Castor Seed Oil: Nature’s Multitasker

Castor seed oil is a versatile and time-tested ingredient in skincare. Research shows that it has long been used in Persian medicine to cure skin conditions, such as hyperpigmentation (Parvizi 2023). In ancient Egypt, it was also used for spiritual purposes, known as the  “Palm of Christ” and a master detoxifier (Quintana). 

Castor seed oil has internal and external benefits, which is why it is widely used today. This unique oil is a great multitasker, having a variety of different uses such as lamp fuel, paints, plastics, skincare, haircare, and even medicine. 

At Üazú Skincare, we’ve recognized the many powers of castor seed oil and incorporated it into our products for its unique multifaceted properties such as its ability to balance moisture while offering a soothing layer for any skin in need of a little care. We’ve come up with a complete guide to castor oil, including what it is, why we use it, common myths, and how to use it. Let’s get started!

what is Castor Seed Oil?

Castor seeds are derived from the Ricinus communis plant, native to regions such as Africa and other tropical regions of the world. Once harvested, the seeds are cold pressed in order to retrieve castor seed oil – a thick, viscous liquid that has a pale yellow color. Surprisingly, castor seeds are extremely toxic because they are rich in ricin, but once they are cold pressed, they work well as laxatives, labor-inducers, and skincare! 

So what makes castor seed oil so special? We can thank its high concentration of ricinoleic acid – a fatty acid that delivers deep hydration and soothing properties. It is also chalk full of antioxidants and essential vitamins, allowing the oil to penetrate and work deep within the skin. Whether you are using the oil to moisturize dry skin, promote softness, or alleviate irritation, castor oil is the multipurpose powerhouse you’ve been looking for. 

Key Benefits of Castor Seed Oil

• Hydration Powerhouse: castor oil’s deep penetration allows it to lock moisture within all layers of your skin 

• Soothes Irritated Skin: castor oil anti-inflammatory properties can calm redness and irritation 

• Natural Antimicrobial: castor oil helps protect the skin against bacteria, making it idea for blemish-prone skin

• Supports Skin Barrier Function: castor oil strengthens the skin’s protective barrier, improving resilience against environmental stressors.

• Promotes Skin Renewal: Encourages cell turnover for a healthier, rejuvenated complexion.

 How Castor Oil Works in Skincare

Castor oil is an oil that is extremely rich in texture. It is much thicker than many other plant oils, such as jojoba or sacha inchi oils, which is what makes it so protective on the outer layer of skin. Castor oil is especially beneficial for those with dry skin as it’s an excellent solution for dry patches and flakiness.

Due to its ricinoleic acid content, castor seed oil works great to calm redness, swelling and irritation. This is especially helpful for those struggling with condition-prone skin such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Its antimicrobial properties double-down on acne, fighting the bacteria and other pathogens that can cause breakouts.

Just like retinol, castor seed oil’s nutrients contribute to boosting cell turnover, helping the skin renew itself. This leads to smoother, more radiant skin due to the purging of dead skin cells. It also helps to reduce the appearance of scars, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles by creating new skin cells to replace the dead ones.

Why Üazú Loves Castor Seed Oil

Castor seed oil is used in one of Üazú Skincare’s featured products: The Vitamin E Formula. This formula is known for its hydrating and skin-repairing properties, just like castor seed oil. One of our main priorities is keeping your skin nourished and healthy with nature’s finest ingredients, and castor oil does just that.

Üazú Skincare also has a commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability. Our castor seed oil is sustainably sourced, and its production helps to support local communities in regions where the Ricinus communis plant is grown. We want to help you while also helping others, making castor oil one of our prime ingredients. 

Another reason our company chose castor oil as a prime ingredient in The Vitamin E Formula is to enhance your skin while maintaining inclusivity for all skin types. Many products labeled as skincare are not suitable for all skin types, such as retinol, specific face cleansers, and acids. The Vitamin E Formula only contains ingredients that are suitable for all skin types, even sensitive ones. While some products are meant for certain types of skin, we wanted to create a product with ingredients that can be versatile in their use to promote inclusivity in the skincare world.

Castor Seed Oil Myths

MYTH: Because castor seed oil is so heavy and thick, it's going to clog my pores.

• FACT: Castor seed oil might be on the heavier side, but it's also non-comedogenic, meaning that in small amounts (like all oils), it's unlikely to clog pores. 

MYTH: Castor seed oil doesn’t absorb into my skin; it sits on the outer layer.

• FACT: Castor seed oil doesn’t only penetrate the skin, but it is known for its ability to penetrate into the deepest layers of your skin without leaving greasy residue.

MYTH: The more castor seed oil I use in my skincare routine, the more benefits I will get.

• FACT: With any oil that goes on your skin, a little goes a long way. If you are noticing any greasiness or pore clogging, you are probably using too much!

The Future of Castor Seed in Skincare

Castor seed oil is growing in popularity in the skincare industry. It used to be widely used for fuels and medicines, but now, experts are finding how beneficial castor oil can be for your skin, hence its “multitasking” nickname. The demand for natural, sustainable ingredients has skyrocketed with the advancement of the skincare industry, making castor seed oil one of the key players worldwide.

The future of castor seed oil is bright with its multifaceted uses, creating a potential for even more future uses in sustainability, innovation, and efficacy. As a versatile and sustainable ingredient, castor seed oil is paving its way through the world and playing a significant role in more than one area.

At Üazú Skincare, we will remain championing high-quality, organic ingredients such as castor oil. This oil will continue to be an essential part of our formulations, helping us create even more luxurious, nourishing products to promote your skin’s health. We are so excited to continue our skincare journey with you and castor oil!

Sources

Mahr S. Castor Bean, Ricinus communis. Wisconsin Horticulture Division of Extension. 

Parvizi M. Saki N. Samimi S. Radanfer R. Shahrizi M. Zarshenas M. (2023, November 05). Efficacy of castor oil cream in treating infraorbital hyperpigmentation: An exploratory single-arm clinical trial. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

Quintana A. The Spiritual Benefits of Castor Oil. Sacred Anarchy.