While some people are using lotions and creams to improve their skin, others are finding skin-benefitting solutions in castor oil.
A vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the castor oil plant Ricinus communis, castor oil is produced by cold-pressing castor seeds followed by the application of heat, explains health and wellness publication Healthline. “It’s not considered an edible oil and makes up only a fraction of the world’s vegetable oil production.”
Although, there are potential benefits of castor oil when used for the skin.
It restores moisture
Castor oil has the natural ability to draw moisture from the air into the skin, keeping the skin hydrated, explains health-focused publication Health Shots.
It fights acne
“Castor oil boasts anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, which means it works well to fight acne, blackheads, and pus-filled pimples,” shares Health Shots.
It soothes sunburns
Healthline shares that the anti-inflammatory properties in castor oil may ease the pain associated with sunburn and reduce peeling.
It helps prevent wrinkles
“Castor oil contains antioxidants that fight free radicals in your body,” explains Healthline. “Free radicals are responsible for accelerating the ageing process, making wrinkles appear sooner.”
It reduces puffiness
The publication mentioned above also notes that the anti-inflammatory properties lend a helping hand in reducing puffiness and swelling, adding, “It could reduce the size of inflamed pimples or eye bags as well.”
Although castor oil is allowed in beauty products, there is not enough research on the safety of using it directly on the skin, including the face, says Healthline. Its thick consistency will allow you to mix it with a carrier oil (for example, coconut oil, almond oil or olive oil) before putting it on the face.
It is also important to note that castor oil may not be for everyone. Dermatologist Dr Sushant Shetty tells Health Shots, “Some people can report skin irritation due to the use of castor oil, especially if one suffers from an existing skin condition like dermatitis or sensitive skin.”
