Composition and benefits of castor oil
We know, we know, the phrase “castor oil” sounds like something from your grandmother’s medicine cabinet. However, this is exactly the case when grandma was right: this oil has such an impressive list of advantages that even expensive hair masks respectfully take off their hats.
- Prevents brittleness and split ends.
- Strengthens the hair structure itself.
- Makes hair smooth and shiny.
And all this is subject to one condition - castor oil must be used regularly: either in its pure form or as part of care products.
Composition of castor oil
The secret to the effectiveness of castor oil is actually not a secret at all. It's all about its composition: almost 90% of the oil consists of rare ricinoleic acid, which strengthens hair follicles. Besides her, they fight for the health of your curls:
- Oleic acid – seals moisture inside the hair and prevents dryness and brittleness.
- Stearic acid – repairs damage (including split ends).
- Linoleic acid – normalizes fat balance and has an anti-inflammatory effect.
- Palmitic acid – strengthens roots and prevents hair loss.
What kind of hair is castor oil suitable for?
The most correct answer to this question is for anyone. Yes, even for oily hair, because hair often becomes oily due to disruptions in the functioning of the sebaceous glands. Castor oil helps normalize it and, in addition, provides hair with moisture.
Castor oil is a must have for those with dry hair that likes to tangle. The oil will make combing easier and have a nourishing effect. How to use it?
- If your problem is split ends and blow-dried ends, apply oil only to the ends of your hair.
- If you want to improve the structure or restore damaged hair, distribute the oil over the entire length.
- If you need to get rid of dandruff, prevent hair loss or accelerate hair growth, carefully rub the oil into the hair roots and scalp. Massage is welcome!
Using oils instead of face cream
Modern cosmetologists disagree on how beneficial it is to replace face cream with oil. Some argue that this should never be done, while others note the effectiveness of such skin care at home.
Benefits of using oils
Oils, unlike store-bought decorative cosmetics, are natural products for facial skin care. The main positive quality of oils is the ability to accelerate cell regeneration and thereby restore the skin from the inside. They are absorbed quite quickly. In addition, they do not have a strong odor. With regular use of cosmetic oils, the skin will become smooth and velvety, and wrinkles will become less noticeable.
Harm from using oils
As mentioned above, the opinion of cosmetologists about replacing face creams with cosmetic oils is ambiguous. Some experts believe that their use can lead to serious skin problems.
The appearance of pimples and acne
Unfortunately, this phenomenon is not uncommon when replacing cream with cosmetic oils. The fact is that these products have the property of forming a thin, invisible film on the surface of the skin. Therefore, when using oils, the skin needs additional regular cleansing. With careless facial care, the skin is unable to breathe, and clogged pores are the cause of inflammation.
Insecurity of the skin
Cosmetic oils tend to almost completely remove natural sebum. Having lost this layer, the skin becomes more susceptible to low and high temperatures, as well as sunlight.
Dry skin
Dry skin is a direct consequence of the first two problems. According to cosmetologists, the main causes of skin dehydration are: damage or complete loss of the protective layer in the form of sebum, as well as impaired skin breathing.
Rules for using cosmetic oils
In order to avoid negative consequences, it is enough to follow a few simple rules:
- Don't completely give up face creams. Apply a moisturizer to cleansed skin several times a week;
- Oils are applied only to damp skin. This will help avoid dehydration;
- There is no need to apply too much cosmetic oil (optimally 2-3 drops);
- You should apply oils to your facial skin no more than 2 times a week and no longer than 1.5 months.
In this article, we told you about the benefits and harms of replacing face cream with cosmetic oil, as well as how to choose it correctly in accordance with the condition of the skin. Please note that only high-quality products can be used. They must be certified, and it is best to purchase them from trusted places. It is best to focus your attention on cold-pressed oils. However, it will not be possible to completely replace face cream with this homemade cosmetic composition. The maximum effect can be achieved only with the right combination of natural and chemical agents.
Oil in its pure form or as part of a product: what should you prefer?
Pure oil or a whole cocktail of beneficial hair ingredients? Each option has its advantages, but in any case they will say “thank you”.
Benefits of castor oil products:
- They are easier to wash off. But with oil in its pure form you will have to tinker.
- They have a balanced composition and an effective formula. And caring for long hair with split ends is exactly the case when you need a heavy artillery of useful ingredients.
- They do not leave greasy stains on clothes. Oil, alas, cannot promise this.
Keratin hair care set: shampoo + conditioner + mask + cream
Elseve Dream Length
Super balm Easy Combing Dream Length for long damaged hair, 400ml
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Elseve Dream Length
Cream care “No Scissors” leave-in, for long damaged hair
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Elseve Dream Length
Shampoo-transformation Dream Length for long damaged hair, 400ml
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Elseve Dream Length
Rescue mask for long damaged hair with keratin
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Benefits of pure castor oil:
In its pure form, castor oil can have different shades: from yellowish to transparent. Moreover, the lighter the oil, the better quality it is.
Cosmetic castor oil is usually used in pharmaceuticals and cosmetology. It differs from the usual degree of purification and is considered less allergenic. The main advantage of this oil is the highest concentration of nutrients, which is not diluted in any way.
You need to store castor oil in a cool, dark place - for example, under the bed. Well, or in the cabinet with other skincare products.
Contraindications to the use of pure oil
When you definitely can't:
- Individual intolerance.
- Allergy.
When possible, but with caution and locally (for example, only on the ends):
- If your hair is very oily
Did you recognize yourself in one of these points? Then it is better to use ready-made products containing castor oil - they are safer. Brittle, damaged hair, for example, will definitely appreciate Elseve Dream Length Cream Care. It can be applied along the entire length of the hair or just at the ends.
Basic facial oils
Use these oils as base oils to keep your skin bright and glowing.
Linen
An excellent base product with a smoothing effect. Recommended for use by women over 30 years old, as it is considered one of the best helpers in the fight against early wrinkles.
Castor
Can remove pigment spots from acne. Recommended to use with orange or jasmine essential oil to treat uneven skin.
Jojoba
An excellent product that softens the dermis, making it supple and silky. Recommended for use in frosty seasons. A good effect is noticed when used on the lips.
Olive
Promotes cell regeneration and the production of your own collagen. Use it to fight acne in tandem with tea tree oil.
Coconut
Perfectly treats sunburn on the face, acting as a remedy for and after tanning. Nourishes the skin, saturating it with the most important natural substances.
Sea buckthorn
An aging oil designed to restore the natural oily film on dry skin. Excellently fights wrinkles and unevenness on the face. Increases skin elasticity, making it firm and shiny. Does not cause allergies.
Wheat
Produced from young sprouts. Plays an important role in natural cell regeneration, nourishes and softens the skin. Allowed for use from an early age.
As you can see, the choice of basic drugs is large. You can use only one favorite oil, mixing it with essential oil in different combinations, or you can use them all alternately. The main thing to remember is that in such a matter as oil therapy there should be no fanaticism: you cannot use cosmetic oils for the face instead of cream on an ongoing basis!
Using Pure Castor Oil
Using castor oil is akin to a magic spell - you have to meet a lot of conditions and prepare properly. What's next? Expecto castorus!
How to apply castor oil to the ends of your hair
To begin, prepare hot water, a bowl, a jar with a lid, a towel and an old T-shirt or towel that you don’t mind getting dirty.
Castor oil is very thick, so it can be mixed with other oils that are beneficial for hair - this mixture will be easier to apply. For example, argan, coconut, almond or shea butter are suitable.
- Mix a teaspoon of castor oil with other oils in a ratio of 3 to 1. Add 1-2 drops of your favorite essential oil, because castor oil itself does not have a very pleasant aroma. Close the jar with a lid and shake thoroughly.
- Pour hot water into a bowl and place the jar in it for 3-4 minutes. It is important that water does not get inside!
- Lightly wet the ends of your hair (they should be slightly damp, not wet) and distribute warm oil. If your goal is to fight split ends, you don’t need to apply it to your hair along the entire length and roots.
- Wrap the ends of your hair with film and secure with elastic bands or hairpins. To avoid staining your clothes, cover your shoulders with an old towel.
- Wash off the oil after 30-60 minutes.
How to wash off castor oil
After the procedure, the oil probably won’t want to leave your hair, so you’ll have to wash it off several times. Plain water will not help - you need a good shampoo. For example, Transformation Elseve Dream Length. It will help remove oiliness and will not dry out the ends when washing again.
In addition, you can wash off castor oil with decoctions of medicinal herbs: for example, chamomile or nettle.
How often can you use castor oil?
If you have oily hair, it is enough to apply this mask once a week, if you have dry hair - 2-3 times. However, you still need to use other hair care products, especially if your hair is dry, brittle and prone to split ends. What can we recommend? Super balm Easy combing Elseve Dream Length. It will help untangle all the knots in your hair and turn it into a smooth, shiny wave that flows over your shoulders!
How to use the oil?
When caring, you can use liquids as a stand-alone product or as part of more complex masks.
- Burdock oil is preheated in a water bath - due to its heavy structure, then applied to the ends, curls the hair on the head and puts on an insulating bandage. The mask is kept on for at least an hour, after which the hair should be washed thoroughly.
- You can lubricate the ends with this composition: beat a mixture of tablespoons of olive or peach oil and lemon juice with one yolk, apply to the ends for 30–60 minutes. It is recommended to use a warming bandage here too. Simply rinse your hair with warm water.
- A mixture of 3 parts of almond and 1 part of burdock oil can be applied to the ends without a bandage. Leave the mask on for 40 minutes and wash off with warm water.
- A good result can be obtained if you smear the ends with a mixture based on burdock root. The fresh root is ground and poured with a glass of almond, olive, or castor oil. The root is infused in a dark place for a day, then heated in a water bath for 20 minutes. The cooled mixture is filtered and used as a hair mask. The composition is retained for 1–1.5 hours. You need to wash your hair with shampoo.
How to choose a product containing castor oil
Of all the castor oil options, choose unrefined, cold-pressed oil - it contains the most beneficial components. In addition to castor oil, the following are suitable for caring for long hair and split ends:
- Plant keratin
- Natural vegetable oils (olive, burdock, flaxseed, argan, etc.)
- Vitamin PP
- Vitamins A, E and group B
- Fruit wax
- Extracts of medicinal plants
Professional products
Professional cosmetics make caring for your hair much easier. The composition is purchased ready-made, as a rule, has a form convenient for application, is easier to wash off and is quite effective. The only drawback of this solution is the relatively high cost.
- Elixir oil from Fructis is quite affordable - from 250 rubles. for 150 ml. Light, quickly absorbed, does not weigh down the strands, has a light floral aroma. Suitable for daily care.
- "Essence Ultime Schwazkopf" - does not contain alcohol, but does contain silicone compounds. Medium in viscosity, has a strong sweet smell, which is not always appropriate. Costs from 230 rub. for 75 ml.
- Care oil from “Schauma” - includes 8 different oils, almost odorless. Does not leave a greasy shine on the curls. A very convenient bottle with a dispenser. Cost – 130–156 rubles. for 50 ml.
- "Orofluido Liquid Gold Beauty Elixir" is a leave-in oil. It has a very light consistency and does not leave greasy marks. Once applied to the ends, there is no need to remove it. Costs from 730 rub. per bottle.
- Crystal oil "Gliss Kur" - includes only 1 oil, which does not prevent it from being very effective. Bottle with dispenser, weak odor, economical consumption. A 75 ml bottle costs about 250–280 rubles.
- "Ollin Care Restore Serum With Flax Seeds" is a professional product. The consistency is very thick, but it is also used extremely sparingly. Designed for very dry and brittle strands. Costs from 500 rub. per package – 150 ml.
- "Matrix Biolage Exquisite Oil" is a product of Spanish cosmetologists. Light flower oil, quickly restores hair, does not weigh it down and does not add greasy shine. Its cost is from 780 rubles. per bottle of 90 ml.
Hair care oil is an indispensable element of the cosmetic first aid kit. The curls of modern beauties are subject to too much stress. So such a care product turns out to be necessary.
See also: How to properly care for dry hair and split ends (video)
Castor oil for hair ends: life hacks
- If you don't want to spend the whole evening washing off castor oil, apply it to dirty hair. This way it will wash off faster!
- To achieve the best effect, wrap your hair or ends with a towel. This “greenhouse effect” will enhance the effect of the components.
- To check if you have an allergy, place a drop of castor oil on the crook of your elbow. If there is no redness or itching, you can safely apply the oil to your hair and scalp.
Review of castor oil products from L'Oreal Paris
Elseve Dream Length
Super balm Easy Combing Dream Length for long damaged hair, 400ml
More details
Elseve Dream Length
Cream care “No Scissors” leave-in, for long damaged hair
More details
Elseve Dream Length
Shampoo-transformation Dream Length for long damaged hair, 400ml
More details
Elseve Dream Length
Rescue mask for long damaged hair with keratin
More details
Super balm Easy combing Elseve Dream Length
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Your tangled hair needs a new hero! The hero they deserve. Elseve Super Balm is enriched with castor oil, vegetable keratin and vitamin B5. Apply it along the entire length of your hair, avoiding the roots, after using shampoo to save your hair from brittleness, seal split ends and return your curls to a beautiful natural shine.
The balm is intended for long damaged hair.
Cream care Elseve Dream Length
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Can't grow your length because of split ends that you have to trim all the time? Use a leave-in care cream from Elseve, designed specifically for long, damaged hair. In addition to castor oil, its formula includes vegetable keratin, which restores hair along the entire length and protects ends from breakage. No to scissors, yes to long and shiny hair!
Rescue mask Elseve Dream Length
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Hey, pssssssssss, we know what your long, damaged hair with split ends needs - a unique trio of ingredients under one cap in a rescue mask from Elseve!
- Castor oil - seals split ends, smoothes hair, gives it shine.
- Vitamin B5PP – strengthens hair from roots to ends, increasing its protective functions.
- Plant keratin - restores hair and protects it from the effects of negative environmental factors.
The formula nourishes hair and makes it softer than ever. Use the mask 2-3 times a week to finally win the battle for the health and beauty of long hair!
