Castor oil (also sold as castorolie, ricinus oil, or castor oil) is one of the most frequently searched oils in our webshop, and also one of the most misunderstood. We founded More Natural after a long search for pure care for our own sensitive skin, and castor oil was a constant in our discoveries. What sets this oil apart is its exceptionally high concentration of ricinoleic acid: a rare fatty acid that is virtually non-existent in any other plant-based oil in such concentration.1 Because of this, it is incredibly versatile—ranging from dry skin patches, the eye area, and eyebrows to hair and body care. However, it also behaves differently than lighter oils: it is thicker, stickier, and more occlusive. In this article, we honestly explain what castor oil is (and isn't) good for, how to use it, and what to look for when choosing organic, cold-pressed quality. For an overview of all oils per skin type, read our oil guide. For broader context, read our article explaining natural skincare.
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1. What is castor oil: the difference between ricinus oil and castor oil
Castor oil, ricinus oil, and "castor oil" are three names for the exact same product: the oil extracted from the seeds of the castor oil plant, botanically known as Ricinus communis. The plant grows in tropical and subtropical regions and is cultivated globally for both industrial and cosmetic purposes. For skin and hair care, it is best to opt for organic, cold-pressed castor oil. Cold-pressing keeps temperatures low during extraction, which preserves the naturally present fatty acids far better. Cold-pressed castor oil has a pale yellow color with a characteristic, mildly nutty scent.
This oil has been used for centuries. In ancient Egypt, it was applied for skin care; later, it found its way into traditional practices across India and Africa. Today, castor oil is a staple ingredient in cosmetics, ranging from lip glosses to hair masks, thanks to its film-forming and softening properties. We cold-press our own castor oil at a maximum of 35°C, keeping it hexane-free and storing it in dark amber glass, because during our own search we all too often encountered refined, odorless varieties that had very little of the original oil's benefits left in them.
Castor oil is intended solely for external use. Internal ingestion of ricinus oil is a separate medical application for different purposes and falls outside the scope of cosmetic use.
2. Composition of castor oil: why ricinoleic acid makes the difference
What makes castor oil unique is its high content of ricinoleic acid, a hydroxy fatty acid that occurs almost exclusively in castor oil in nature. The proportion of ricinoleic acid typically ranges between 85 and 95 percent of the total fatty acid composition.1 This fatty acid is responsible for the oil's characteristically thick, viscous texture.
Due to the high concentration of ricinoleic acid, castor oil forms a film-forming layer on the skin that limits moisture loss. It penetrates less deeply than oils rich in linoleic acid or oleic acid, but functions effectively as a protective outer barrier precisely because of this film-forming ability. Ricinoleic acid has also been studied for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties; in experimental models, topically applied ricinoleic acid reduced swelling and the inflammatory response.2 We are deliberately cautious here: this research was largely conducted in laboratory and animal models, not in large-scale human clinical trials. Castor oil is therefore not a medicine, but a nourishing skincare oil.
| Fatty acid | Proportion in castor oil | Property |
|---|---|---|
| Ricinoleic acid | 85–95% | Film-forming, thick texture, protective |
| Oleic acid | 2–6% | Nournishing, supports skin barrier |
| Linoleic acid | 1–5% | Lightweight, skin-compatible |
Let's be honest: castor oil does not erase wrinkles. It keeps the skin supple and sealed, which can temporarily soften the appearance of fine lines, but it does not reverse structural skin aging.
3. Castor oil on the face: dry zones, wrinkles, and cleansing
We prefer to use castor oil on the face as a supplemental step rather than a primary daily oil—specifically targeting dry areas, as a cleansing oil, or as an evening treatment for mature skin. The film-forming effect of ricinoleic acid makes it exceptionally effective on areas that struggle to retain moisture. For normal or oily skin, castor oil is too heavy to use as a standalone facial oil; diluting it in a lighter carrier oil is almost always the right approach.
Castor oil on dry and rough facial areas
On chronically dry patches on the face, such as the corners of the nose, along the jawline, or dry cheeks, castor oil effectively seals the epidermis. Always dilute it with a lighter carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or argan oil, using a ratio of one part castor oil to two or three parts carrier oil.
Castor oil for wrinkles and fine lines: use as an evening treatment
For mature skin, castor oil is often used as a supplemental evening step on areas where wrinkles and fine lines are visible. Its thick, film-forming texture helps keep the skin supple and sealed overnight. Use it in combination with a lighter oil, such as rosehip oil, which has a composition that penetrates more readily. You can read about the full approach for mature skin in our article on castor oil for mature skin.
Castor oil as a cleansing oil (oil cleansing method)
Castor oil works beautifully as part of an oil cleansing method for the face, always blended with a lighter oil. A mixture of one part castor oil to three parts jojoba oil or argan oil yields an effective cleansing oil that dissolves makeup and excess sebum. Apply to a dry face, massage gently, and remove with a warm, damp washcloth.
4. Castor oil around the eyes, eyebrows, and eyelashes
The eye area is one of the most common places to use castor oil. The skin around the eyes is thin and sensitive, and it dries out easily. Castor oil is traditionally used here as a nourishing evening oil for the skin around the eyes, as well as for conditioning eyebrows and eyelashes.
Castor oil around the eyes
Apply a minimal amount of castor oil to the skin around the eyes using a clean finger or a cotton swab. Always use it diluted: a single small drop mixed with jojoba oil is sufficient for the entire eye area. Avoid direct contact with the eye itself. Castor oil is not suitable as an eye drop or for internal use. If you are looking for castor oil specifically to target puffiness or dark circles, read our dedicated blog post on how to naturally reduce under-eye bags.
Castor oil on eyebrows
Applying castor oil to eyebrows is one of its most popular uses. Use a clean spoolie or a cotton swab to apply a small amount along the brow hairs as an evening treatment. Its film-forming properties keep the hair follicles around the brows supple and protected.
Castor oil on eyelashes
Castor oil is applied to eyelashes in a similar way: use a clean, dry mascara wand or a cotton swab to sweep a tiny amount along the lash hairs as part of your evening routine. Avoid any contact with the eyeball itself. In case of irritation, stop immediately and rinse the area with lukewarm water.
Always use a fresh, clean applicator around the eye area to prevent bacterial contamination. Castor oil is intended strictly for external use.
5. Castor oil for eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin
Castor oil is frequently used on areas of the skin that feel dry, flaky, or reactive. Think of elbows, heels, knees, hands, and lips—areas that easily dry out due to friction, temperature changes, or frequent washing.
Castor oil for eczema and dry, itchy skin
For dry, sensitive, or mildly irritated skin, castor oil is sometimes used as an additional occlusive step layered over a lighter carrier oil. Its film-forming layer limits moisture loss and keeps the skin sealed. For eczema or other skin conditions, it is always wise to consult a dermatologist; castor oil is not a substitute for medical treatment.
Castor oil for psoriasis and flaky skin patches
On flaky body areas such as elbows and knees, castor oil can be used as a supplemental treatment. Its thick texture helps keep the outer layer of skin supple and protects it from further dehydration. Blend it with a neutral carrier oil for a more pleasant texture. For psoriasis or other chronic skin conditions, consulting a doctor is advised before adding new care products to your routine.
Castor oil for joints: external use
In traditional applications, castor oil is also applied externally to the skin around joints—a practice that traces back to centuries-old traditions in India and West Africa. Gently rub a small amount of castor oil onto the desired skin area. This is strictly intended for cosmetic, external use.
6. Castor oil for hair: hair growth, scalp, and dry ends
In hair care, castor oil is one of the most highly sought-after oils. It is used to soothe a dry scalp, nourish dry ends, and as a scalp massage oil. Searches like castor oil for hair growth, castor oil for eyebrows, and castor oil for eyelashes have been popular for years. Below, you'll find an honest breakdown of what to expect from each application.
Castor oil for hair growth: what do reviews say and what does the oil actually do?
Castor oil for hair growth is one of its most frequently searched uses, and experiences vary widely. Scientific evidence for a direct effect on hair growth is limited; the idea that castor oil makes your hair grow faster is largely a myth. What castor oil actually does: it conditions the scalp skin, keeps the tissue around the hair follicles supple, and limits moisture loss due to the film-forming properties of ricinoleic acid. Regular scalp massage with castor oil combines the conditioning benefits of the oil with the circulatory stimulation of the massage itself. In our experience, this is where most of the positive reviews originate. For a complete guide on how to use it, read our article on castor oil for hair and scalp.
Scalp massage for dryness and flaking
For a dry or flaking scalp, a small amount of castor oil can be massaged directly into the scalp. Dilute it with a lighter oil, such as jojoba oil. Leave it in for up to an hour and rinse thoroughly by applying shampoo to your hair while it is still dry to help emulsify and lift the oil.
Dry hair ends
On the hair ends, castor oil works wonderfully as a conditioning finish for dry or porous hair. Use a tiny amount: warm a fraction of a drop in your palm, then run it through the ends. Using too much will result in a heavy, greasy look that is difficult to wash out.
7. Castor oil on the body and specific areas
On the body, castor oil is best suited for chronically dry areas that require a protective, sealing layer. It is less suitable as an all-over body oil due to its thick consistency.
- Heels and soles: apply pure in the evening to clean, dry feet and put on cotton socks for an intensive overnight treatment.
- Elbows and knees: ideal for chronically dry, rough areas; apply pure or diluted in baobab or argan oil.
- Cuticles: massaging a tiny amount of castor oil into your cuticles keeps them supple and prevents hangnails or dryness.
- Lips: castor oil is a common ingredient in lip care due to its excellent film-forming and softening properties.
To find the perfect body oil for your skin type, read our article on the best natural body oils for different skin types.
8. Combining castor oil: which oils work best together?
Due to its thick texture, castor oil is most effective in most applications when combined with a lighter carrier oil. Our standard recommendation is one part castor oil to two or three parts of a lighter oil.
- Castor oil and jojoba oil: a lightweight, versatile combination suitable for oil cleansing and daily facial care.
- Castor oil and argan oil: slightly richer, suitable for drier skin and intensive hair care.
- Castor oil and rosehip oil: a lightweight facial blend for mature skin; store in a cool place due to the oxidative sensitivity of rosehip oil.
- Castor oil and baobab oil: a rich combination ideal for dry body patches or deep overnight care.
- Castor oil and hemp seed oil: a lightweight, linoleic-rich combination suitable for acne-prone skin that still benefits from the protective barrier of castor oil.
9. How to use castor oil: dosage, tips, and what to look for when buying
Castor oil has a thick texture that does not spread as easily as lighter oils. Whether you purchase castor oil from a drugstore, health food store, or an online specialist, always look for the quality indicators cold-pressed and, ideally, certified organic for use on your skin and hair. A few simple guidelines for daily use:
- Begin always with a tiny amount. Half a drop to a single drop is usually plenty for the face.
- Apply to slightly damp skin, right after misting with a hydrosol like rose water, to help it glide on smoothly.
- Use pure castor oil only on dry, localized body areas, not as an all-over facial oil.
- For facial care, always dilute it in a carrier oil.
- Wash castor oil out of your hair by massaging shampoo into dry hair before wetting it.
Our organic cold-pressed castor oil is intended strictly for external cosmetic use. Explore our castor oil collection.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. If you experience persistent skin issues, consult a general practitioner or dermatologist.
10. Who is castor oil suitable for, and when is it less suitable?
Not every skin type or application is a perfect match for castor oil. Here is a brief overview to help you make the right choice.
Castor oil is suitable for:
- Dry skin areas on the body like heels, elbows, knees, and lips, pure or lightly diluted.
- Eyebrows and eyelashes: as a nourishing evening treatment using a clean applicator.
- Hair ends and scalp: as a supplemental care step for dryness, diluted in a lighter carrier oil.
- Oil cleansing: blended with jojoba or argan oil as a facial cleansing oil.
- Mature, dry skin: as an occlusive final evening step on specific dry zones, always diluted.
Castor oil is less suitable for:
- Daily facial oil for oily or acne-prone skin: its high comedogenicity rating increases the likelihood of clogged pores.
- Pure application over the entire face: the thick texture does not distribute well and can feel heavy; diluting is always recommended.
- Sensitive skin without a patch test: always perform a 24-hour patch test in the crook of your elbow first.
- All-over body oil: the thick, sticky texture is less pleasant as a body lotion alternative; lighter oils like jojoba or baobab are much more comfortable.
11. Important considerations
Always perform a patch test: apply a tiny amount to the inside of your elbow and wait 24 hours before using it on your face or sensitive areas. Castor oil has a relatively high comedogenicity rating and can feel pore-clogging for certain skin types, particularly oily or acne-prone skin. If you have this skin type, restrict its use to body care or as a cleansing oil, never as a daily facial leave-on.
Store castor oil in a cool, dark place, preferably in its dark glass bottle. Once opened, it typically remains stable for one to two years. A changed odor or a cloudy appearance are signs of oxidation; do not use oxidized oil on your skin.
Sources
- Patel VR, Dumancas GG, Kasi Viswanath LC, Maples R, Subong BJJ. Castor Oil: Properties, Uses, and Optimization of Processing Parameters in Commercial Production. Lipid Insights. 2016;9:1-12.
- Vieira C, Evangelista S, Cirillo R, Lippi A, Maggi CA, Manzini S. Effect of ricinoleic acid in acute and subchronic experimental models of inflammation. Mediators of Inflammation. 2000;9(5):223-228.
Frequently asked questions
Castor oil: what is it good for and what is it used for?
Castor oil is used externally on dry skin areas (such as elbows, heels, and lips), around the eye area, on eyebrows and eyelashes, on the scalp and hair ends, and as part of the oil cleansing method. The film-forming properties of ricinoleic acid make it highly versatile as a protective, sealing care step for dry and delicate zones.
What is the difference between cold-pressed, refined, and black (Jamaican) castor oil?
Cold-pressed (golden-yellow) castor oil is extracted without heat, which best preserves its beneficial fatty acids. Refined or expeller-pressed oil is clearer and virtually odorless, but lacks some of the active components. Black (Jamaican) castor oil is made from roasted seeds, has a dark color, and is popular for hair care, but is not inherently superior—just processed differently. For skin and hair care, always opt for cold-pressed, preferably organic.
Castor oil for eyes: how do you use it around the eye area?
Apply a tiny amount of castor oil to the skin around the eyes with a clean finger or a cotton swab, never directly into the eye. Always use it diluted in jojoba oil. The skin around the eyes is exceptionally thin and sensitive; a single tiny drop for the entire area is sufficient. Apply it as the final step in your evening routine, keeping it away from the eyeball.
Is castor oil good for eyebrows and how do you use it?
Use a clean spoolie or a cotton swab to apply a small amount of castor oil along your brow hairs in the direction of growth. Use this as an evening treatment. Avoid excessive amounts, as too much can feel greasy and spread to surrounding skin. A small bottle with a brush applicator is the most convenient tool for daily use.
Castor oil for psoriasis and dry, flaky skin: how do you use it?
On dry, flaky skin areas such as elbows or knees, castor oil is used as a supplemental occlusive step. Apply it after a lighter oil to seal the skin and prevent moisture loss. For psoriasis or other chronic skin conditions, it is best to consult a dermatologist before incorporating castor oil into your routine.
Castor oil for eczema: is it suitable for dry, irritated skin?
For dry, sensitive, or mildly irritated skin, castor oil is sometimes used as a supplemental, protective outer layer over a lighter nourishing oil. Its film-forming properties can help keep the skin protected. Always perform a patch test before using castor oil on highly reactive skin. For eczema or other skin issues, castor oil is not a substitute for medical treatment.
Castor oil for joints: what is its topical use?
In traditional practices, castor oil is applied topically to the skin surrounding joints. This is strictly a cosmetic, external skin application, not a medical treatment. Gently rub a small amount into the skin around the joint. For persistent joint issues, a medical consultation is always recommended.
Is castor oil good for hair growth?
Scientific evidence for a direct effect on hair growth is limited; faster or thicker hair from castor oil is largely a myth. What castor oil actually does: it conditions the scalp skin, keeps the tissue around the hair follicles supple, and limits moisture loss. Regular scalp massages stimulate circulation, which can benefit overall scalp health.
What is the difference between castor oil, ricinus oil, and castorolie?
Castor oil, ricinus oil, and "castorolie" are three names for the exact same product: the oil extracted from the seeds of Ricinus communis. "Castor oil" is the English term, while "castorolie" and "ricinusolie" are the common Dutch terms. Please note: ricinus oil sold as a laxative is a separate medical product and is not the same as cosmetic, cold-pressed castor oil meant for topical application.
Can I use castor oil pure on my face?
For most people, pure castor oil is too heavy for the face. Its thick texture is difficult to spread and can feel pore-clogging. Always dilute it with a lighter oil, such as jojoba or argan, in a ratio of one part castor oil to two or three parts carrier oil. Using it pure is only practical on specific dry areas of the body.
Can you use castor oil during pregnancy?
Topical cosmetic application on the skin is very different from internal ingestion or castor oil packs, both of which are discouraged during pregnancy. Exercise caution and, when in doubt, always consult your midwife or doctor before adding castor oil to your routine. This article does not replace professional medical advice.
Castor oil side effects: what should you watch out for?
Castor oil is well tolerated by most people for topical use. Potential considerations: its high comedogenicity rating can lead to clogged pores for oily or acne-prone skin; sensitivity to ricinus oil is possible for those with an allergy to the castor oil plant. Always perform a patch test in the crook of your elbow 24 hours prior to first use. Discontinue immediately if irritation or redness occurs.
How do I get castor oil out of my hair?
Due to its thick texture, castor oil can be stubborn to wash out. Apply shampoo to dry hair before wetting it. This helps the shampoo emulsify and lift the oil. Afterward, rinse thoroughly with warm water. Repeat the shampoo step if the oil is not completely removed. Be sure to use a smaller amount in your next treatment.
How long does castor oil keep and how do you store it?
Castor oil is relatively stable and typically keeps for one to two years after opening when stored in a cool, dark place. The high concentration of ricinoleic acid makes it more stable than oils containing large amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids. A changed odor or a cloudy appearance are indicators of oxidation. Do not apply oxidized oil to your skin.
Castor oil in the ear: is it safe and how is it used topically?
Traditionally, castor oil is also applied topically around the ear—onto the outer cartilage or the soft skin behind the ear. This falls strictly under external cosmetic skin care. Dripping castor oil directly into the ear canal is outside the scope of cosmetic skincare use. For ear complaints or hearing issues, always consult a general practitioner.
Best castor oil for face and hair: what should you look for when purchasing?
The best castor oil for face and hair is cold-pressed and, ideally, certified organic. Cold-pressing preserves beneficial fatty acids much better than heat extraction methods. Pure cold-pressed castor oil has a pale yellow tint and a recognizable mild aroma. Heavily bleached or completely odorless variants are often refined. For use around the eyes, brows, and lashes, 100% pure, unrefined quality is the most reliable choice.
Discover also our castor oil and our natural oils collection.
