JOIN OUR WHATSAPP CHANNEL
Castor Oil for Wrinkles: Amazing Benefits And Ways to Use
Castor oil is an amazing ingredient that fights the signs of aging effectively. Learn all about the ways to use castor oil for wrinkles and get radiant skin.
Castor oil has been a hot topic in medical sciences since time immemorial, especially when it comes to skin and hair care. This pale yellow sticky oil, from cold-pressed castor seeds, is safe to use and has amazing moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. In fact, the benefits of castor oil for wrinkles are so vast that they will make you ditch your pricey cosmetics and resort to DIY remedies. Our contributor, Dr. Zeeshan Afzal, Medical officer at Welzo, an online healthcare platform, shares the amazing benefits of castor oil for skin. He says, “Castor oil is often praised for its potential benefits to the skin. It contains fatty acids, particularly ricinoleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties. These properties can help soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and provide hydration. Castor oil is also thought to promote collagen production and elastin synthesis, which can contribute to smoother and more youthful-looking skin. However, individual reactions may vary, and it's essential to do a patch test before applying castor oil to a larger area of your skin.”
Castor oil is an outstanding, all-natural way to aid in the recovery and rejuvenation of your overall health. From its uses as a purgative to relieve constipation and an ointment for wound healing, to boosting hair growth and skin regeneration, castor oil is omnipresent. Moreover, the ricinoleic acid present in castor oil helps smoothen the skin, fight skin inflammation, and keep the skin wrinkle-free (1).
Amazing Benefits of Castor Oil for Wrinkles
Wrinkles are creases or lines that form on the skin's surface, typically as a result of aging, sun exposure, and repetitive facial expressions. These factors retard and damage the production of collagen and elastin fibers in the skin. The skin loses its inherent tone and elasticity, forming folds known as wrinkles. Our contributor, Dr. Zeeshan Afzal shares with us the main causes behind the formation of wrinkles. He says, “Wrinkles are primarily caused by a combination of factors, including the natural aging process, loss of collagen and elastin in the skin, repetitive facial expressions, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, and lifestyle choices like smoking and poor skincare. As we age, the skin becomes less elastic and hydrated, leading to the formation of lines and wrinkles. Protecting your skin from sun exposure, staying hydrated, eating a healthy diet, and using skincare products with ingredients like retinol can help minimize the appearance of wrinkles.”
Cosmetic experts have explored the field of the best oils for wrinkles and have suggested numerous natural remedies to reduce their appearance. The use of castor oil for wrinkles has been proven with scientific and anecdotal evidence.
There are numerous costly serums available that promise to treat wrinkles. Have you ever turned the bottle over to check the contents list? Castor oil has some of the same components as many anti-wrinkle, anti-aging commercial products. The only distinction being castor oil is ‘all-natural’. Research says that your stretch marks and wrinkles may just vanish with just a few drops of this magical oil (2),(3). Castor oil skin benefits, especially the ones that can halt the signs of aging, are much coveted by all.
How is castor oil good for wrinkles? Read on to know more!
1. Moisturizes the Skin
Castor oil moisturizes the skin deeply. It hydrates the skin and reduces the shriveled appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by penetrating the deeper layers of the skin. The moisturizing effect plumps up the skin, making wrinkles less visible.
The skin orbiting the eye is far more delicate than the rest of your face, making it much more prone to wrinkles. Thus, using castor oil for wrinkles around the eyes involves wiping these fine folds that are already present and preventing new ones from developing (2).
2. Stimulates Collagen Production
Castor oil is essentially a triglyceride composed of fatty acids, 90% of which is ricinoleic acid. Ricinoleic acid has been shown to stimulate collagen synthesis in the skin. Collagen is a necessary protein that preserves the skin's elasticity and firmness. Castor oil for wrinkles works effectively as it helps improve skin texture, tone and stimulates collagen production (2).
According to Dr Kashish Kalra MD, Dermatologist, Head of Department, Max Smart Hospital, New Delhi, “Collagen accounts for 30% of your body’s protein. It provides structure, support, or strength to your skin, muscles, bones, and connective tissues. It helps fibroblasts to form in your dermis (middle skin layer), which helps new cells grow, replace dead skin cells, and provide a covering to our organs. As you age, collagen breaks down at faster rates, and this skin sags down, so collagen-producing procedures are very helpful to boost your natural collagen and maintain the integrity of skin cells.”
3. Boosts Skin Regeneration
Castor oil has regenerative properties that promote the growth of healthy skin tissues. Wrinkles appear less noticeable as a result of better skin tone and texture. The fatty acids in castor oil also aid in restoring the skin's natural moisture barrier, improving the skin's general health and resilience (2), (4).
4. Antioxidant Action
Castor oil is high in antioxidants, such as vitamin E, which protect the skin from free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can harm skin cells and speed up the aging process, by developing pigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles. Castor oil's antioxidants combat these dangerous free radicals, shielding the skin from oxidative stress, and delaying the signs of aging. (2).
5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Wrinkle development may be accelerated by chronic skin inflammation. The anti-inflammatory nature of castor oil can calm irritated skin and lessen redness. Castor oil promotes a smoother complexion and reduces the visibility of wrinkles by reducing inflammation (2).
6. Reduces Skin Pigmentation And Blemishes
One of the biggest benefits of using castor oil for wrinkles is that it has the ability to fight the symptoms of hyperpigmentation. Pigmentation, or the darkening of certain patches of the skin, often goes hand-in-hand with wrinkles and fine lines. The antioxidants in castor oil work towards brightening the skin's complexion and gradually treating areas of pigmentation.
6. Smoothens the Skin
Castor oil’s viscous, thick texture and enormous content of healthy fats, function as natural emollients. It creates a protective barrier when massaged on the skin, preserving moisture and preventing water loss. This emollient action contributes to the temporary but obvious improvement in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Castor oil's hydrating properties make the skin look smoother and younger (2).
7. Suitable for Most Skin Types
Most skin types, even sensitive skin, accept castor oil in general without any trouble. It is suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone skin. It has non-comedogenic (does not clog pores) properties, but anecdotal evidence says that it may tend to clog enlarged pores if you have oily skin. It is best used sparingly (spot treatment) in cases of oily/combination skin types. It is a secure option for those who want to treat wrinkles without using any chemicals or synthetic options.
To know if castor oil for wrinkles works, you have to be patient. Results may differ depending on a person's skin type and the degree of wrinkles. When using castor oil to treat wrinkles, consistency, and patience are essential. You might observe a discernible difference with time.
How to Use Castor Oil for Skin?
Having known the various benefits of castor oil for skin, let us explore ways in which to incorporate castor oil into our regular skin regimen. Castor oil is a valuable oil that may be applied to the skin in an assortment of ways. Following are 10 different applications for castor oil on the skin, along with the ingredients and steps to follow:
1. Castor Oil for Body Massage
What You Need:
- Castor oil
Steps:
- Take a small amount of castor oil onto your palms.
- Warm the oil by rubbing it vigorously between your palms.
- Massage the oil into your skin, paying special attention to dry areas such as your elbows, knees, and heels.
- Give your skin some time to absorb the oil.
2. Castor Oil for Face Massage
What You Need:
- Castor oil
- Carrier oil (such as olive oil or jojoba oil)
Steps:
- In a clean container, combine 1 teaspoon of castor oil and 2-3 drops of carrier oil.
- Put 4-5 drops of the oil mixture on your face.
- Gently massage the oil into your skin in circular motions.
- Use a warm washcloth over your face for a few seconds.
- Use the washcloth to gently wipe the oil off, removing any makeup and impurities.
You can simply use this concoction for face massage on a clean face or as a cleanser to remove dirt, grime, and makeup. Jojoba oil moisturizes the skin and fights the signs of skin aging effectively (5). When combined with castor oil, it works as a great anti-aging skincare remedy.
3. Nourishing Lip Balm
What You Need:
- Castor oil
- Shea butter
- Beeswax
- Essential oil (such as lavender or peppermint)
Steps:
- Equal parts of castor oil, beeswax, and shea butter should be combined in a heat-safe container.
- To melt the ingredients, heat the container in a double boiler or microwave.
- Add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance after the butter has melted, then turn the heat off.
- Pour the mixture into tiny lip balm containers after thoroughly stirring it.
- Allow the balm to cool and become hard before use.
Vitamin A, found in beeswax, efficiently shields the skin from UV rays and promotes skin cell renewal (6). On the other hand, shea butter encourages the growth of new cells and increases collagen formation (7). Together, they treat the wrinkles and fine lines caused by aging and environmental stress. Lavender or peppermint oil is soothing for the skin and is popular for its refreshing fragrances (5).
4. Castor Oil to Grow Eyelashes
What You Need:
- A few drops of castor oil
Steps:
- Apply a few drops of castor oil to your lashes and brows using a clean mascara wand or a cotton swab.
- Make sure to apply the oil to the hair from the roots to the tips.
- After letting the oil sit all night, rinse it off the next morning.
- Repeat this process regularly to promote the growth and nourishment of your lashes and brows.
Castor oil is a popular choice for hair growth remedies and is known to improve hair texture and boost hair growth (8).
5. Castor Oil for Healing Old Scars
What You Need:
- A few drops of castor oil
Steps:
- Use a gentle cleanser to thoroughly clean the scarred area, then pat it dry.
- Castor oil should be applied sparingly to the scar and gently massaged in circular motions.
- Allow the oil to penetrate the skin.
- Repeat this procedure twice daily to help scars soften and fade over time (2),(4),(9).
6. Castor Oil for Nails
What You Need:
- Castor oil
Steps:
- Fill a clean serum bottle (usually 30 ml) halfway with castor oil.
- Dip a cotton swab into the oil and apply it to your cuticles and nails.
- Massage the oil into the cuticles and nails gently.
- For deep moisturization, leave the oil on for at least 15 minutes, preferably overnight.
- Remove any excess oil by wiping it away.
Castor oil contains copious amounts of the natural emollient ricinoleic acid, with its properties of deep skin nourishment. Ricinoleic acid, when heated, is converted into undecylenic acid, which is known to be antifungal. Thus, castor oil is a great way to keep your nails and cuticles strong, soft, and free of fungal infections (4).
7. Anti-Aging Face Mask
What You Need:
- 1 tablespoon of castor oil
- ½ avocado 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
Steps:
- Mash half an avocado in a bowl until it forms a smooth paste.
- To the avocado paste, add 1 tablespoon of castor oil, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.
- Mix all of the ingredients thoroughly until you have a uniform mask.
- Avoid touching your eyes when applying the mask to your face.
- Apply the mask for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse and pat dry with warm water.
Avocados are not just delicious, they are great for skin care purposes too — they are known to boost collagen production and keep the skin healthy (10). Honey is laden with vitamins, amino acids, and proteins that help the skin supple and prevent the formation of wrinkles (11). Lemon, on the other hand, is rich in vitamin C which helps improve skin elasticity and reverse the symptoms of skin aging (12).
8. Spot Treatment for Acne
What you need:
- Castor oil
- Tea tree oil
Steps:
- Combine a few drops of castor oil with 1-2 drops of tea tree oil.
- Face wash thoroughly, then pat dry.
- Directly apply the mixture to acne spots or blemishes with a cotton swab soaked in the oil.
- Leave it on for 1--2 hours or overnight.
- Rinse with water and repeat as needed.
The various properties of tea tree oil make it an excellent remedy to fight the signs of aging and keep your skin healthy and glowing (13).
9. Castor Oil for Body Spa
What you need:
- Castor oil
- Lavender essential oil
- Chamomile essential oil
Steps:
- Five drops of each lavender and chamomile essential oil and a quarter cup of castor oil should be put in a clean container.
- Mix the oils thoroughly.
- Place the container in warm water to slightly warm the mixture.
- Apply the oil to your body gently, paying special attention to any sore or tense muscles.
- Enjoy a soothing massage and let the oil hydrate and calm your skin.
Both lavender and chamomile essential oil have soothing, calming, and healing properties that relax the body and relieve anxiety (14).
10. Castor Oil as a Foot Callus Softener
What you need:
- 2 tablespoons of castor oil
- 2 tablespoons of baking soda
- Warm water
Steps:
- Fill a tub with warm water and add two tablespoons of castor oil and two tablespoons of baking soda.
- Spend 15 to 20 minutes soaking your feet in the solution.
- Using a pumice stone or foot brush, gently scrub the calloused areas.
- Rinse and dry your feet with warm water.
- To add more moisture, follow up by using a foot cream or moisturizer.
How to Use Castor Oil for Wrinkles?
Dr. Kashish Kalra further says, “While castor oil has many properties that may help reduce wrinkles, there’s no direct evidence yet that proves this claim. However, studies have shown that castor oil is an effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory — both of which help fight free radicals and may slow the aging process. Castor oil contains fatty acids that have moisturizing, skin health-enhancing, and antioxidant properties. These fatty acids may also help minimize wrinkles. Castor oil also has emollient properties known to help improve your skin’s texture and healthy appearance.”
There are plenty of ways to use castor oil for wrinkles — you can use it directly on your skin, or mix it with other ingredients to prepare an effective homemade face pack for the signs of aging. Castor oil can be mixed with various ingredients such as almond oil, coconut oil, lemon juice, turmeric, aloe vera gel, rose water, or olive oil to fight the signs of wrinkles.
Conclusion
There aren't many natural products with such versatile benefits, especially when it comes to skincare and beauty. Castor oil is unquestionably one of these gifts from nature. You can use castor oil for wrinkles in different ways and get flawless skin. The ease of availability, moderate cost, and versatile health applications of castor oil make it a wonderful choice to use for different skincare purposes. Castor oil is very potent with active ingredients. However, it is advisable to perform a patch test before applying it to the skin. Always buy pure, organic, cold-pressed castor oil from a reputed brand to avoid added impurities. Switching to all-natural ingredients in our day-to-day lives is the best way to lead a healthy and eco-friendly life. Without further delay, say hello to this new addition to your dresser, castor oil!
Contributor : Dr. Zeeshan Afzal, MD, Welzo Medical Officer
Sources:
1. Yeboah A, Ying S, Lu J, Xie Y, Amoanimaa-Dede H, Boateng KG, Chen M, Yin X. Castor oil (Ricinus communis): a review on the chemical composition and physicochemical properties. Food Science and Technology. 2020 Oct 30.
https://www.scielo.br/j/cta/a/jtzR5bpyvr9Fm6WYDrRqt7t/?lang=en&format=html
2. Sandford EC, Muntz A, Craig JP. Therapeutic potential of castor oil in managing blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction and dry eye. Clinical and Experimental Optometry. 2021 Apr 3;104(3):315-22.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/cxo.13148
3. Mohammed BJ, Sabeeh SA, Jaber AH, Faja OM. Comparing the effects of eggshell membrane, olive oil, or castor oil as a skin anti-aging agent. Official Publication of Africa Health Research Organization August 2019 Vol. 22 (II).:110.
4. Van der Steen M, Stevens CV. Undecylenic acid: a valuable and physiologically active renewable building block from castor oil. ChemSusChem: Chemistry & Sustainability Energy & Materials. 2009 Aug 24;2(8):692-713.
https://chemistry-europe.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/cssc.200900075
5. Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL. Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils. International journal of molecular sciences. 2017 Dec 27;19(1):70.
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/19/1/70
6. Loden M, Andersson AC. Effect of topically applied lipids on surfactant?irritated skin. British Journal of Dermatology. 1996 Feb 1;134(2):215-20.
https://academic.oup.com/bjd/article-abstract/134/2/215/6681786
7. Kadu M, Vishwasrao S, Singh S. Review on natural lip balm. International Journal of Research in Cosmetic Science. 2015;5(1):1-7.
8. Phong C, Lee V, Yale K, Sung C, Mesinkovska N. Coconut, Castor, and Argan Oil for Hair in Skin of Color Patients: A Systematic Review. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022 Jul 1;21(7):751-757.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35816075/
9. Sharma A, Shukla S, Kalonia A, Shaw P, Yashavarddhan M, Manda K. Evaluation of wound healing potential of ascorbic acid, castor oil, and gum tragacanth formulation in murine excisional wound model. Pharmacognosy Magazine. 2020 Apr 1;16(69).
10. Werman MJ, Mokady S, Ntmni ME, Neeman I. The effect of various avocado oils on skin collagen metabolism. Connective tissue research. 1991 Jan 1;26(1-2):1-0.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.3109/03008209109152159
11. Burlando B, Cornara L. Honey in dermatology and skin care: a review. Journal of cosmetic dermatology. 2013 Dec;12(4):306-13.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jocd.12058
12. Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MC. The roles of vitamin C in skin health. Nutrients. 2017 Aug 12;9(8):866.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/9/8/866
13. Hammer KA. Treatment of acne with tea tree oil (melaleuca) products: a review of efficacy, tolerability and potential modes of action. International journal of antimicrobial agents. 2015 Feb 1;45(2):106-10.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0924857914003458
14. Ebrahimi H, Mardani A, Basirinezhad MH, Hamidzadeh A, Eskandari F. The effects of Lavender and Chamomile essential oil inhalation aromatherapy on depression, anxiety and stress in older community-dwelling people: A randomized controlled trial. Explore. 2022 May 1;18(3):272-8.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S155083072100001X
FAQs
