Is Castor Oil Good For Eyelashes? Explained

Known for its moisturizing and laxative properties, castor oil is very versatile. But is castor oil good for eyelashes? Read on to find out.

Is Castor Oil Good For Eyelashes

Castor oil is good for eyelashes. It keeps the lashes hydrated and can help reduce lash breakage which may lead to healthier lash growth. Castor oil can make lashes appear fuller and more lustrous.

What Is Castor Oil?

For centuries, castor oil is a type of vegetable oil that comes from the bean of the castor tree. 

It is comprised of proteins, vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants, making it a hugely nourishing oil. For this reason, it is commonly used in beauty products.

Benefits of Castor Oil

A multipurpose oil, castor oil has lots of benefits and can be used in different ways such as:

Laxative

Castor oil is often used as a remedy for constipation or to clear out the bowels prior to a medical procedure.

Moisturizer

Abundant in ricinoleic acid, castor oil is a good alternative to store-bought moisturizers.

Wound Healing

An application of castor oil can promote the wound healing process. It allows for a moist environment preventing wounds and sores from drying out.

Denture Cleaning

Castor oil is an effective way to keep dentures clean as it can help kill any bacteria.

This helps denture wearers to avoid the mouth condition denture stomatitis which can be very unpleasant.

Acne

Castor oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties which makes it a good method of tackling acne.

3 Reasons Castor Oil Is Good For Eyelashes

3 Reasons Castor Oil Is Good For Eyelashes

Brimming with nutrients, castor oil has benefits specifically for lashes. These include:

Castor Oil Moisturizes Lashes

Castor oil is a good source of moisture for eyelashes. Not only that, but it also coats the lash hairs, sealing in hydration. 

Keeping lashes hydrated like this can help prevent lash breakage. This coating can make lashes appear fuller.

Prevents Lash Loss

Ricinoleic acid found in castor oil may help to combat the protein which contributes to hair loss. Retention of lashes will give lashes a fuller, more lustrous appearance.

Protects Lashes

Castor oil gives eyelashes a layer of protection. It contains vitamin E which helps protect lashes against damaging external elements.

Can Castor Oil Help Grow Eyelashes?

There is currently no conclusive evidence to say that castor oil helps eyelashes grow.

However, its capacity to protect lashes, prevent lash loss, and hydrate lashes, results in strong, healthy lashes. And if lashes are healthy then you can expect healthy lash growth.

How To Use Castor Oil For Eyelashes

How To Use Castor Oil For Eyelashes

It is easy to apply castor oil to your eyelashes to reap the rewards it can bring.

You will need

  • Clean spoolie or cotton swab
  • Castor oil

Method

  1. Remove any residual makeup (avoid an oil-based remover as this could block the castor oil).
  2. Make sure your hands are clean.
  3. Dip the spoolie or cotton swab into the castor oil.
  4. Shake off any excess oil or dab it with a tissue.
  5. Start at the base of your lashes and apply the castor oil all the way to the tips.
  6. After application, try to sleep on your back to avoid smearing oil on your pillowcase.
  7. In the morning, gently remove the castor oil using water.

Risks And Warnings Of Using Castor Oil

Generally, castor oil is a safe oil to use. However, allergic reactions are possible. It is a good idea to carry out a patch test prior to applying the oil to your lashes.

 Apply some castor oil to a small patch of skin on your forearm and leave it for 24 hours. If no reaction occurs, it should be safe to proceed.

If castor oil gets into your eyes as you apply it to your lashes, it can cause some irritation, but nothing more serious. 

In this event, simply flush it out with water. If you have further concerns, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a medical professional.

When choosing a castor oil, try to go for one which has been certified organic, is cold-pressed, and hexane-free.

Castor oil is a natural budget-friendly oil with lots of benefits for eyelashes. With a little time and patience, you can enjoy healthy, beautiful lashes courtesy of a little castor oil.