Castor Oil
Castor oil is a thick, nourishing plant oil widely used in UK beauty products for its ability to moisturise, condition and add shine. Popular in lip balms, mascaras, hair treatments and cleansing oils, it gives a rich, glossy finish while helping to soften and smooth.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, castor oil functions as an emollient and occlusive agent that helps lock in moisture while creating a protective barrier on skin and hair. Its unique ricinoleic acid content gives it a slightly viscous texture that provides excellent slip in lip products and mascaras, and helps hair products adhere to the hair shaft for improved shine and manageability.
Key benefits
- Deeply moisturises and softens dry skin
- Adds shine and lustre to hair
- Helps condition and tame frizz
- Creates a protective barrier against moisture loss
- Provides excellent slip in lip balms and glosses
- Gives thickening and volumising effect in mascaras
Best for
dry skin, dehydrated skin, mature skin, sensitive skin
Where it comes from
Castor oil is a vegetable oil pressed from the seeds of the castor bean plant (Ricinus communis), a shrub native to eastern Africa and western Asia that is now grown in many tropical regions.