Castor oil, which comes from the Ricinus communis plant, is commonly used as a laxative. More recently, there has been a growing interest in its use for skincare. The oil contains a compound called ricinoleic acid, which moisturizes and soothes dry skin.
Natural oils—such as castor oil, olive oil, and jojoba oil—have been used for centuries to improve the texture and appearance of skin. In recent years, there has been an increased interest in these oils, as they are a natural, cost-effective skincare option.
These oils are all emollients, which are substances that soften and soothe skin. Here is a closer look at how these oils compare to castor oil:
| Oil | What It Does | When To Use It | What To Know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Castor Oil | Emollient that moisturizes, hydrates, and cleanses | Use it to smooth and moisturize skin and to address acne | Has a distinct odor and can stain clothes |
| Olive Oil | Emollient that helps address dry skin | Use it to moisturize the body rather than the face | May not be ideal for acne-prone skin due to its heaviness |
| Almond Oil | Emollient with a light texture that soothes dry skin and addresses acne | Use it for dry skin or scarring | Can cause allergic reactions |
| Sesame Oil | Emollient containing vitamins A and E that also has an antioxidant effect | Use it to smooth and moisturize skin and to address acne | Can cause allergic reactions |
| Jojoba Oil | Emollient that soothes and rehydrates dry skin | Use it for dry skin | Not excessively oily or greasy |
Castor oil is often touted for its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin softening effects. However, the available research is limited. Some potential skin benefits of castor oil include:
- Moisturizes skin: Because castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, it functions as a natural moisturizer. It may also protect your skin barrier.
- Promotes wound healing: Ricinoleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties, may support wound healing. However, human studies are needed to confirm this theory.
- Addresses under-eye circles: Researchers in one study found that castor oil cream can be used to treat infraorbital hyperpigmentation, or the dark circles under your eyes. They also noted that it reduced the melanin level, wrinkles, and skin elasticity and firmness under the eyes.
- Fights acne-causing bacteria: Castor oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation related to acne and fight the bacteria that cause breakouts.
- Soothes red, irritated skin: Research suggests that the ricinoleic acid in castor oil reduces inflammation and pain when applied topically.
- Boosts skin repair: Limited research suggests that castor oil may help repair and reduce acne scars, wrinkles, and other fine lines.
- Helps repair cracked heels: Castor oil contains several nutrients, many of which help lock in moisture—even on damaged skin. Applying castor oil to damaged or cracked heels can improve the skin’s hydration.
People often use castor oil as a lip balm, to soothe a sunburn, or to ease dry skin concerns, particularly on dry elbows and knees. If you are considering castor oil and you have never used it before, do a patch test to see if you have an adverse reaction.
To do a patch test, apply a quarter-size amount to the inside of your elbow for about seven to 10 days. If you do not develop a rash or irritation, you can likely continue using the product on larger areas of skin. However, if you plan to use it on your face or your lips, talk with a dermatologist first.
Once you feel comfortable that you can tolerate castor oil, dilute it with a carrier oil like jojoba oil. To apply the castor oil, consider following the National Eczema Association’s “Soak and Seal” method, especially if you are using it for dry skin. Here’s how it is done:
- Take a shower or bath in lukewarm water for about 5-10 minutes.
- Use a gentle, unscented cleanser and avoid scrubbing your skin.
- Pat your skin dry with a towel and leave it somewhat damp.
- Apply the castor oil within 3 minutes of getting out of the bath or shower to seal in moisture.
- Remember that castor oil can stain clothing and sheets, so take steps to protect any important items.
- Rinse the castor oil off in the morning if there is too much residue remaining.
Castor oil is a safe oil with very few side effects. However, there are a few things to consider before using castor oil:
- Has an odor and causes staining: Castor oil has a distinct odor that some people find unpleasant. Mixing it with a carrier oil or adding it to skincare products can help mask the scent. You should also be careful when using castor oil because it can stain your clothing.
- May cause skin irritation (contact dermatitis): For example, a 2017 study found that some people who used lip balm with castor oil as an ingredient experienced irritation. To be safe, test the oil on a small patch of skin before applying it to larger areas of your body or your face. If you have sensitive skin, you may be at risk for itchy skin (pruritus) and redness (erythema).
- May be unsafe during pregnancy: Talk to your doctor before using castor oil if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. While topical use of castor oil may be fine, there are risks if you take it orally. Consuming the oil while pregnant can cause labor to start. It may also pose some risks to the fetus.
- The hull contains ricin: Ricin, a potent toxin, is found in the hull (outer coating) of the castor bean. However, the hull is discarded when castor oil is manufactured. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that accidental exposure is highly unlikely. Most people who experience ricin poisoning ingest the castor beans.
Castor oil is an oil derived from the Ricinus communis plant. A compound in the plant called ricinoleic acid gives castor oil moisturizing properties that can benefit skin. Castor oil is also an anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial oil that can soothe inflamed or irritated skin.
If you are considering adding castor oil to your skincare regimen, be sure to test a small patch of skin first. After about a week of daily use, if you don’t have any irritation, it’s likely safe to use it on your skin. To be safe, talk to a healthcare provider about whether or not it is right for you.
