Curious about castor oil? Jamaican castor oil appears in many of our favorite beauty formulas, and is an incredibly versatile ingredient. Rather than being limited to the skin or hair care category, it frequently appears in products for both, showing up in self care staples such as soap, sun care, creams, growth serums, makeup, and more.
So with this in mind, let’s discuss what makes it such an amazing additive and how it can be used in your daily routine for best results. Here’s what you need to know:
What is Jamaican castor oil and where does it come from?
Although it has been used for centuries in holistic beauty treatments and remedies, many people don’t realize that castor oil is a natural botanical ingredient, derived from castor seeds. In order to utilize it in cosmetic formulas, it is typically extracted and cold pressed, so as not to compromise its concentration of active enzymes and nourishing abilities. Once it has been properly cultivated, it can then be blended with other oils and ingredients, and enjoyed for its many benefits.
A few of our favorites include:
Benefit #1: Jamaican castor oil is packed with beauty boosting nutrients
Sometimes called “wonder oil”, castor oil is incredibly nourishing for the skin and hair. Its nutritional makeup includes antioxidants like Vitamin E and essential fatty acids, which support repair processes, and combats free radical damage. Castor oil can be used to address skin health concerns such as inflammation and barrier damage. It’s also been found to have antibacterial, antifungal and oil-balancing properties, making it a great choice for acne prone skin.
Benefit #2: Jamaican castor oil delivers intense moisture and hydration
One of the most common uses of castor oil is as a moisturizing agent, and with good reason. Its ability to replenish the skin and promote long-lasting moisture make it an effective treatment for dryness, dullness, signs of aging, rough texture, cracked lips, and other concerns related to a lack of moisture and hydration at the skin’s surface. You can even use it as a targeted treatment for your hands, nails, and cuticles for overall repair following frequent handwashing.
Benefit #3: Jamaican castor oil can be used to cleanse and condition your whole body
Though you’ll find castor oil in many creams, lotions, and other hydrators, it’s worth noting that it’s also frequently included in cleanser formulas, such as African Liquid Black Soap, which can be used to refresh your hair and skin all-in-one. As a shampoo and body wash, it’s especially beneficial because it works to purify and cleanse without stripping away vital moisture or depleting protective oil reserves.
Benefit #4: Jamaican castor oil promotes healthy, happy hair
Lastly, be sure not to miss out on castor oil’s positive effects for your hair. Thanks to its high content of fatty acids and overall moisture, it works to infuse the hair with added smoothness and shine. Castor oil can be used as a finishing treatment to tame flyaways and prevent frizz, or applied to the brows and lashes for encouraging growth, and strengthening hair at the root.
