Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a versatile, plant-derived ingredient used in UK beauty products as an emollient, thickener and emulsifier. It helps blend oils with water, gives balms and lipsticks their smooth texture, and leaves skin feeling soft without greasiness.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, hydrogenated castor oil is created by adding hydrogen to castor oil, turning the liquid into a more stable, waxy solid. It acts as an excellent thickening agent and emulsifier, helping to stabilise formulations such as creams, balms, mascaras and lipsticks while improving their texture and spreadability. Its mild, non-irritating nature makes it a popular choice in clean-beauty and natural formulations across the UK.
Key benefits
- Provides a smooth, creamy texture in lipsticks and balms
- Helps stabilise oil-in-water emulsions
- Acts as a gentle emollient to soften skin and lips
- Improves product consistency and spreadability
- Enhances the staying power of colour cosmetics
- Gives a non-greasy finish in moisturisers and hair products
Best for
dry skin, normal skin, sensitive skin, mature skin
Where it comes from
Hydrogenated Castor Oil is derived from the seeds of the castor oil plant (Ricinus communis), a shrub native to tropical regions. The oil is extracted from the seeds and then hydrogenated to create a more stable, solid form used in cosmetics.