There are many benefits of castor oil for skin. You may have heard about castor oil used in a castor oil pack for detox but it is also great for skin care. It is a highly moisturizing oil that penetrates deep into your skin. Due to this, It has become a popular oil to use in skin care.

What is Castor oil?

Castor oil is a thick, viscous liquid derived from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. It includes a mixture of triglycerides in which about 90 percent of fatty acids are ricinoleates. Oleic acid and linoleic acid are the other significant components. Ricinoleic acid, the main ingredient in castor oil, is a monounsaturated fatty acid that can help lock moisturize into your skin.

Benefits of Castor Oil for Skin Care

The fatty acids in castor oil benefits skin by moisturizing at a deep level. In addition to its moisturizing ability castor oil also has exfoliation, and anti-inflammatory effects. Another important component, the phytosterols, are effective in maintaining skin elasticity and reducing aging by promoting collagen.

Castor Oil for Dark Circles Under Eyes

In this study, participants used castor oil to treat hyperpigmentation (dark circles under eyes). The study found that a castor oil cream significantly reduced the melanin level, wrinkles, and skin laxity.

There are also benefits to using castor oil in your hair. Castor oil can also help promote movement and blood flow which is why it is used in many products that promote hair growth.

How to Apply Castor Oil on Your Face

If you want to use castor oil on your entire face as a moisturizer, it works well when mixed with other lighter oils like olive oil, almond oil, or avocado oil. You can add a few drops of castor oil to your regular moisturizer at night.

You can also use castor oil on its own to target certain areas of your face, such as under your eyes. It works well by itself, or mixed with essential oils, or carrier oils. An easy way to use castor oil under your eyes is in a roller bottle for easy application.

Under Eye Castor Oil Roller from Holistic Mama

Use Castor Oil to Wash Your Face

You may have heard about the oil cleansing method. It is an effective way to remove oil and dirt from your face without drying it out. Castor oil is one of the main ingredients in an oil cleanser. Read this post for complete details on how to use the oil cleansing method with castor oil.

Can I apply castor oil directly on my face?

Yes, you can apply castor oil directly on your face. Keep in mind, the oil is very thick and can take 30 minutes or more to absorb into your skin. Fo this reason, you can do this at night. Makeup does not apply well over castor oil.

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

Generally, this produces good results. It allows time for the oil to soak into the skin deeply. One drawback may be that it can stain pillows or sheets. One way to avoid that is to apply the oil at least 30 minutes before you go to bed.

What are the disadvantages of castor oil?

Just like any other oil, there is always the chance that castor oil can cause irritation in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive skin. If you do have very sensitive skin or allergies, always patch test any new oils. When used in excess, it may clog pores in some people. If you are prone to this, use castor oil sparingly until you are confident it won't clog pores. Also, diluting it with olive, avocado or almond oil can also help.

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