Natural Hair Care

6 Most Effective Ways To Use Castor Oil For Hair

Updated: April 2, 2020

(This post contains affiliate links. You can read my full disclosure here)

castor oil for hair

(This post contains affiliate links. You can read my full disclosure here.)

Castor oil is considered as a boon for hair. Whether it’s thinning hair, split ends, dry scalp and frizz, hair growth problem, it can help to solve almost every hair problems. Castor oil for hair has many nutrients like vitamin E, omega-9 and 6 fatty acids, and proteins which give it unique moisturizing properties that are ideal for maintaining healthy hair. Let’s take a look at how castor oil is good for hair.


Benefits of Castor Oil For Hair

Castor Oil is the best option for healthy hair. There is some rationale that PGD2(Hormones) might lead to hair loss in some people. Given that ricinoleic acid – a component of castor oil – can block/inhibit PGD2, does appear to lend some evidence to its effects. The main ingredient of castor oil is ricinoleic acid and omega fatty acids which make it a boon for hair related problems. Let’s take a look at the benefits of castor oil for hair.

  • Castor oil has the ricinoleic acid which accelerates blood circulation to the scalp, hence increasing hair growth. It works on nourishing the scalp and strengthening the roots. It also has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties making castor oil for hair your secret weapon to treat your damaged hair. (Source)
  • In the study, scalp tissue with high levels of Prostaglandin E2 had healthy hair growth but in balding areas, it was found in much lower levels. Castor oil made up of 90% of fatty acid chains unclogs the block pores and helps the hair to grow.

Accounting for more than 90% of castor oil’s constitution, ricinoleic acid is the single largest component, is mono-unsaturated and features 18 carbons. What renders it different is that its 12th carbon comprises of a hydroxyl functional group. It is courtesy of this structure of ricinoleic acid that castor oil derives its polar nature and hence is chemically more nourishing for the scalp. 

Hair growth is spurred by a lipid compound named Prostaglandin (PGE2) and it could be best described as a catalyst. While its presence in high concentration promotes growth of hair, its depletion causes hair loss and eventually leads to baldness. Castor oil’s principle component – ricinoleic acid – has been scientifically proven to stimulate the production of Prostaglandin (PGE2) when applied to the scalp. Enhanced production of this lipid, particularly in bald spots, enriches hair follicles and encourages regeneration of hair.

  • It helps to get rid of the dry scalp which can lead to dandruff and itchy scalp. It treats scalp infection which can cause major hair problems like bald patches, itchy scalp, etc. Castor oil is filled with essential nutrients like vitamin E, omega-6 fatty acids, etc, which will help you to treat split ends and breakage. It helps castor oil to get penetrate deeply into the hair follicle and nourish the hair roots. It makes hair softer and manageable and controls water loss in hair.
See also  5 Best DIY Hair Mask For Split Ends

 6 Most Effective Ways To Use Castor Oil For Hair

1. Castor Oil For Hair Growth

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon castor oil (Buy From Here – US | India)
  • 2 drops of rosemary essential oil (Buy From Here – US | India)
  • 1 tablespoon virgin coconut oil (Buy From Here – US | India)
  • You can adjust the proportion of oil according to your hair density

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and apply to your scalp first and then hair strands. You can keep it overnight or rinse it off with a mild shampoo after 1 hour. Repeat it 2-3 times a week to see the result.

Castor oil carries ricinoleic acid and omega- 6 essential fatty acids and coconut oil have vitamin K, A, and E which accelerate blood circulation to the scalp, hence increasing hair growth. It works on nourishing the scalp and strengthening the roots with the help of essential nutrients. Rosemary essential oil is one of the premier hair growth-enhancing essential oils. It is packed with antioxidants which help scavenge free radicals – that are responsible for graying as well as hair thinning. It is also effective for treating dandruff, itchiness, scalp irritation and oily skin.


2. Castor Oil For Hair Dandruff

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoon castor oil (Buy From Here – US | India)
  • 2 drops of tea tree essential oil (Buy From Here – US | India)
  • 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel (Buy From Here – US | India)

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and apply to your scalp first and then hair strands. You can keep it overnight or rinse it off with a mild shampoo after 1 hour. Repeat it 2-3 times a week to see the result.

Aloe vera gel has the essential nutrients that help to regulate healthy sebum which keeps hair from drying out and breaking off. In addition, Vitamin C fights dandruff causing microbes and calms itchy scalp. A mixture of castor oil and aloe vera gel will make your hair healthy, provide moisture to the hair strand and will remove dandruff too. Tea tree oil has antiseptic, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties which kill the harmful microbes causing dandruff. It also promotes hair growth and minimizes the hair fall problem. After applying this natural remedy you will get relieved from dandruff and itchy scalp related to dryness.


3. Castor Oil For Dry and Damaged Hair

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon castor oil  (Buy From Here – US | India)
  • 2 tablespoon argan oil  (Buy From Here – US | India)

Take castor oil and argan oil in a small bowl and place this bowl in a larger bowl containing hot water. This will warm the oil and warm oil will deep condition your hair and scalp. Now, apply this to your scalp first and then hair strands. You can keep it overnight or rinse it off with a mild shampoo after 1 hour. Repeat it 2-3 times a week to see the result.

Argan oil has vitamin E and this is extremely beneficial for hair. Vitamin E promotes healthy hair growth as it contains antioxidants, which help boost cells and encourage them to produce healthy hair. It can act as a moisturizer for the scalp to fight dandruff and dry scalp. It can even undo some of the damage done through chemical treatments and dyes and can be used to treat split ends. It is an excellent agent for taming frizz and promoting shine and gloss, as well as softer, more manageable hair. The mixture of argan oil and castor oil can do a lot to your hair and will provide essential nutrients to regain its lost luster and shine.

See also  13 Best Coconut Oil Hair Mask

4. Castor Oil For Hair Fall

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon castor oil (Buy From Here – US | India)
  • 1 tablespoon almond oil (Buy From Here – US | India)
  • 2 drops of clary sage essential oil (Buy From Here – US | India)

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and apply to your scalp. You can keep it overnight(recommended) or rinse it off with a mild shampoo after 1 hour. Repeat it 2-3 times a week to see the result.

Almond oil has vitamin A and E which accelerate blood circulation to the scalp, hence increasing hair growth. It works on nourishing the scalp and strengthening the roots with the help of essential nutrients and prevents them from falling.

Sage is a traditional topical treatment for graying hair, and the herb may promote new hair growth and stops un-natural hair falling, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Sage has antibiotic, antiallergic and antiseptic properties and is a source of magnesium, zinc, potassium, and vitamins B and C which are the essential nutrients for healthy hair. (Source)


5. Castor Oil For Hair Split Ends

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon castor oil (Buy From Here – US | India)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (Buy From Here – US | India)

Take 1 egg and mix 1 tablespoon coconut oil well. Now, add 1 tablespoon of castor oil to the mixture and apply to the scalp and hair. Keep it for at least 30 minutes and wash it off with shampoo. You can repeat it for at least once in a week.

This egg, castor oil and coconut oil hair mask will provide the nutrients necessary to improve dry and damaged hair with split ends. Eggs have the maximum amount of protein that makes hair soft and shiny and also promotes hair growth. castor and coconut oil will deeply moisturize your scalp and makes scalp healthy.


6. Castor Oil For deep Hair conditioner

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon castor oil (Buy From Here – US | India)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (Buy From Here – US | India)
  • 1 avocado

In a small mixing bowl or the bowl of a mixer, add the avocado, castor oil and coconut oil. Mix on high until smooth. Dampen hair with water.  Firstly apply the mask to your scalp completely and then spread the mask onto hair, paying particular attention to the ends. Clip your hair onto the top of your head, cover with a shower cap, and keep it for 40-45 minutes. Remove shower cap, rinse out the mask, and then wash the hair with mild shampoo. Do this at least a week to get smoother and healthier hair.

Avocado is loaded with potassium (nearly twice as much as bananas) and contains protein, among the highest of all fruit. Its moisturizing properties make hair shiny and keep the hair moisturized. The fatty acids and high levels of antioxidants like vitamin E in avocados have the protective effect against environmental stressors and damage, it may also stimulate new growth and help unclog blocked follicles. Avocados, coconut and castor oil work at the cellular level to protect and strengthen hair. Vitamin E present in avocado and coconut oil helps to repair damage to the scalp, which may slow or prevent hair growth. Vitamin B present in avocado is essential for hair growth and it locks moisture into hair cells, nourishes hair cells, and strengthens hair roots, shaft, and strands.

See also  How to stop Hair Fall - 6 Proven Hair Oil Remedies

How to wash castor oil from hair

Castor oil is thick and sticky by nature. Hence, washing this oil off your hair can be a tough task. Below are some guidelines that you can use to tackle this problem easily.

  • Use mild warm water to damp your scalp and hair. This process will open your scalp pores to release the stored grime and dirt. Take some shampoo in your palms and add some water to it. Rub your palms to form a rich lather. This action will make your palms moist, thus avoiding friction that causes breakage.
  • Apply the shampoo to your hair and scalp. Massage gently using your fingertips. Let the shampoo stay for one minute and wash it off with normal water to close the opened pores. You can use your hair conditioner also after the shampoo. Use a good quality comb to untangle your hair.

 What Type Of Castor Oil Should You Use For Hair?

There are three types of castor oil that are popularly used for hair care –

1. Organic/Cold Pressed Castor Oil

Extracted directly from the castor seed with no heat involved. The cold pressing ensures that there is no degradation of any of the nutrients present in the seed. It is pale yellow in color. If you have curly hair and an itchy or dry scalp that is prone to irritation, it is recommended that you use unrefined, hexane-free organic castor oil as it is less alkaline than Jamaican Black Castor Oil.

2. Jamaican Black Castor Oil

Initially roasted and then pressed for oil. The ashes of the roasted castor seeds are added to the oil, which gives it its black color and if you have straight hair and a healthy scalp, you are more likely to benefit from JBCO, which is better at penetrating and cleansing.

Note: While the nutritional value of both Jamaican Black Castor Oil and organic castor oil is about the same but Jamaican Black Castor Oil is more alkaline, making it a more clarifying oil that can help open cuticles.

3. Hydrogenated Castor Oil

It is made by hydrogenating pure castor oil with the help of a catalyst. Unlike regular castor oil, castor wax is brittle, odorless, and insoluble in water and mainly used in cosmetics, varnishes, and polishes.


Precaution

  • While castor oil is generally safe, you might experience side effects if you are allergic to certain ingredients present in it. Do a patch test before you apply castor oil and essential oils on a large scale.
  • Rub a few drops of castor oil on your forearm or feet and keep it on for 24 hours. If you witness any type of reaction, even slight redness or itching, I suggest you avoid using castor oil.

Complete Hair Care

Remember when it comes to fixing your hair problems, it’s not just once oil or a recipe which will help you. Hair care is a continuous task which requires a few routine changes.

Our Essential Oil Hair Care Collection programs make you ready for that.

It has all the required resources for proper hair care like essential oil guide, carrier oil guide, hair care recipes for various hair problems. Additionally, you also need profile details about essential oils and carrier oils. It has helped moms and families take the required step to start using essential oils in their life and specifically for hair care.

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castor oil for hair

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50 Comments

  • Reply
    v
    January 12, 2018 at 9:13 pm

    Hi..
    Did you get this split end hair mask from an ayurvedic doctor? Does the mask repair split ends or do we have to get rid of the split ends first and then use this remedy? I have shoulder length hair with lots of split ends near the scalp.

    • Reply
      Mamta
      January 22, 2018 at 4:14 pm

      Hi Veena,
      You can use this with or without removing the split ends. This mask is effective in removing split ends, so nothing to be worried about. Be regular with this routine.

  • Reply
    akanksha bajaj
    January 30, 2018 at 8:22 am

    hey could u tell me that if i mix castor oil with alotin hair oil for hairfall is it okay?

    • Reply
      Mamta
      March 4, 2018 at 6:06 am

      Hi Akanksha,
      Yes you can mix castor oil.

    • Reply
      yashi
      May 20, 2018 at 9:54 am

      Use peppermint oil

  • Reply
    Vismaya
    March 9, 2018 at 2:49 pm

    Will the usage of castor oil curls the straight hair?

    • Reply
      Mamta
      March 15, 2018 at 4:28 pm

      Hi Vismaya,
      No this won’t.

  • Reply
    Janhavi
    March 24, 2018 at 6:30 am

    Hi…i have curly, frizzy hair and lot of split ends.
    If I use Castor oil with Vitamin E capsule…will it help to get rid of split ends???also is split ends main reason for no hair growth in curly hair??

    • Reply
      Mamta
      May 22, 2018 at 2:22 pm

      Hi Janhavi,
      Yes, you can use this mixture. This will help you to get rid of split ends. If you add shea butter to this, it will become even more effective.
      Split ends do inhibit hair growth.

    • Reply
      Janet
      July 14, 2018 at 12:37 pm

      Youtube search: curly girl method. It saved my hair! Using the right products and being more gentle I’ve gone from frizz to ringlets in a few months.

  • Reply
    Maha
    March 27, 2018 at 11:54 am

    Hi
    Do i need to wash it off my hair
    I use it more like a day cream at night

    • Reply
      Mamta
      May 11, 2018 at 6:28 am

      Hi MAha, Yes you have to wash the hair after applying it.

  • Reply
    victoria
    April 20, 2018 at 4:32 pm

    Hello,
    Is is safe to leave small amount of oil in hair and use curling iron/straight iron? Will hair burn?
    Thanks!

    • Reply
      Mamta
      May 22, 2018 at 2:01 pm

      Hi Victoria,
      No, you can’t.

    • Reply
      Ssbrina
      November 26, 2018 at 5:17 pm

      No. Of course it will burn it’s heat and oil, I wouldn’t rush it hun

  • Reply
    ISHITA KARMAKAR
    April 22, 2018 at 3:26 pm

    Is castor oil effective for hair regrowth or remedy of baldness?

    • Reply
      Mamta
      May 22, 2018 at 1:55 pm

      Hi Ishita,
      Castor oil is great for hair fall and hair growth problem. For baldness and hair regrowth castor oil will take time, but be consistent it will show the results.

  • Reply
    Parimala
    May 9, 2018 at 4:27 am

    Shall we use only castor oil and coconut oil in equal quantities twice a week for hair regrowth, is it enough for this?

    • Reply
      Mamta
      May 9, 2018 at 7:22 am

      Hi Parimala, You can use the castor and coconut oil mixture for hair growth but adding essential oils to the mixture will speed up the growth process and also provide other essential nutrients to your hair and roots.

  • Reply
    Hana
    May 26, 2018 at 7:17 pm

    Before applying the mask do i apply on wet or dry hair, and after i shampoo it out do i use conditioner ?

    • Reply
      Mamta
      May 27, 2018 at 6:12 am

      Hi Hana, Apply the mask before shampoo and conditioner on dry hair.

  • Reply
    maryk
    May 27, 2018 at 5:30 pm

    I have a easy question? You say to use a mild shampoo? What kind is a mild shsmpoo?
    Mary K.

    • Reply
      Mamta
      July 4, 2018 at 11:34 am

      Hi Maryk,
      A mild shampoo is an organic and herbal shampoo which you can get in the market. This is made with natural ingredients and does not contain chemicals.

  • Reply
    Fowmitha
    June 12, 2018 at 10:33 am

    Hiii
    Can I mix and apply castor oil with the homemade herbal oil?
    Is this good for hair growth and reducing hair fall?

    • Reply
      Mamta
      June 13, 2018 at 4:42 pm

      Hi Fowmitha, yes you can use it.

  • Reply
    Poonam Sethi
    June 15, 2018 at 2:33 am

    What are essential oils exactly?

    • Reply
      Mamta
      July 4, 2018 at 11:09 am

      Hi Poonam, refer this –
      An essential oil is a concentrated hydrophobic liquid containing volatile aroma compounds from plants. Essential oils are also known as the oil of the plant from which they were extracted. An oil is “essential” in the sense that it contains the “essence of” the plant’s fragrance—the characteristic fragrance of the plant from which it is derived.
      The oils hydrate and heal your skin without clogging the pores. Plus, they help deal with many skin conditions – from acne, dryness, aging to excessive oil.

  • Reply
    Cecile
    June 17, 2018 at 7:22 pm

    I can use castor oil for my falling hair and boldness. Small Spots in my hair.

    • Reply
      Mamta
      June 18, 2018 at 7:54 am

      Hi Cecile, Using castor oil mixed with essential oils will really help hair problems.

  • Reply
    Manish singh
    June 28, 2018 at 2:12 am

    Do i mix castor oil with vitamin Eand olive oil for hairfall and hair growth?

    • Reply
      Mamta
      July 4, 2018 at 10:28 am

      Hi Manish, Yes you can use it.

  • Reply
    Anand
    June 28, 2018 at 7:23 am

    Shall I use minoxidil with caster oil?

    • Reply
      Mamta
      July 4, 2018 at 10:27 am

      Hi Anand,
      I am not sure about this. Please consult your doctor who prescribed you to use minoxidil.

  • Reply
    Aswini v nair
    June 30, 2018 at 1:12 am

    I am using this remedy ….my hair is already extra soft….now I have hair loss after applying this….is this good for soft thinned hair??

    • Reply
      Mamta
      July 4, 2018 at 10:25 am

      Hi, Aswini,
      Which remedy are you using, please let me know so that I can help.

  • Reply
    Kristin
    July 23, 2018 at 8:17 am

    Hello, will using castor oil and EO to treat hair los cause issues to color treated hair? Specifically blond.

    Thank you!

    • Reply
      Mamta
      July 30, 2018 at 5:57 am

      Hi Kristin, No, it will not effect your hair color.

    • Reply
      Nancy
      August 12, 2018 at 9:10 pm

      I’ve read that rosemary essential oil may tend to darken hair a bit.

      • Reply
        Mamta
        August 22, 2018 at 7:34 am

        Hi Nancy, rosemary oil prevents greying of hair and will help you to regain the hair’s actual color.

  • Reply
    Christina Evans
    July 23, 2018 at 8:05 pm

    I’ve used castor oil for my damaged eyelash hair and have seen tremendous improvement in the last 3 weeks of using it. I started using it about 2 months ago it took a little while before my damaged eyelash hairs to start looking thicker but now it’s back stronger than before!

  • Reply
    Joy
    July 30, 2018 at 9:53 am

    Hi mamta,

    I just purchased the castor oil ,coconut oil, and andrea oil,
    I also heard about avocado pear and egg.
    please advise me on how to grow my hair, stop breakages and split end.
    i want a fuller, longer and shinny hair.
    My front hair is scanty and cuts

    • Reply
      Mamta
      February 5, 2019 at 6:29 am

      Hi Andrea,
      All the oils that you have mentioned are good for hair growth and also makes hair soft. You can mix different oils in equal proportion and make an overnight hair serum. Also, you can add essential oils for extra benefits like rosemary, lavender, cedarwood, rose, sandalwood, and geranium. You can add anyone or in a combination of different essential oils.

  • Reply
    mark
    October 1, 2018 at 11:04 am

    Hi,

    For hair fall and hair growth, what mixture should i use ?
    castor oil
    rosemary oil
    virgin coconut oil
    almond oil
    clary sage essential oil

    Should i mix all these? or what would you recommend to tackle both hair fall and hair growth.

    Thankyou 🙂 x

    • Reply
      Mamta
      October 5, 2018 at 2:08 pm

      Hi Mark,
      The oils you mentioned helps in reducing hair fall and also stimulates hair growth. You can mix castor oil, coconut oil and almond oil in equal proportions and mix few drops of clary sage and rosemary oil. Apply twice a week.

  • Reply
    Rachael
    January 19, 2019 at 4:44 am

    Hi, I would like to know I don’t really wash my hair often so if I apply the castor oil in my hair can I wash it once a week or do I have to wash it the following day… As I heard if the castor oil is kept for too long it could cause damage to the hair.

    • Reply
      Mamta
      January 28, 2019 at 7:51 am

      Hi Rachael,
      Yes, you have to wash your hair the next day if you apply castor oil at night. It is not recommended to leave castor oil in hair for more than 24 hours.

  • Reply
    Mari
    January 28, 2019 at 1:18 am

    Hi, how do you wrap the hair in order to leave the mask for an hour of more? Can you recommend a cap , or should it be in a towel? The mask for regrowth (coconut, castor, and rosemary oil), is that applied on dry or damp hair? Thanks 🙂

    • Reply
      Mamta
      January 28, 2019 at 8:05 am

      Hi Mari,
      You can use a cap to cover your hairs. And, you can apply this mask on dry hairs.

  • Reply
    Rajendran
    December 7, 2019 at 10:06 am

    Hi I have bald patch radius 3 inch top off, from 6 yrs, can i regrow them back, ppl say if it’s more than 2yrs u cannot regrow the lost hair on bald patch

  • Reply
    Lorie Anderson
    January 13, 2020 at 6:10 pm

    I’ve been using castor oil for 3 months now in my hair. The intention was to fill in some spots of my hair that were thinning on the back of my head. From what I can tell, it’s worked but I’m going to give it another month or two to see if it’s really obvious. What else can I use castor oil on? Will it make my eyebrows fuller? Thanks.

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