Castor oil: Long hair quickly and naturally!

For more than 2,500 years, ancient cultures like the Egyptians used castor oil as the secret to shiny and healthy hair. But what is castor oil, and how can we incorporate it into our daily skincare routine?

What is castor oil?

Castor oil is a natual oil produced from the seeds of the tropical plant Ricinus communis. It is a very thick, clear to slightly yellowish oil.

This powerful vegetable oil is rich in:

• Vitamin E
• omega-6,
• omega 9 fatty acids
• and ricinoleic acid, which promises to restore vitality and health to damaged hair.

How does castor oil improve hair health?

• Hydration and repair: Castor oil is rich in both Vitamin E and ricinoleic acid, a unique fatty acid that can penetrate deep into the scalp and hair, providing intense hydration. This helps repair dry and damaged hair, leaving it softer and smoother.
• Treatment and prevention of hair loss: Research shows that castor oil can support healthy hair growth by increasing circulation to the scalp and strengthening hair roots. This can lead to long and thick hair faster.
• Hair thinning: By increasing blood circulation to the hair follicles, castor oil supports healthy hair growth. The omega-6 fatty acids it contains help to improve the overall health of the hair.
• Damage Protection: Castor oil creates a protective layer around the hair shaft, protecting hair from heat damage and humidity, which can cause frizz and other damage.
• Frizz: The constant use of styling products and an unbalanced diet weakens the hair from the ends and is responsible for causing frizz. Castor oil, thanks to its nutritional properties, can reverse this situation.
• Antibacterial and Antifungal Action: Ricinoleic acid also has antimicrobial properties, helping to fight infections that may occur on the scalp, such as dandruff.
• Shine: Using castor oil can leave hair shiny and full of life as it reflects more light due to its improved appearance.

How is it used on hair?

Here is a basic and general guide on how to use it effectively:

1. Heating the oil: Slightly heat a small amount of castor oil (ideally in a pot of hot water). Warm oil facilitates application and improves its penetration into the scalp.
2. Scalp Application: Apply the oil directly to the scalp using your fingers or a brush. Massage in gentle, circular motions to increase circulation and help the oil penetrate deeper into the hair follicles.
3. Apply to the ends: You can also apply castor oil to the ends of your hair, especially if it is dry or frizzy. This will make them softer and less prone to breaking.
4. Covering hair: Cover your hair with a warm towel or shower cap to retain heat, which helps the active ingredients of the oil work deeper.
5. Time of action: Leave the oil on your hair for at least an hour or better if you can, leave it on overnight.
6. Rinse: Wash your hair with a mild shampoo to remove the oil. It may take two or more washes to completely rid the hair of the oil. Important! For easier rinsing, you should first apply the shampoo and then wet your hair.

Extra Tip: Yes, for those of you wondering, castor oil can be mixed with other natural oils to enhance its healing properties and adjust its texture, making its application even better. Here are some popular oils that you can mix with castor oil in a 1:1 ratio.

• Coconut Oil: Coconut oil adds hydration and has antimicrobial properties, which is beneficial in treating dry skin and other scalp problems.
• Almond oil: Almond oil is rich in vitamins E and A, which help strengthen the hair and provide extra hydration.
• Argan Oil: Argan oil is recommended to help repair damaged hair and protect hair from heat.
• Hippophae Oil: This combination can help reduce hair loss and improve hair texture.

How often do I put castor oil on my hair?

The frequency with which you should use castor oil in your hair depends on your hair type and its specific needs. However, some general guidelines are as follows:

Normal hair: 1 time per week

Dry/Damaged hair: 2-3 times a week

Oily hair: 1 time every 2 weeks

Experts recommend using it for up to 3 months in a row.

Does castor oil have any side effects?

Do not forget that this is quite thick and heavy oil and in rare cases, it can cause:

• Pore blockage: Leading to increased sebum production or even acne breakouts.
• Appearance of Dermatitis: In extremely rare cases, inflammation can be caused by its overuse, especially when applied to sensitive skin.
• Allergic reactions: Castor oil allergies are not particularly common. However, if it occurs, it can cause itching, redness, and even a rash.

Conclusion

Castor oil is a valuable natural ally for hair care. Its moisturizing and nourishing properties, as well as its ability to protect against hair loss and split ends, make it an ideal choice for those who wish to maintain or restore vitality to their hair.

At Vita4you.gr you will find a variety of castor oils!

Sources

1. Internation Journal Of Trichology (2015), Hair Cosmetics: An Overview https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
2. Elsevier (2015), Anti-inflammatory effects of a novel ricinoleic acid poloxamer gel system for transdermal delivery https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
3. Elsevier (2015), In silico prediction of prostaglandin D2 synthase inhibitors from herbal constituents for the treatment of hair loss  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
4. Byrdie (2024) Can Castor Oil Give You Long, Thick, and Healthy Hair? Experts Weigh In https://www.byrdie.com/castor-oil-for-hair-growth
5. Verywellhealth (2024), Castor Oil for Hair Growth Benefits, Side Effects, and How to Use It https://www.verywellhealth.com/using-castor-oil-for-hair-growth
6. Healthline (2024), 4 Benefits and Uses of Castor Oil  https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/castor-oil
7. Ambuja Solvex Pvt. Ltd (2024), 5 Perfect Partners for Castor Oil in Hair & Skin Care, https://www.ambujasolvex.com/blog/5-essential-oils-to-mix-castor-oil/