Castor Oil

Castor oil is a clear yellow oil with a thick consistency and neutral scent obtained by cold pressing the seeds of the castor plant. This pure oil contains several skin and hair-boosting properties, has many uses in cosmetics and provides excellent results in a wide range of homemade products.

This oil is often used alongside thinner carrier oils for increased slip on the skin. Try blending it with sweet almond oil, jojoba oil or apricot kernel oil to balance castor oil’s natural thickness. This oil is also very stable and takes a long time to oxidise.

Castor oil is an ideal ingredient to incorporate into moisturisers and cleansing products and is particularly suitable for dry or damaged skin. As an emollient, castor oil softens and hydrates the skin, while its semi emulsifying qualities enable it to bind oil and water together and drag dirt and grease towards itself. Use it in oils, lotions, or gels — this versatile oil is a store cupboard essential that can do it all.

Cautions/Contraindications:

Avoid using castor oil during pregnancy as it may potentially cause false contractions.

• Use 1% to 100%.
• Castor oil is oil-soluble and should not be used in water-only products. However, you may use small amounts in water-based gels, where the oil is held in suspension.
• When making creams and lotions, castor oil is heat tolerant and can be used in the fat stage (stage 1).

For boosting shine and glossiness in dull, dry, or tired skin, blend castor oil with drier oils that enhance the skin in the same way. Camelina, avocado, moringa and borage oils are all suitable.

Castor Oil Uses for Skin:

• Hydrates, softens and soothes the skin.
• Gives the skin and lips a healthy shine.
• Boosts the suppleness and flexibility of skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Nourishes and protects dry or damaged skin.
• High in skin-boosting nutrients such as vitamin E and omega-6.
• Slow to absorb into the skin, providing time to work for different muscle groups when used as a massage oil. When making your massage oil blends or creams, use up to 15%.

• Castor oil makes an excellent cleanser and is easy to wipe off, leaving no residue and increased softness.
• It is popular for use in soap-making as it helps to stabilise the lather when it’s been saponified.
• Gentle enough for use on babies and makes a fantastic nappy rash balm, simultaneously cleansing and protecting the skin.
• It can be incorporated into many cosmetic products, from creams and lotions to serums, balms, and gels.

Castor Oil Uses for Hair:

• Castor oil locks moisture into the hair shaft for a soft and healthy feel.
• It provides strength and thickness for healthy locks.
• It can be used as a scalp treatment to soothe dry skin.
• Use it in conditioners for remarkable softness and shine.
• Suitable for dry or damaged hair.
• It also thickens brow and lash hair.

Discover how versatile and nourishing castor oil is by incorporating it into your favourite skin and hair care recipes. Discover some of our favourite ways to use it below:

• Luxury Bath & Shower Oil
• Glossy Hair Oil
• Everyday Cleanser

Here is a link to all non-batch-specific documents for this product: Link to Technical Documents

If you have any questions about the documents or need the Certificate of Analysis (COA) for a product that you have received, then please request it here.