Castor oil is widely associated with remedies for hair problems. Offering many significant health benefits, castor oil is derived by cold-pressing the seeds or beans of the castor plant, which is found in Africa, India, and South America. It is loaded with ricinoleic acid, a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from free radical damage that causes collagen breakdown and wrinkles.
Additionally, castor oil is lucrative and brings shine to the hair by providing hydration and conditioning.
Does It Support Hair Growth?
While many dermatologists tend to share the benefits of castor oil, there is no concrete evidence to prove its effectiveness in promoting hair growth.
However, people anecdotally report improvements after consistently using castor oil. Dr. Marisa Garshick, a certified dermatologist, mentioned, “Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid, a type of fatty acid, which may boost circulation in the scalp and subsequently promote healthier and stronger hair, but there is no conclusive evidence that castor oil can promote hair regrowth.”
Moreover, castor oil provides relief to the scalp and hair from fungal and microbial infections. Applying castor oil can help in soothing the scalp, especially if it is irritated.
How to Use Castor Oil for Hair
1. Warm the Oil
Slightly warm the castor oil by placing the container in hot water for a few minutes. This helps to improve its consistency and makes it easier to apply.
2. Scalp Massage
Using your fingertips, massage the warm oil into your scalp in circular motions. This stimulates blood circulation and ensures the oil penetrates the hair roots.
3. Coat the Hair
Apply the remaining oil to the length of your hair, ensuring that all strands are coated. This helps to hydrate and condition the hair.
4. Leave It On
For best results, leave the oil on your hair for at least a couple of hours. You can also leave it overnight for deeper conditioning.
5. Repeat Regularly
For noticeable results, use castor oil 1-2 times a week consistently over a few months.
While castor oil may not be a miracle cure for hair growth, it is relatively safe when applied topically, there is little risk in experimenting with it for hair growth. However, If you are concerned about the overall benefits for your hair growth, it is recommended to consult a doctor first to get the best advice tailored to your needs.
