How to Use Castor Oil on Your Face and Hair
Castor oil has been a beauty staple for generations, and it's easy to see why. It's rich, glossy and wonderfully versatile. It is also much thicker than most oils, so knowing how to use it makes all the difference. Here's a simple guide.
What is castor oil?
Castor oil is pressed from the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis). Its main fatty acid, ricinoleic acid, gives it that famously thick, cushiony texture. Our Organic Castor Oil is cold-pressed at around 20°C and hexane-free, so you get a single, pure ingredient with nothing added.
How to use castor oil on your face
Because it is so thick, castor oil works best on the face when you use very little or blend it with a lighter oil.
- Cleanse first. Start with clean skin. Our Janie Face Cleansing Oil already contains castor oil and lifts makeup and sunscreen, then a damp KC Cloth wipes everything away.
- Mix a drop or two. Add 1–2 drops of castor oil to a few drops of a lighter oil such as Jojoba or Rosehip.
- Press in while skin is damp. Mist with Rose Water first, then press the oil blend gently over your face and neck.
- Use it at night. The rich texture suits an evening routine best.
How to use castor oil on your hair and scalp
- Dry ends: Warm 2–3 drops between your palms and smooth over the ends for a glossy-looking finish.
- Pre-wash treatment: Mix castor oil 50/50 with a lighter oil, massage into the scalp and lengths, leave for 30 minutes, then shampoo as usual. You may need to shampoo twice.
- Brows and lashes: Use a clean spoolie to apply the smallest amount to brows and along the lash line, keeping it out of your eyes.
Want a ready-made blend? RESET Hair Oil combines castor oil with jojoba, argan, sweet almond, coconut, rosemary and lavender oils.
Castor oil for cuticles and dry skin
Massage a single drop into each cuticle before bed, or smooth a little over dry elbows, knees and heels. It's also a handy step in a moisturising routine.
Can I use castor oil on my baby or kids?
Many families use castor oil for little ones, which is why we created a dedicated Babies, Tots & Kids Castor Oil in an easy pump bottle. As with any new product, check with your clinic sister or doctor first if you're unsure.
Tips before you start
- Patch test. Apply a little to your inner arm and wait 24 hours before using it more widely.
- Less is more. Start with one or two drops. Too much simply feels sticky.
- Keep it out of your eyes and stop using it if you notice any irritation.
- Store it well. Keep the bottle closed, in a cool place away from sunlight.
The bottom line
Castor oil is one of the simplest, most versatile oils you can own. Used in small amounts and blended where needed, it can become a favourite step for your face, hair, brows and cuticles.
