Anyone who has ever experienced hair loss or thinning has probably considered adding castor oil to their beauty regimen. After all, it is relatively cheap and easy to obtain. If you believe the people on the internet, it’s also a surefire way to get thicker, stronger strands. “My hair got stronger and [has grown] inches,” one buyer said of a popular castor oil sold on Amazon. Another buyer added“I put this product on my scalp before bed and wake up with thicker, fuller hair!”
It’s tempting to believe the hype about castor oil, but it’s worth digging a little deeper first. Is this humble product as powerful as people suggest? Can hair actually grow back when applied topically – and if so, how quickly? Below, dermatologists weigh in on the effectiveness of castor oil when it comes to hair growth.
Every dermatologist we interviewed said the same thing: There is no scientific proof that castor oil makes hair grow. “Most of the evidence on the effectiveness of castor oil on hair growth has been anecdotal,” says Dr. Michele Verde, a cosmetic dermatologist in New York City. “There is no definitive evidence that castor oil stimulates hair growth in areas such as the scalp or eyebrows.”
“Castor oil does not increase the number of hair follicles or the diameter of existing hairs,” he adds. Dr.a dermatologist based in India.
Castor oil has hair care benefits.
Although there is no direct link between castor oil and hair growth, dermatologists say it has other benefits. “Castor oil contains ingredients such as ricinoleic acid and fatty acids that have a moisturizing and nourishing effect on the hair,” he says. Dr. Lori Ramíreza Utah-based dermatologist.
According to Green, castor oil also has inflammatory properties that can help improve circulation and stimulate hair follicles. This means more nutrients and oxygen can reach the hair follicles, making the hair less prone to breakage.
Too much castor oil can be a bad thing.
Whatever you do, don’t wet your hair with castor oil. “Castor oil is a very thick, sticky substance,” says Ramirez. She warns that using too much can have the opposite effect to the desired results. “Hair becomes tangled or felted with excessive use of castor oil. This is a condition where the hair becomes irreversibly tangled and needs to be cut,” explains Ramirez.
Not all castor oil is the same.
As castor oil has grown in popularity, it has become more affordable. You can buy a bottle for less than $10, but it’s important to note that not all castor oil is created equal. “When purchasing castor oil, it is essential to look for 100% pure, organic, cold-pressed castor oil,” says Dr. Anna Chacón, dermatologist in Miami. “This ensures you get a high-quality product without any additives or chemicals.”
Something else to look for? Hexane-free castor oil, a chemical solvent used to extract oil from castor seeds. “The hexane extraction process can remove some beneficial properties,” explains Singh.
Amazon
More than 47,000 buyers have rated this popular castor oil five stars. It is organic, cold pressed and hexane free.
Amazon
Castor oil is thick and sticky, which can make it difficult to apply. This under-$10 bottle comes with a dropper that keeps mess to a minimum, plus two applicators that make it easy to put the castor oil just where you want it.
Looking for effective ways to grow your hair? Check out our top hair growth products for women.
The revisions cited above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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