Castor oil has been around for generations and is likely best known as a laxative. But recently, several TikTok videos have claimed it has skin and hair care benefits, too.
One TikToker says she slathers castor oil on her face every night as a moisturizer and claims it can “help with literally any skin care condition.” Another video says using castor oil on your face can minimize fine lines. TV host Keltie Knight said soaking her hair in castor oil and letting it sit for as long as possible is her “secret to hair growth.” Another video shows a woman smoothing castor oil through her long, dark locks.
So that leads one to wonder: Is castor oil actually good for your skin and hair?
Even though castor oil is a common ingredient in soaps, lotions and other skin care products, there’s little scientific evidence to support its benefits as a single ingredient for your hair and skin, experts say.
But there’s so much anecdotal evidence from people like these TikTokers who believe it could work — so we decided to ask some medical experts about the qualities that have gotten people talking. Let’s dig in and get to the bottom of this.
What is castor oil?
Castor oil is a vegetable oil from the ricinus communis plant that’s odorless and typically yellow in color.
Is castor oil good for your skin?
Ricinoleic acid, which is the main ingredient in castor oil, is a monounsaturated fatty acid that can help the skin hold moisture when it’s applied topically, according to the Cleveland Clinic. This is often why it’s found in cosmetics and moisturizers.
It could be helpful for anyone living in harsh, cold climates who needs extra moisture for their skin, Dr. Rehan Karim, a dermatologist at U.S. Dermatology Partners North Dallas, told HuffPost.
Karim said castor oil is likely most beneficial when combined with other moisturizing agents, like ceramides or niacinamides.
Because it’s a heavy oil, it can create a greasy feeling on the skin and clog pores, which may cause or worsen acne, Karim said. So if you have acne-prone skin, he suggested being careful about using castor oil.
Can it boost hair growth?
Using castor oil on your hair may make it “healthier-looking” though, as it coats the strands, reduces breakage, moisturizes and creates a shinier appearance, Karim said. It’ll be more beneficial on thicker, coarser hair, he said, as the heavy oil may weigh down thin hair.
Massaging castor oil into your scalp can soothe dryness and flakiness, Karim said.
Are there any risks to using castor oil?
Castor oil is generally safe for most people to use on their hair and skin, Karim said. But it could clog pores and cause acne. There’s also a risk of an allergic reaction — he suggested stopping using it if you notice redness, itching or a rash.
Should you try it?
“Castor oil can work as an occlusive moisturizer by creating a seal to lock in that hydration, but it is somewhat heavy and thick, which isn’t beneficial for everyone,” Karim said.
It may be better used as a body moisturizer rather than on the face if your goal is to help soothe irritated skin, he said.
Whenever you have dry skin or hair or hope to boost your hair growth, the best approach is to see a dermatologist. They’ll make recommendations based on your specific needs.
