What are the benefits of using castor oil for hair?
Summary
- How can castor oil cause hair to grow?
- What are the side effects of using castor oil for hair?
- How can I apply castor oil?
- What about a hot oil treatment?
- Which type of castor oil is best?
- Conclusion
How can castor oil cause hair to grow?
Castor oil is a vegetable oil derived from the castor bean, also known as ricinus communis. This plant originates in Northeast Tropical Africa, but its medicinal and cosmetic benefits have been identified and used primarily in India and the West Indies.
What are the key benefits of this oil?
This oil is comprised of long chain fatty acids. Fatty acids provide nutrients and influence the signalling for hair growth. In addition, castor oil can increase the shine or gloss of hair, and has both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The oil can coat the shaft to improve flexibility, subsequently preventing damage and hair grows stronger. The chemical composition of castor oil is 90% ricinoleic acid. This fatty acid indirectly promotes hair growth and improves hair health by causing vasodilation, or increased blood flow, in the scalp.
The increase in blood flow leads to a greater amount of oxygen and nutrients delivered to the hair follicle, leading to improved hair growth. The growth can typically be seen within three months of applying castor oil regularly to the hair and scalp.
What are the side effects of using castor oil for hair?
It is advised to perform patch testing with castor oil on a small portion of skin before applying it to the whole scalp. Some individuals can experience irritation from using this oil, especially if they suffer from dandruff. In rare instances, a condition called hair felting can occur. This leads to irreversible twisting and tangling of the hair. The only solution is to cut off all hair.
Applying too much castor oil can be damaging to hair. It is a thick substance and can be difficult to wash out. In addition, excess castor oil can block pores and shrink the follicle’s natural oil glands. There are methods to properly apply castor oil to the scalp however.
How can I apply castor oil for hair?
The frequency and ideal method of application for castor oil depends on the thickness and type of hair. In every case, it is always best to wet the hair before application so the oil will absorb better.
A good rule of thumb for frequency is to limit usage to once per week or less. If you are wanting to add castor oil to your haircare routine, here are the suggested techniques for each hair type:
Straight hair
For this hair type, castor oil might weigh the hair down and should not be applied directly to the scalp. It is best to use it on the last 2-3 inches of strands before shampooing. It can be left on for ten minutes up to several hours.
Medium/thick straight or wavy hair
As this hair type is thicker, the castor oil can be applied to the entire head before shampooing. To increase the effects, heat can be applied to stimulate deeper penetration into the hair cuticle.
Loose curls
Drops of castor oil can actually be added to your favourite conditioner and left on the ends of strands for a few minutes after shampooing.
Tight Curls
This type of hair can withstand the weight of a thicker moisturizer such as castor oil. It can be used before shampooing, added to conditioner, or as a hot oil treatment.
What about a hot oil treatment?
Below are the steps for a hot castor oil treatment:
- Warm the castor oil in a microwave or on the stove
- Separate hair into sections
- Apply the castor oil to the scalp using a brush then massage the scalp
- Put a shower cap on, making sure to cover all of the hair and leave on for at least 2 hours
- Wash the oil out using a shampoo and then conditioner
To avoid having to use multiple applications to remove the oil, you should use a clarifying shampoo and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with water.
Additionally, castor oil can be diluted by using one part castor oil and one part of another plant-derived carrier oil such as coconut, avocado, sweet almond, or argan.
Which type of castor oil is best?
Most experts recommend cold-pressed castor oil. This version is clear or pale yellow in colour and can be used on the entire head, including hair strands. If you used black castor oil, it is suggested to apply it only to the scalp and not the hair cuticle.
Products that include more benefits than just castor oil
Castor oil can only do so much to promote healthy hair growth. For anyone seeking to prevent hair loss or thinning, it is best to use a holistic treatment that integrates the benefits of a variety of natural ingredients.
Elithair offers hair care products that are designed to provide all the benefits of castor oil, and more. Adding these to your haircare routine will stimulate growth while also adding strength and shine. For more hair care products by Elithair, check out our shop.
Conclusion
Although there is still insufficient scientific evidence about the benefits of castor oil, it has demonstrated an ability to promote hair growth for individuals faced with hair loss or thinning. This oil is made of fatty acids that supply vital nutrients and increase blood flow to the hair follicle.
If you are wanting to add castor oil to your hair care routine, be sure to apply it according to your hair type and be careful not to use it in excess. It can be combined with a secondary oil for easier application and removal.
Do you have any questions or are you suffering from hair loss issues? Then feel free to to contact our friendly team who will answer all your queries. Furthermore, they can also offer a free and non-binding hair analysis.
