Is castor oil the best choice for skincare, eyelash growth & brow growth?

Cold-pressed from the castor bean (Ricinus communis) - does castor oil deserve to go straight from the bean to your beauty routine?

Research shows some impressive castor oil skin benefits and is promising for eyelash and brow growth too. As a naturopath (& a natural sceptic), I was pleasantly surprised by the volume of published research. I'll admit, I initially thought it might be overhyped but it’s reassuring to know castor oil is a trend that looks like it’s here to stay.

Castor oil benefits

Turns out, castor oil is packed with plant-based goodness (phytonutrients):

• Ricinoleic Acid: The standout ingredient that makes castor oil unique. Studies show that it has anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for soothing irritated skin.
• Vitamin E: (tocotrienols and tocopherols) if you didn’t know, vitamin E is a treat for nourishing your skin.

Castor oil for skin

Let’s look at the research-backed benefits:

• Brightens pigmentation: A study found castor oil helps improve the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation with regular use (around 2 months).
• Soothes and calms: Ricinoleic acid and Vitamin E work together to reduce the appearance of redness and irritation, leaving skin feeling calmer.
• Antibacterial: Castor oil has shown antibacterial properties against common skin bacteria, such as Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus.
• Skin healing: Vitamin E supports the skin's natural healing and regeneration processes.
• Skin firmness and the appearance of wrinkles – especially in the eye area.

Bestselling castor oil: Dolphin Clinic Castor Oil

• Soothes irritation & supports the appearance of pigmentation
• Nourishing & suitable for sensitive skin
• HealthPost’s top seller – a popular choice for good reason

Castor oil for eyelashes & brows

Could castor oil be a natural serum for eyelash growth? While there’s no research yet (so the verdict’s still out), here’s some key points to consider: 

• Nourishing fatty acids: Castor oil’s fatty acids nourish and condition hair follicles, potentially supporting healthy hair growth.
• Supports natural prostaglandin production: Ricinoleic acid may support hair growth by helping to support prostaglandin receptors. This theory aligns with anecdotal reports of castor oil for eyelash and brow growth.
• A healthier alternative: Unlike synthetic eyelash serums, castor oil is a natural, plant-based option.
• Gentle on the eye area: Castor oil is even included in some natural mascara formulas, making it a safe choice for the delicate eye area.

DIY castor oil lash & brow conditioner

Want to try it yourself? Clean an empty mascara tube and fill it with pure castor oil, then apply lightly to your lashes and brows.

Organic castor oil: Green Trading Organic Castor Oil

• BioGro certified organic, cold-pressed
• Pure, food grade & suitable for the delicate eye area
• Packed in a clear glass bottle to preserve freshness

Castor oil lash & brow serum: INIKA Organics Castor Oil Lash & Brow Serum

• Conditioning serum – with a blend of castor oil & pure botanical oils
• 2 in 1 point brush (for lashes) & spoolie comb (for brows)
• Apply morning and night for luscious lashes and brows

Castor oil Mascara: INIKA Organic Mascara Long Lash

• 100% natural ingredients - with nourishing castor oil
• Lash conditioner and mascara in one
• Long-lasting, smudge proof

Castor oil for hair

While there are many claims about castor oil promoting hair growth, the research is still emerging. However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind:

• Supports scalp health: Castor oil’s soothing and healing properties can be helpful for an irritated or dry scalp
• Anecdotal reports - The point above about natural prostaglandin support does give credence to all the excitement around castor oil for natural hair growth support.
• Thick and hard to wash out: Castor oil is very thick, which can make it tricky to remove. When using as a scalp mask – keep it away from your ends, as it can cause ‘felting’ or hair tangles. It may be better to choose a hair oil or serum formulated especially for hair and scalp health – which won’t leave your hair feeling weighed down.

If you’re also curious about other trending oils for hair health, take a look at rosemary oil for hair.

Rosemary oil for hair growth: Weleda Revitalising Hair Tonic

• Supports healthy hair follicles for improved growth.
• Adds volume, making hair appear thicker.
• Invigorates the scalp without any oily residue.