Thinking of using castor oil for skin? Here’s why that might be a terrible idea

Castor oil has been a part of the Egyptian beauty arsenal for centuries, but it is only in the last few years that this elixir has gained the attention it deserves! From using castor oil for skin to being used as a powerful laxative for pregnant women – there’s so much and more that this yellow-tinted ‘miracle oil’ can do.

Over the years, castor oil has garnered the spotlight for its science-backed benefits in skincare, but here’s the big question: does it work for all skin types? Before we find that out, let’s go through its array of benefits.

Benefits of castor oil

1. Restores moisture

Castor oil is a natural humectant, which means it can draw moisture from the air into the skin, keeping the skin hydrated. It retains or restores moisture by preventing water loss through the outer layer of the skin, says a study published in the journal, Pharmacognosy Research.

Due to its high viscosity, castor oil forms a thick, protective layer on the skin upon application and locks in moisture, so that it penetrates into the deepest layers of your skin instead of letting it escape. That means soft and supple skin is no longer hard to achieve!

2. Fights acne

Many people apply castor oil on their faces. Castor oil boasts anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties, which means it works well to fight acne, blackheads, and pus-filled pimples.

3. Battles skin ageing

It is rich in fatty acids, so apply a generous layer of castor oil on your skin, and prevent fine lines and wrinkles!

Aren’t we all impressed by the versatility of castor oil? But before you decide to make it a part of your beauty routine, remember this. There can never be a one-size-fits-all approach to skincare, which is why if it worked for your friend, it is not necessary that it will have the same impact on you.

Castor oil isn’t suited for everyone

But, beware as castor oil can lead to skin irritations as well. “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,” dermatologist Dr Sushant Shetty tells Health Shots.

Moreover, the same thickness and fat content in castor oil that works positively for some might spell doom for others.

“Castor oil is quite thick, and thus, it can clog your pores,” adds Dr Shetty. Needless to say, castor oil can lead to an acne outbreak, or for some, make it worse than before. In some cases, the oily layer can attract sweat and grime, and you know that’s not good news!

Dr Shetty has a solution: dilute castor oil with a few drops of almond oil, or wash off the layer of oil after a few hours to prevent clogging of pores.