair growth treatments |
| Peppermint | Soothes scalp, helps with dandruff | Scalp treatments, hair masks |
| Frankincense | Supports skin healing, anti-aging | Anti-aging skincare |
| Lemon | Brightens skin, helps with oily skin | Brightening serums |
| Chamomile | Soothes sensitive skin, reduces irritation | Sensitive skin care |
| Cedarwood | Strengthens hair, helps with hair loss | Hair loss treatments, scalp massages |
6. How Castor Oil Compares to Other Oils
Castor oil is often compared to other natural oils like coconut, argan, and jojoba oil. While all of these oils are great for skin and hair, they each have different textures, absorption rates, and best uses.
The table below breaks down how castor oil compares to other popular oils so you can choose the best one for your needs.
| Oil | Best for | Texture | Absorption | Comedogenic Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Castor Oil | Dry skin, hair growth, scalp health | Thick, sticky | Slow, deeply penetrates | 1 (low risk of clogging pores) |
| Coconut Oil | Moisturising dry skin, deep conditioning hair | Solid at room temp, melts on contact | Medium, absorbs well | 4 (high risk for acne-prone skin) |
| Argan Oil | Fine lines, lightweight hydration | Lightweight, silky | Fast, non-greasy | 0 (non-comedogenic) |
| Jojoba Oil | Balancing oily skin, mimics natural sebum | Light, non-greasy | Quick, balances oil levels | 2 (low to medium risk) |
7. Comedogenic Rating of Castor Oil vs. Other Popular Oils
If you have acne-prone or sensitive skin, knowing the comedogenic rating of oils is important! This rating tells you how likely an oil is to clog pores, which can lead to breakouts.
The table below compares castor oil with other popular oils so you can make the best choice for your skin.
| Oil | Comedogenic Rating (0-5) | Best for Skin Type |
|---|---|---|
| Castor Oil | 1 (low risk) | Most skin types, dry & acne-prone skin |
| Coconut Oil | 4 (high risk) | Very dry skin, NOT acne-prone |
| Argan Oil | 0 (non-comedogenic) | All skin types, great for mature skin |
| Jojoba Oil | 2 (low to medium risk) | Oily & acne-prone skin, combination skin |
| Olive Oil | 2 (low to medium risk) | Dry skin, not ideal for acne-prone skin |
| Grapeseed Oil | 1 (low risk) | Oily & acne-prone skin |
| Sweet Almond Oil | 2 (low to medium risk) | Sensitive & dry skin |
| Rosehip Oil | 1 (low risk) | Dull, uneven skin tone |
8. Castor Oil for Eyelashes & Eyebrows
If you’re looking for thicker, healthier eyelashes and eyebrows, castor oil is a popular natural remedy. Its nourishing fatty acids help condition the hairs, making them stronger and more resilient over time.
The table below breaks down how to apply castor oil to your lashes and brows, what results to expect, and how long it takes to see changes.
9. Castor Oil for Eyelashes & Eyebrows
| Application Method | Results Expected | How Long to See Results |
|---|---|---|
| Apply a tiny amount to lashes using a clean mascara wand | Stronger, shinier, and more conditioned lashes | 4-6 weeks |
| Apply castor oil to eyebrows with a cotton bud or clean brush | Fuller, thicker-looking brows | 6-8 weeks |
| Massage a drop into brows nightly | Strengthened hair follicles, reduced shedding | 8+ weeks |
| Mix castor oil with vitamin E and apply to lashes | Added nourishment, enhanced lash growth | 4-6 weeks |
10. Who Should NOT Use Castor Oil
While castor oil has many benefits, it’s not suitable for everyone. Some people may experience irritation, allergies, or unwanted effects, especially when using it internally.
The table below highlights who should avoid castor oil, why, and what alternatives they can use.
| Condition | Reason to Avoid | Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Pregnant People | May stimulate uterine contractions | Consult a doctor before use |
| People with Sensitive Skin | May cause irritation or allergic reactions | Patch test first; dilute with carrier oils |
| Those with Gastrointestinal Issues | Can cause cramping, diarrhoea, or discomfort | Try milder digestive aids (e.g., flaxseed oil) |
| People with Eye Sensitivities | May cause redness or irritation in the eyes | Use a gentler oil like sweet almond oil |
| Anyone Allergic to Castor Oil | Can cause rashes, itching, or swelling | Avoid completely and use alternatives |
HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED CASTOR OIL (COLD PRESSED AND UNREFINED, ORGANIC OF COURSE!)
11. How to Store Castor Oil
Proper storage of castor oil ensures it stays fresh, potent, and effective for longer. If stored incorrectly, it can turn rancid and lose its beneficial properties.
The table below shows the best ways to store castor oil, why it matters, and how long it lasts.
| Storage Tip | Why It’s Important | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Keep in a cool, dark place | Prevents oxidation and extends shelf life | 1-2 years |
| Store in a glass bottle | Protects oil from contamination | Helps maintain purity |
| Keep away from direct sunlight | UV light can degrade the oil | Keeps it effective longer |
| Seal tightly after each use | Prevents exposure to air and moisture | Reduces risk of rancidity |
| Refrigeration (optional) | Extends freshness, especially in warm climates | Can last up to 2+ years |
Conclusion
Castor oil is an incredibly versatile natural remedy that can support skin, hair, and overall well-being.
Whether you’re using it to moisturise dry skin or encourage hair growth, this amazing oil has a long history of effectiveness.
From the tables above, you now have a clear, structured guide on how to use castor oil safely and effectively. Just remember:
✅ Always patch test first—especially if you have sensitive skin.
✅ Use in moderation—a little goes a long way!
✅ Store it properly—to keep it fresh and potent.
Now it’s your turn! How do you use castor oil in your beauty or wellness routine? Let me know in the comments!
HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED CASTOR OIL (COLD PRESSED AND UNREFINED, ORGANIC OF COURSE!)
References
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