The Science of Castor oil in Skin Care Products

Castor oil has become a popular ingredient in many skin care products to treat rosacea, but what exactly is castor oil and how does it benefit the skin? In this blog, we’ll explore the components and properties of castor oil that make castor oil an effective ingredient for dry, sensitive oily, aging, rosacea and acne-prone skin. We’ll also overview proper usage and any risks. Read on to learn more about harnessing the power of castor oil in skin care based on your unique Baumann Skin Type.

What is Castor oil?

Castor oil comes from pressing the seeds of the castor plant, whose scientific name is Ricinus communis L. of the Euphorbiaceae family. (3) The castor plant is native to tropical regions like China, India, and Brazil. (3)

Castor oil has been used commercially for various industrial purposes like lubricating airplane engines, manufacturing dyes, detergents, and varnishes. (3) In skin care, castor oil is used to soothe sensitive skin due to its beneficial skin lipids and phenolic antioxidant compounds. (3)

What is castor oil made of?

The main component of castor oil is the triglyceride fatty acid called ricinoleic acid, making up almost 90% of the oil. (2) Ricinoleic acid is unique in that it’s a hydroxylated fatty acid produced when oleic acid is chemically modified. (5)

Other fatty acids found in smaller quantities in castor oil include linoleic acid, oleic acid, linolenic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid. (2) Linoleic and linolenic acids are anti-inflammatory and moisturizing for skin. The oil also contains antioxidants like vitamin E, carotenoids, phospholipids, and beta-sitosterol. (3)

What is Ricinoleic acid?

Ricinoleic acid is a monounsaturated 18-carbon fatty acid, structurally similar to oleic acid with the addition of a hydroxyl group. This shape gives ricinoleic acid the ability to break apart fats. (It’s an emulsifier). (5)

Ricinoleic acid also has pain killing and anti-inflammatory effects. It acts on inflammation similar to capsaicin, the active component in hot chili peppers. However, unlike capsaicin, ricinoleic acid doesn’t cause any initial stinging or burning. (6) With repeated use over several days, ricinoleic acid reduces inflammation and swelling. (7)

Benefits of Castor oil in Skin Care

The ingredients in castor oil offer a number of benefits that make it effective for various skin types and conditions:

Ricinoleic acid has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm irritation and redness. (4, 6, 7)

Ricinoleic acid provides mild pain relief. (4, 6)

Castor oil has antibacterial properties to combat acne-causing bacteria. (8)

The fatty acids help nourish and moisturize the skin barrier. (2)

Vitamin E and other antioxidants protect against free radical damage. (3)

Castor oil helps treat skin conditions like hyperpigmentation. (2)

It can be used to manage blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) when applied in an eye cream. (1)

Here are some of my favorite castor oil products in general:

Side-effects of Castor oil

Castor oil is generally safe to use topically. The EWG (Environmental Working Group) gives castor oil a safety rating of 2, which is a great score. Pregnant women should also avoid consuming castor oil unless advised by a doctor, as it may potentially stimulate labor. (10)

When applying castor oil to the skin, use only a small amount as it can feel greasy in excess. Discontinue use if any irritation develops.

Skin Conditions that Castor Oil Can Treat

Castor Oil for Rosacea

Castor oil, primarily composed of ricinoleic acid, is often considered for treating rosacea due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Ricinoleic acid, an unsaturated omega-9 fatty acid, has been noted for its ability to alleviate inflammation, soothe irritated skin, and reduce facial erythema and redness, making castor oil a popular choice for naturally managing rosacea. The anti-inflammatory effects of ricinoleic acid are crucial for rosacea care, as it can significantly reduce the characteristic flush, facial redness, and inflammation associated with the condition. Castor oil for rosacea has the potential to address the visible signs of the condition, providing a natural and gentle option for those seeking relief from this chronic and often distressing skin condition.

Castor oil for dry skin

The hydrating and quick working fatty acids in castor oil make it an excellent moisturizer for dry skin types. The ricinoleic acid provides a soothing effect for flaky, irritated skin. Castor oil’s thick consistency allows it to form an occlusive barrier on the skin, preventing moisture loss.

Look for castor oil in hydrating serums, creams, oils, and masks to combat dryness. You can also apply a light layer of pure cold-pressed castor oil onto dry areas as an overnight treatment. Focus on dry spots like the hands, heels, elbows, and any cracked skin.

Castor oil for oily skin

Although castor oil has a greasy texture, it can still benefit oily and acne-prone skin when used properly. The antimicrobial activity of castor oil can destroy acne-causing bacteria on the skin. (8) Ricinoleic acid helps reduce inflammation that leads to breakouts.

When acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide cause dryness, using moisturizers with castor oil can boost hydration without clogging pores. Oily skin types should opt for cleansing oils with castor oil to remove makeup and dirt while maintaining moisture.

Here are some of my favorite castor oil products for oily skin:

Castor oil for aging skin

Castor oil contains fatty acids and vitamin E to nourish aging skin and combat dryness, which is common during menopause. The antioxidants in castor oil also protect mature skin against wrinkle-causing free radicals that accumulate with age.

For sunspots and uneven tone, dab castor oil on hyperpigmented areas to fade discoloration thanks to its ability to inhibit melanin production.

Here are some of my favorite anti-aging castor oil products:

Castor oil for acne

Castor oil can be beneficial for acne-prone skin when used in moderation. The antimicrobial properties make castor oil a great addition to acne cleansers. (8) Ricinoleic acid calms the inflammation that leads to breakouts.

When using castor oil for acne, don’t use a pure castor oil product, as the thick texture can clog pores. It can safely be one of many ingredients for acne-prone skin, but the palmitic acid in it means there is a small risk of comedones. Check that your skin tolerates castor oil before applying all over the face.

Here are some of my favorite castor oil products for acne prone skin:

Castor oil for inflammation

One of the main benefits of castor oil is its ability to reduce inflammation. The ricinoleic acid soothes irritation and swelling on contact. Applying castor oil can calm inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Castor oil also eases the pain of sunburns due to the analgesic effect of ricinoleic acid. Castor oil can be put into soothing aloe vera gel for sunburn relief.

Here are some of my favorite castor oil products for inflammation:

Closing thoughts

Castor oil has many benefits for skin thanks to its nourishing fatty acids, antioxidants, and antimicrobial properties. Ricinoleic acid calms inflammation that underlies many skin ailments like acne, eczema, and sun damage. Castor oil provides intense hydration for dry skin while maintaining a balanced moisture level for oily skin prone to breakouts.

When shopping for skin care products, look for castor oil on the ingredients list to target your specific skin needs. With various uses for all skin types, castor oil can enhance skin care routines year-round. Let us know about your experience with castor oil in the comments!

Take the Baumann Skin Type quiz today to find out if castor oil is right for you!

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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