How to Use Castor Oil for Hair, Face and Body

Castor oil is thick and slow to absorb compared to lighter oils like jojoba or almond oil, so how you apply it matters more than with most other oils. Here's exactly how to use it on hair, face, and skin.

Patch test first

Before using any new oil on your scalp or face, apply a small amount to your inner forearm and wait 24 hours. Castor oil is generally well tolerated, but a patch test rules out an individual sensitivity before you apply it somewhere more visible.

On hair and scalp

1. Warm a small amount between your palms — this makes it easier to spread and less heavy.
2. Section your hair and massage the oil into your scalp with your fingertips for 2-3 minutes.
3. Work the remaining oil through the length of your hair, focusing on dry ends.
4. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes, or overnight under a shower cap or towel.
5. Wash out thoroughly with shampoo — castor oil is thick and usually needs a second lather to fully rinse.

2-3 times a week is a reasonable starting frequency. Daily use isn't necessary and can leave hair feeling weighed down.

On face

1. Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin — a few drops is enough for the whole face.
2. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes.
3. Wipe off any excess with a soft cloth or tissue; you don't need to rinse with water.

Because castor oil is heavier than most facial oils, start with once or twice a week and see how your skin responds before increasing frequency.

On body, cuticles and brows

• Feet and elbows: massage in at night on dry patches; it works well under socks or gloves as an overnight seal.
• Cuticles and nails: massage a drop into each nail bed a few times a week.
• Brows and lashes: use a clean spoolie or cotton swab to apply a very thin layer before bed, avoiding direct contact with the eyes.

What to avoid

• Don't apply it right before going out in the sun on exposed skin — like any oil, it can trap heat.
• Avoid getting it directly in the eyes.
• Don't use more than a thin layer on the face — a little goes a long way and excess just sits on the skin.

For the reasoning behind why cold-pressed matters here, see castor oil benefits. If your main goal is hair growth specifically, read castor oil for hair growth for a realistic breakdown.