Why We Swear By Castor Oil

It’s not too often we come across an under $10 natural beauty product available at CVS that works wonders for skin AND hair. Celebrity hair colorist Jenna Perry recently turned us onto castor oil as an at-home hair mask and scalp treatment and I haven’t put it down since. In fact, my love for castor oil is in strong competition with my passion for coconut oil, which speaks volumes.

Castor oil is a yellow-tinted thick oil derived from the seeds of the ricinus communis plant. It is packed with antioxidants, Vitamin E and fatty acids. With it you will say hello to supple skin and lengthy locks! Check out some of our favorite ways to use it:

Hair Treatment

Work castor oil into the scalp, comb remnants through your ends, wrap your hair up in a bun and leave in for at least an hour. You can keep it in a sleek low bun and go out without looking as if you have a treatment in. As someone with fine hair who finds most oil products heavy and difficult to wash out, castor oil is a game changer (shockingly, due to its thick texture). Post shampoo, you can expect frizz-free, soft hair. You can also use it daily to help prevent split ends. Place a dime-sized amount in your palm and gently work though your ends.

Hair Growth

Castor oil is believed to stimulate hair growth. You can catch me slathering it on my eyebrows every day. While I haven't hit Cara Delevingne brows (yet), I’ve noticed significant growth and increased fullness. You can also lightly coat your eyelashes. For those patiently awaiting their next lash extensions appointment, this is the perfect time to try some natural nourishment.

Preventing Wrinkles

Castor oil has been reported to stimulate collagen production in the body. Using a cotton ball, dab it around the eye and other areas of delicate or wrinkle prone skin to help moisturize and plump. Castor oil contains anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory ricinoleic acid, so it can even help with acne.

Healing Dry Skin

After the shower, massage castor oil onto damp skin. Give yourself a nice foot massage before bed with the oil and after just a few days, you’ll have some unbelievably soft, flip-flop-ready feet.