6 Amazing Beauty Benefits Of Castor Oil

Castor oil, extracted from castor seeds, is a pale-yellow liquid that has a high content of antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamin E. This thick oil with a rich composition is highly beneficial to your hair and skin.

Castor oil also contains high amounts of ricinoleic acid, which is readily absorbed by the skin. It benefits the skin flora and contributes to skin moisturization, thus helping manage skin flakiness and roughness. Additionally, it improves the skin barrier and prevents moisture loss.

Also, castor oil helps in conditioning and lubricating your hair, making it smoother and shinier. It has antibacterial and medicinal properties that are useful in treating various skin disorders.

Owing to its industrial, medicinal, and pharmaceutical benefits, castor oil has various applications. You can find various castor oil-based products on the market, including lubricants, biodiesel fuel, inks, nylon, waxes, and skin care products.

# Prevents wrinkles

Wrinkles are a common sign of skin aging – it forms due to the reduced production of elastin and collagen skin proteins.

Castor oil, due to its high fatty acid content, can easily penetrate the skin and reach the inner layers, hydrating the skin from within. Moreover, it helps boost collagen and elastin production, making the skin tighter and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

- Apply castor oil to your skin at bedtime using a cotton ball.
- Mix almond oil and castor oil in equal parts. Rub the oil between your palms, and apply it to the wrinkle-prone areas, such as around the eyes, forehead, and mouth. Wash it off after 10–15 minutes. Repeat this remedy weekly to prevent premature aging.

# Prevents acne

Acne, pimples, blackheads, bumps, and whiteheads can commonly develop on your face and back. These skin problems are generally caused by clogged skin pores that result from the accumulation of dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria.

Castor oil acts as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent that can curb the growth of bacteria as well as manage and prevent acne.

- Use a mild cleanser to wash your face. Add a few drops of castor oil in lukewarm water and soak a clean washcloth in it. Gently rub the soaked cloth on your face in small, circular motions before bedtime. Wash your face in the morning.
- Use castor oil as a spot treatment for acne and associated problems.
- Apply castor oil as a moisturizer every day.

# Nourishes the cuticle

Cuticle care is generally forgotten about and is rarely a part of any skin care regimen. The cuticles are easily visible and often prone to peeling and loose skin. This not only affects the appearance of your fingers but also can become a source of problems.

Castor oil can provide cuticle nourishment, thus strengthening and softening them. Moreover, the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil prevent infections that may affect pulled cuticles.

- Apply castor oil over your nails and cuticles after a pedicure or manicure.
- Use castor oil before bedtime, giving the oil time to penetrate and nourish the skin.
- Carry castor oil in a small bottle and use it for moisturization whenever needed.

# Prevents dandruff and other scalp infections

Castor oil is a potent antibacterial and antifungal agent that can help treat scalp infections and dandruff. Moreover, it contains anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties that are helpful in soothing the scalp and managing irritation and rashes.

- Use castor oil to massage your scalp as part of your hair care regimen.
- Make a hair mask using castor oil. Simply mix 2 tsp of castor oil with 1 tsp of lemon juice. Apply the mix to your scalp, and wash it off after 30 minutes.

# Treats corns, dry, and cracked heels

Owing to its potent moisturizing properties, castor oil can hydrate and soften the dry, rough skin of your feet. This aids in the treatment of corns, calluses, and cracked heels. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil help lower inflammation and pain.

- Pre-soak your feet in warm water for 10 minutes to soften the skin.
- Use a pumice stone to exfoliate your feet. Rinse your feet with water and pat dry.
- Use a cotton ball to apply castor oil to the affected area and place a cotton pad over it. Secure it with tape and remove it after a few hours.
- Repeat this remedy daily.

# Soothes dry skin

Castor oil is rich in fatty acids that can improve the skin barrier and lock in skin moisture. This makes castor oil a potent humectant, which prevents water loss and keeps the skin hydrated for longer.

In addition, castor oil helps nourish and soothe your skin, and its ricinoleic acid content helps reduce inflammation.

- Apply castor oil every day at bedtime to hydrate your skin.
- Mix castor oil with your moisturizer and use it up to two times a day.
- Mix 2 drops of castor oil and 6 drops of sesame oil, and use the oil blend to massage the affected areas. Following this, place a cloth soaked in warm water on the skin for over a minute. Clean the skin using a cotton ball.