The harsh weather conditions usually have an adverse effect on our bodies. The hair is the most exposed part of our body which can get damaged easily.
Our hair needs a lot of care and nourishment in this world of dirt and pollution. The best solution to give proper nourishment is oiling the hair regularly. The castor oil is found to have many benefits in the growth and nourishment of the hair.
Types Of Castor Oils Used for Hair Care
Castor oil is made from castor seeds that belong to the Ricinus Communis plant family. It is a very commonly found plant all over the country. It has a high density and is rich in fatty acids (ricinoleic acid) which gives hair a shiny and smooth look. There are commonly three types of castor oils that are commonly used for hair care. They are:
Organic Cold-Pressed Castor Oil
This pale yellow color oil is the most commonly used castor oil in curly hair and dry, itchy scalp. The extraction of oil is done directly from the castor seeds without using any heat. The heat is found to degrade all the nutrition that are present in the castor seeds and hence, cold-pressing ensures that no nutrition is destroyed.
Jamaican Black Castor Oil
The Jamaican castor oil is black in color and is highly alkaline. The castor seeds are roasted and then the oil is pressed out of it. The ashes which are obtained after roasting the seeds are mixed with the oil giving it the distinctive black color. It is very useful for healthy scalp and straight hair.
Hydrogenated Castor Oil
This oil is also known as castor wax. It is brittle, odorless, and insoluble in water. Hydrogenated castor oil is made by hydrogenation of the pure form of castor oil with a nickel catalyst. This oil is mainly used in various cosmetic products, varnishes, and polishes.
Benefits of Castor Oil for Hair
Castor oil is becoming the first choice for treating hair loss and for hair regrowth. The growth of hair depends on many factors like the health of the hair and scalp, nutrition supply, etc. Castor oil is made of omega-6 & omega-9 fatty acids, ricinoleic acid, vitamin E, and minerals. All nutrients are very beneficial for hair and have shown to improve the quality and health of the hair. Some beneficial properties of castor oil are:
Hydrates and Moisturizes Hair
Castor oil keeps the moisture and natural oils trapped and sealed in the hair strands. The oil has ricinoleic acid which acts as a natural emollient agent for the hair and improves the blood supply to the scalp. The Omega-3 and Omega-9 fatty acids help in fortifying the hair with moisture. Castor oil when used regularly is found to be effective in boosting the moisture level of the hair and provides protection from microbes.
Has Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties
A neglected scalp leads to dryness and fungus formation. This makes the scalp flaky and full of dandruff. So, it is very important to maintain the hygiene of the scalp and keep it nourished. Castor oil has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial which helps in arresting bacterial and fungal growth. This helps to free the scalp from the infections.
Rich in Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a very important ingredient that is required for hair growth. Castor oil is a full source of Vitamin E. It helps in making the hair shiny and strong. It also enhances the hair growth by protecting it from the free radicals which erode the hair quality. It allows the normal growth of hair by protein synthesis and prevents hair loss.
Balances the pH Levels of the Scalp
The castor oil is very high in density and hence, it penetrates the scalp easily. The fatty acids present in the oil helps in maintaining the pH balance of the scalp. This improves the blood supply to the scalp which in return prevents dandruff and flaky skin. The proper pH level helps in maintaining healthy skin of the scalp.
Helps in Boosting Health of Hair Follicle
The scalp forms the base of the hair follicle. The nourishment of the scalp has a direct effect on the hair follicle health. If the scalp is not hydrated and nourished properly it leads to the formation of dead hair follicles and hinders the growth of hair.
Using castor oil thrice a week for massaging the hair can lead to a healthy scalp. Warming the oil and then doing the massage is found to have more benefits.
Acts as a Natural Conditioner
The castor oil has emollient properties which makes it a natural conditioner and hair-softener. The oil contains oleic and linoleic acids which restore the damaged hair to normalcy. The hair is less prone to have split-ends. The regular application repairs brittle hair and thus, improves the texture of the hair.
How To Use Castor Oil to Prevent Hair Loss
Castor oil is found very effective in preventing hair loss. Following simple steps of castor oil application can prevent hair loss. Some castor oil is taken in the palm and applied all over the hair from tips to the roots.
- Gentle massaging should be done for 10-15 minutes.
- The oil should be left in the hair for 15-20 minutes or overnight as per the user’s choice.
- The washing of the hair requires some efforts as the castor oil is sticky and thick in density.
- The shampoo should be used multiple times to ensure the removal of the oil completely.
- A conditioner can be used after washing the hair.
- The hair should be towel-dried and no heating tool should be used for some time
How To Use Castor Oil for Hair Regrowth
Castor Oil has amazing properties that help in regrowing hair. But, the smell and the density of the oil is not very appealing. So, it can be mixed with some other oils which are beneficial for hair which will also help in suppressing the smell.
The combination of four oils works best in hair regrowth.
- 2 tbsp sweet almond oil
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp extra virgin coconut oil
- 1 tbsp castor oil
All these four oils are mixed together and massage is done on the scalp and hair.
For quicker penetration of the oil in the scalp, it can be warmed and applied.
It should be kept for about an hour and then washed off with a shampoo.
Simple Ways to Use Castor Oil
It is very important to use castor oil properly as improper usage of the oil may lead to hair felting. Hair felting is a unique disorder in which there is the tangling of hair into a hard mass. This mass is impossible to detangle. One needs to chop off the tangled hair.
So, it is very important to use it in a proper way and alternate the use with other oils that are healthy for the hair.
Using the castor oil properly is very important to avoid damage to the hair. There are few basic steps to be followed which provide nourishment to the health and results in healthy growth of hair.
Protect Clothes and Surrounding Area
The castor oil is very thick and sticky. It may spoil the clothes and the surrounding area. So, it is advisable to use paper towels to cover the surrounding area and clothes to avoid the mess.
Dampen the Hair
For better absorption, it is advisable to dampen the hair and then apply the oil. Before applying the oil, the hair should be detangled by combing the hair.
Heat the Oil
A couple of tablespoons of oil should be heated and then applied to the scalp. This helps in drawing out the essential ingredients of the oil and makes it easy to apply. The oil should be heated indirectly by keeping the oil jar in a vessel filled with very hot water.
Mix Castor Oil with Any Other Oil
It is advisable to use mix castor oil with any other oil like coconut, almond, jojoba, etc. This helps in easier application of the oil to the hair. The strong smell of the castor oil can be decreased by adding rosemary oil, tea tree oil or peppermint oil.
Application of the Oil
Once the oil is warm, it should be taken on the tips of the fingers and gentle massaging should be done on the scalp for three to five minutes.
It should be spread evenly to roots and the scalp using small circular motions. It may be also applied using an eyedropper. Few drops should be taken in the dropper and applied to various areas.
Let it Stay
It is advisable to let the oil stay in the hair for at least half an hour. One can keep it overnight also. But, precautions should be taken to avoid staining the pillow cover by wearing a shower cap or towel.
How Often Can it be Used?
The usage of castor oil application depends on the hair type and the reason for application.
For preventing hair loss, it is advisable to use castor oil 2-3 times a week for about four weeks.
To increase the shine of the hair, use a pea-sized quantity of oil once a week.
To manage split-ends, hair should be massaged 2-3 times a week.
Ways to Remove Oil from Hair
Castor oil is very thick and sticky and hence it requires some efforts to remove it from the hair. There are two ways in which the oil can be removed easily.
The person should first dampen their hair with warm water which opens the pore of the scalp. After this, shampoo should be applied generously to form a lather and then rinse with warm water. The shampoo should be used twice to remove the oil completely from the hair.
A shampoo that is specifically available for oily hair type is found to be more effective. A normal conditioner can be used after washing the hair which helps in maintaining the goodness of oil.
Another way is to use an egg. An egg is whisked until it is smooth and then applied to the scalp. This helps in breaking the oil particles and then it should be washed using a shampoo. This makes oil removal easier.
Castor Oil Hair Masks
The hair mask made by mixing castor oil and some basic ingredients which are good for hair is found to be very effective in growing healthy hair. Some of the most commonly used hair mask are:
Castor Oil & Aloe Vera
This mask provides nourishment to the scalp and makes it healthy. When applied overnight, it gives shiny and silky hair.
Ingredients: Castor oil and Aloevera gel
Procedure
- Equal quantity of castor oil and aloevera gel are mixed together and are applied evenly to the scalp.
- The hair should be wrapped with a hot towel and should be left overnight.
- Use shampoo and lukewarm water to wash the hair.
Castor Oil & Coconut Oil
This mask is beneficial for thin hair. It gives volume to the hair.
Ingredients: Castor oil and Coconut oil
Procedure
- The equal quantity of both the oils is mixed and applied to the hair.
- It should be kept for an hour and then washed.
Castor Oil, Coconut Oil, & Fenugreek Seeds
This mask reduces hair fall and gives a glow to the hair.
Ingredients: 1 tbsp fenugreek seeds, 5 tbsp of coconut oil and 5 tbsp of castor oil
Procedure
- A mixture of fenugreek seeds, castor oil & coconut oil is heated on low heat.
- It should be heated until there is the formation of a black residue.
- Apply the mixture to the hair after cooling it.
- Care should be taken to not to heat it for long.
- Apply it twice a week.
Castor Oil & Mustard Oil
The mask is found to be very effective in revitalizing the scalp and giving shine to the hair.
Ingredients: 3 tbsp of castor oil and 1 tbsp of mustard oil
Procedure
- Castor oil and mustard oil are mixed together and then applied to the scalp.
- Do hair massage for 10 minutes so that oil penetrates properly in the scalp.
- Wash hair after an hour.
Castor Oil, Egg, & Honey
This mask is beneficial for treating the split ends and making hair shiny. The eggs have nourishing properties and the castor oil helps in strengthening the hair.
Ingredients: 1 medium-size egg, 2 tbsp of castor oil and 1 tbsp of honey
Procedure
- Egg, castor oil, and honey are mixed and applied in sections at every portion of the hair.
- It should be applied to all the damaged areas.
- Keep it for an hour and then wash it with cold or lukewarm water.
6. Castor Oil & Almond Oil
This mask repairs the damaged hair and provides nourishment to the dry scalp.
Ingredients
5tbsp of castor oil
2 tbsp of almond oil
Procedure
Castor oil and almond oil are mixed together and applied to the hair.
Massage and leave it overnight.
Wash the hair with shampoo and then apply any conditioner.
7. Castor Oil, Olive Oil, & Mustard Oil
The mustard has nourishing properties and olive oil give strength tom the hair.
Ingredients
2 tbsp of castor oil
1 tbsp of mustard oil
1 tbsp of olive oil
Procedure
A mixture of castor oil, mustard oil, and olive oil is applied to the full length of the hair and the scalp.
Leave the mask for an hour and then wash with lukewarm water.
8. Castor Oil & Glycerin
Glycerin helps in regaining the moisture of the hair and the scalp.
Ingredients
2-3 tbsp of castor oil
4 drops of glycerin
Procedure
Castor oil and glycerin are mixed together and applied to the scalp.
Leave it for an hour and wash with shampoo and lukewarm water.
9. Castor Oil & Water
Ingredient
4 tbsp of castor oil
8 tbsp of water
Procedure
This is a very easy hair mask made of castor oil and water.
It is applied to the hair and left for 2 hours.
Then, wash it with shampoo.
10. Castor Oil, Banana, & Honey
This mask is a natural conditioner for the hair which softens and gives shine to the hair. It can be used before every hair wash.
Ingredients
1 medium-size ripe banana
1 tsp of honey
1 tsp of castor oil
Procedure
The smooth paste of mashed banana and honey is made.
After adding 1 teaspoon of castor oil, it is blended in a mixer for 20-30 seconds.
It is applied to the hair especially on the strands and left for 30 mins.
It is then washed with lukewarm water.
11. Castor Oil & Almond
Ingredients
10 almonds
3 tbsp of castor oil
Procedure
Fine powder of almonds is made in a blender and mixed with castor oil.
Apply it to every part of the hair and the scalp especially the hair roots.
The massage ensures proper blood supply to the scalp and removes the dead, flaky skin.
It should be left for 10-15 minutes and then washed off.
It can be used once every week for a healthy scalp.
12. Castor Oil, Lemon Juice, & Egg
This mask increases the volume of the hair and gives it strength.
Ingredients
1 medium-size egg
2 tbsp of castor oil
½ lemon
Procedure
Beat a medium-sized egg till it becomes fluffy.
Add 2 tablespoons of castor oil to make a smooth paste.
Add the juice of half a lemon and stir it again.
Apply it on the hair and cover it with a shower cap to seal the nutrients.
Wash hair using a shampoo after half an hour.
13. Castor Oil & Onion Juice
Onion is rich in fatty acids and many other nutrients which are essential for hair growth. The high sulfur content in the onion improves the blood circulation to the scalp and reduce the scalp inflammation.
Ingredients
2 tbsp of onion juice
2 tbsp of castor oil
Procedure
Both onion juice and castor oil are blended together and massaged gently on the hair.
It is left for 2 hours and then rinsed with shampoo and lukewarm water.
14. Castor Oil & Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil rejuvenated the hair follicle which in turn enhances hair growth.
Ingredients
100 ml of castor oil
2-3 drops of peppermint oil
Procedure
Castor oil is mixed with 2-3 drops of peppermint oil and shaken properly.
The mixture is applied directly to the whole scalp.
It is allowed to stay for at least 2 hours and then washed.
For better results, it can be used twice a week for about 2 months.
15. Castor Oil, Olive Oil, & Avocado Oil
The majority of the population who suffer from hair loss have some vitamin deficiency. Avocado is rich in Vitamin B & E that helps in strengthening the hair and protecting it from getting damaged. Vitamin E repairs the damaged scalp and vitamin B accelerates hair growth.
Ingredients
1 tbsp of castor oil
1 tbsp of olive oil
1 tbsp of avocado oil
Procedure
Castor oil, olive oil, and avocado oil are mixed together and applied gently on the scalp.
Wash it after 2 hours.
It can be applied once a week for strong and healthy hair.
16. Castor Oil, Coconut Oil, & Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil stimulates hair growth by increasing the blood circulation to the scalp.
Ingredients
2 tsp of castor oil
2 tsp of coconut oil
2-3 drops of rosemary oil
Procedure
Castor oil and coconut oil are mixed with 2-3 drops of rosemary oil. The mixture is heated and then gently massaged on the scalp for 5-10 minutes.
The hot oil allows the nutrients to penetrate the hair follicles. Wash hair after 15 minutes.
17. Castor Oil, Olive Oil & Vitamin E
Vitamin E acts as anti-oxidant and helps in repairing the damaged hair. It prevents tissue corrosion and repairs the ruptured hair follicles.
Ingredients
1 tbsp of warm castor oil
1 tbsp of warm olive oil
2 Vitamin E capsule
Procedure
Warm castor oil and warm olive oil is blended with 2 Vitamin E capsules.
It is applied gently on the scalp using a circular motion.
The hair is washed after half an hour.
18. Castor Oil, Tea Tree Oil, & Coconut Oil
Tea tree oil is found to be effective in soothing an itchy scalp and curing psoriasis, head lice, and dandruff.
Ingredients
2 tbsp of Jamaican Black castor oil
2 tbsp of coconut oil
1 tsp of tea tree oil
Procedure
Jamaican Black castor oil and coconut oil are mixed with tea tree oil.
This mixture is applied to the hair and scalp and washed off after half an hour.
19. Castor Oil & Jojoba Oil
Jojoba has strong anti-bacterial properties that promote hair growth. 3 tablespoons of castor oil are mixed with 1 tablespoon of jojoba oil and applied directly to the scalp. Massage for 5-20 minutes and then wash the hair after one hour. Use it 2-3 times a week for healthier hair.
20. Castor Oil & Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin that helps in hair growth. It increases the blood supply from roots to the follicle and also supplies essential nutrients.
Ingredients
4-6 cayenne peppers
60 ml of castor oil
Procedure
Cayenne peppers are cut into small pieces and added to castor oil.
It is then stored in a dark-colored glass bottle for 2-3 weeks.
Care should be taken to store it in a dark place as sunlight may destroy the carotenoids which is important for hair growth.
Stir the mixture once a week.
Strain the mix after 3 weeks and apply the oil on the scalp.
Leave it for an hour before washing.
It can be used twice a week to give volume to the hair.
21. Castor Oil & Garlic
Garlic has anti-bacterial properties that remove the toxins and curbs the fungal growth in the scalp. It contains sulfur which is used extensively in medicines for hair regrowth.
Ingredients
2 cloves of garlic
2-3 tbsp of castor oil
Procedure
Cloves of Garlic are crushed and mixed with castor oil.
This mix is marinated for 3-4 days and then the oil is applied.
It is washed after 2-3 hours with good shampoo and warm water.
22. Castor Oil & Monistat
Monistat contains miconazole nitrate which helps in regulating the flora of the scalp.
Ingredients
A tube of Monistat
2 tbsp of castor oil
An applicator bottle
Procedure
An entire tube of Monistat is mixed with 2 tablespoons of castor oil and is filled in an applicator bottle.
The mixture is applied to the hair and scalp and is washed off after half an hour.
For the best results, it should be used once a week for 2 months.
23. Castor Oil & Shea Butter
Shea butter soothes the itchy scalp and prevents dandruff formation as it has anti-inflammatory properties. Unrefined shea butter is the choice as it has no chemicals.
Ingredients
1 tbsp of castor oil
1 tbsp of shea butter
Procedure
Castor oil and shea butter is mixed and applied on the scalp.
It is washed off after an hour.
If a flowable consistency of the mixture is required then the shea butter should be melted and then mixed with castor oil.
Use it once a week to get relief from dandruff.
24. Castor Oil & Ginger
The anti-inflammatory property of ginger gives relief from the itchy and dry scalp. Ginger oil mixed with castor oil increases the blood supply to the scalp.
Ingredients
2 tbsp of castor oil
1 tsp of ginger juice
Procedure
2 tablespoons of castor oil are mixed with 1 teaspoon of ginger juice and are applied on the scalp
It should be applied especially on the bald spot for speedy hair growth.
The oil is left for 30 minutes in the hair and then washed off.
Conclusion
Castor oil has been found to have numerous benefits in hair growth. But, it is very important to use it carefully and properly to avoid damage to the hair. The castor oil is also found to be beneficial for skin and the overall health of humans. To get long and healthy hair free of dandruff, one should use castor oil regularly in the proper way.
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I have used castor oil hair mask it really worked miracles for me. Great work i would definitely try other remedies aswell.
Thanks to my father who shared with me on the topic of this website, this web site is genuinely remarkable.
Do the recipes you have us have side effects