From Dull to Dazzling: How to Use Castor Oil on Hair
Castor oil is a vegetable oil derived from Ricinus communis, a plant native to the eastern hemisphere.
According to science, Castor oil does not improve the quality of hair.
But it has been used for centuries as a natural hair strength and loss remedy.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association states that daily hair loss of 50 to 100 is normal.
Continue reading to learn more about it and how to use castor oil on hair.
What is Castor oil
Castor oil is an odorless vegetable oil obtained from castor beans that can also be yellow or deep brown, depending on how it’s processed.
The most common application of castor oil is as a laxative.
Yet, castor oil is a common treatment for many infections due to its inherent antiviral and antibacterial qualities.
It is also used to promote hair growth.
Castor oil contains up to 90% Ricinoleic acid, 4% Linoleic acid, 3% Oleic acid, 1% Stearic acid, and less than 1% Linolenic acid.
Castor oil is valued due to its high amount of Ricinoleic acid (RA) employed in various chemical applications.
Castor oil also contains Vitamin E, Omega nine, and Omega six, which helps in hair growth.
- Yellow castor oil
- Black castor oil or Jamaican castor oil
How to apply Castor oil to hair
All hair types can benefit from Castor oil's moisturizing and smoothening properties.
Some individuals use Castor oil to treat hair loss or to lengthen their hair.
Here is how to use castor oil on hair:
- Put Castor oil in your palm and massage it from root to tip into your hair. (Avoid using too much, as castor oil is thick and might be harder to remove)
- Massage thoroughly in your hair
- Let the oil sit for at least 15-20 minutes. You can even leave Castor oil on hair overnight
- To remove the oil, you will need to shampoo several times
- After washing your hair, gently towel dry it
Castor oil with essential oils
Adding essential and carrier oils can give added benefits.
Essential oils like Rosemary, Lavender, Tree tea oil, and Peppermint help improve blood circulation and are known for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties.
Some of these essential oils, like Rosemary, also treat Alopecia.
These oils can also help eliminate the smell of Castor oil that is overpowering to a few people.
Apply Castor oil as usual after adding a few drops of the essential oils.
Castor oil with carrier oils
Carrier oils like Coconut, Olive, Jojoba, and Avocado, among others, can also be used along with Castor oil for hair growth.
Some of these oils effectively protect hair from ultraviolet rays and moisturize and nourish hair growth.
Add a few drops of Carrier oil with castor oil for added benefits.
Benefits of castor oil for hair growth
Even though there is no scientific evidence on the benefits of castor oil on hair, there have been many claims about its benefits.
Some of them are:
- It promotes healthier hair by increasing blood flow to the scalp.
- Using castor oil once a month might increase hair growth by up to five times the normal rate.
- It can hydrate a dry, itchy scalp.
- The antibacterial and antifungal properties of castor oil help in decreasing dandruff.
- It can aid hair growth in other body areas, such as the brows and eyelashes.
Precautions
Doing a patch test with a few strands of hair is also recommended.
Castor oil has the potential to discolor your towels and clothes.
Using a shower cap, an old t-shirt, or a towel to cover your head until you're ready to wash your hair will help keep the oil from getting on your clothes.
Remember that the hair may need two washing treatments to eliminate castor oil thoroughly.
Takeaway
Castor oil has been used as a hair loss treatment for years.
It contains vitamin E and omega fatty acid that helps in hair growth.
Castor oil can be used in your hair in many ways.
Adding essential oil and carrier oil can also give some added benefits.
It is recommended to consult with your doctor before using castor oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I leave Castor oil in my hair?
Castor oil can be left on your hair for 15-20 mins or overnight for the best results. But leaving it on for more than that can also lead to build-up. It is recommended to wash your hair with clarifying shampoo as it can quickly remove the dense oil.
Do I put Castor oil on wet or dry hair?
It doesn't matter if the hair is wet or dry as long as you apply it to clean the hair. But wet hair tends to absorb products easier, so it is recommended to use Castor oil when your hair is still damp for the best results.
Can I use Castor oil on my hair every day?
Castor oil should be applied once a week, not daily, as it can cause build-up and matting in the hair. Washing your hair correctly after using the hair is also essential.
Can we leave castor oil on hair overnight?
Yes, Castor oil can be left in your hair overnight. But it should be kept at most as it might lead to matting and build-up.
Is Castor oil good for hair growth?
Yes. Castor oil is known for its hair growth properties. It has been used as a treatment for hair growth for centuries. It contains vitamin E and Omega 6 and 9 fatty acids, which are beneficial for hair.
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