You’ve probably heard the hype—castor oil is the secret to grow long, thick hair. Maybe a friend swears by it, or you’ve seen influencers rave about its magic on social media. It’s been around forever, used in different cultures as a go-to remedy for hair growth. But does it actually work — or is it just another myth with more hype than truth?
Well, according to science, there’s no solid proof that castor oil makes hair grow faster. The American Academy of Dermatology doesn’t list it as a proven treatment for hair loss. Healthline, Medical News Today, and even dermatologists worldwide agree—there’s no strong research backing the claim. While castor oil is great for moisturizing and strengthening hair, making it look healthier, the idea that it speeds up growth is more belief than fact.
So what’s got everyone talking about it? Let’s dive into what castor oil actually does for hair and whether there’s any truth behind the buzz.
What Is Castor Oil?
Castor oil comes from the Ricinus communis plant, a tough little shrub that grows in warm places around the world. The oil itself is thick, golden, and packed with a special fatty acid called ricinoleic acid. That’s what gives it its rich, almost sticky texture and its long list of supposed benefits.
People have used castor oil for centuries. Ancient Egyptians used it as a beauty treatment, while traditional medicine turned it into a cure-all. Need shinier hair? Try castor oil. Dry skin? Castor oil. Digestive issues? Yep, castor oil (though you might not love the taste). Even today, it’s found in skincare, hair treatments, and even industrial products like lubricants and paints.
Also read: How Effective Is Batana Oil for Hair Loss? and see if it could help your hair grow.
But does that mean it actually makes hair grow? That’s where things get tricky. So, let’s take a closer look at what it really does and whether it’s worth the hype.
Potential Benefits
While castor oil may not directly make hair grow, it does have properties that can support healthier hair:
- Moisturizing – Rich in fatty acids, castor oil deeply hydrates the scalp and hair, reducing dryness and breakage.
- Antimicrobial Properties – Its antibacterial and antifungal qualities may help keep the scalp balanced and free from irritation and dandruff.
- Scalp Nourishment – Packed with antioxidants and nutrients, castor oil can help soothe and protect the scalp.
However, these benefits don’t necessarily mean longer hair—just a healthier foundation for hair to thrive.
Anecdotal Benefits (Not Scientifically Proven)
Many people claim castor oil helps with:
- Faster Hair Growth – Some believe regular use speeds up hair growth, though no scientific studies confirm this.
- Thicker Hair – Users report fuller, denser strands, but this may be due to reduced breakage rather than increased growth.
- Eyebrow & Eyelash Growth – Some apply castor oil to brows and lashes for a fuller look, but evidence is mostly personal experience.
Why It Might Work?
Castor oil is rich in antioxidants and omega-6 fatty acids, which protect hair from damage and inflammation.
Some people believe castor oil helps hair because it protects and heals the scalp. It has antioxidants, which keep tiny harmful particles called free radicals from damaging hair. This damage, known as oxidative stress, can lead to hair loss.
Castor oil also has omega-6 fatty acids, which keep the scalp healthy and may help reduce swelling around hair roots. This can create a better space for hair to grow.
What Science Says About Castor Oil and Hair Growth
Despite its popularity, there’s limited scientific evidence supporting castor oil grow hair. A systematic review published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found no strong evidence that castor oil promotes hair growth. Similarly, Healthline reports that while some claim monthly use of castor oil accelerates hair growth, there’s no clinical proof to back this up.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Mona Gohara, a board-certified dermatologist, explains that while castor oil can add shine and possibly reduce breakage due to its moisturizing properties, it’s not a proven method to grow hair. In other words, it can help your hair look healthier, but it won’t magically make it grow.
Dr. Aruna Prasad, a dermatologist featured on Doctors’ Circle, weighs in on this hot topic. With over 2 million followers on their YouTube channel, her insights hold weight.
Dr. Prasad explains that while castor oil has its benefits, growing new hair isn’t one of them. It’s a fantastic conditioner, helping hair retain moisture, reducing sun damage, and adding shine.
One common myth is that applying castor oil to the scalp can stimulate growth. Dr. Prasad warns against this, noting that its thick consistency can actually trap dirt and cause buildup, leading to irritation or even hair fall. And Listen—washing out castor oil is a struggle. The more shampoo you need, the more you strip your hair of natural oils, which can do more harm than good.
So, what actually works for hair growth? Dr. Prasad suggests focusing on the basics: scalp massages, a nutrient-rich diet, hydration, and professional advice if hair loss becomes a concern.
If you’re curious, you can watch Dr. Prasad’s full breakdown Here.
How to Use Castor Oil
For Your Hair — Scalp to Ends
First things first: castor oil is thick. Like, way thicker than your average hair oil. It’s so rich and sticky that if you go in heavy-handed, you’ll probably spend the next three washes trying to get it out. That’s why most people like to mix it with a lighter oil — coconut, jojoba, or even sweet almond oil are all great options.
A good starting blend is 1 part castor oil to 2 parts carrier oil. Not only does this make it easier to apply (and wash out), but it also helps tone down castor oil’s natural scent, which some people find… well, a little strong.
Step 1: Start with a Clean Scalp (But Not Squeaky Clean)
You don’t need freshly washed hair, but clean-ish hair helps the oil do its thing. A quick rinse or co-wash works if your hair’s feeling heavy from products.
Step 2: Warm It Up
Rub a few drops of your oil mix between your hands to warm it up — it spreads so much easier that way.
Step 3: Scalp Massage
Use your fingers to work the oil right into your roots. This is where castor oil really shines — it helps moisturize dry spots and gives your roots some extra TLC. You can focus more on thinning areas or places prone to breakage (hello, edges and nape).
Step 4: Work It Through the Mid-Lengths and Ends
Don’t leave the rest of your hair hanging! Castor oil can help with texture and protect against breakage, especially on dry ends. Just keep it light — too much can leave your hair feeling heavy and sticky.
Step 5: Leave It In — But Not Too Long
Here’s the thing — there’s no strict rule for how long castor oil should stay in your hair. Some people swear by overnight treatments, but if you’re new to it, 2 hours is a safe place to start. Leaving it on too long can actually backfire by drying out your scalp or hair, so listen to your hair and see what it likes best.
Step 6: Wash It Out (Patience Required)
Because castor oil is so thick, one shampoo might not cut it. Expect to shampoo at least twice, especially if you went all-in with the oil. A sulfate-free shampoo works well, but use whatever cleans your hair without leaving it stripped.
Also read: How to Fix Stunted Hair Growth? to get your hair back on track.
For Your Brows
Whether you’re trying to revive your brows from a little over-plucking phase (we’ve all been there) or you just want them to look a bit fuller, castor oil has definitely earned a spot in the brow care conversation.
Step 1: Patch Test First
Always, always do a patch test before putting castor oil on your face. Everyone’s skin reacts differently, so better safe than sorry.
Step 2: Clean Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin — no leftover brow gel, no makeup, nothing.
Step 3: Apply With Care
Use a clean brow brush (like a spoolie) or even a clean Q-tip. Dip it into a small amount of castor oil — you don’t need much at all. Let any excess drip off.
Step 4: Coat Those Brows
Gently brush a thin layer onto your brows. Focus on sparse areas, but you can coat the whole brow if you’re feeling extra. Just avoid dripping — you don’t want oil sliding into your eyes.
Step 5: Leave It On
You can either leave it on for a few hours during the day or overnight, depending on your routine. Either way, consistency is key.
Step 6: Wash It Off
In the morning (or after a few hours), wash your face with warm water and a gentle cleanser to remove the oil.
Important thing ….. Watch for Irritation.
If the skin around your brows starts getting red, itchy, or irritated, stop using the oil. Castor oil is powerful, but it’s not for everyone.
For Your Lashes
Lashes need love too! Castor oil’s moisturizing magic can help keep your lashes soft and protected, though it’s important to be super careful — no one wants oil in their eyes.
Step 1: Patch Test (Yes, Even for Lashes)
Because the skin around your eyes is extra delicate, do a patch test first. If your skin’s happy, you’re good to go.
Step 2: Clean Your Lashes
Start with clean, dry lashes — no leftover mascara or eyeliner.
Step 3: Apply with a Light Hand
Use a clean lash brush (a washed mascara wand works great) or a fine liner brush. Dip it into a tiny bit of castor oil, and let the excess drip off.
Step 4: Gently Coat Your Lashes
Apply the oil to your top and bottom lashes, just like mascara. Focus on the lash line and gently brush it through.
Be extra careful not to get oil in your eyes. If it happens, rinse with clean water right away.
Step 5: Let It Work then Wash Off
You can leave the oil on for a few hours or overnight if you like. Just make sure to wash it off before applying any makeup.
When you’re ready to remove it, use warm water and a gentle cleanser. Don’t scrub — just rinse and pat dry.
Be careful ….. Stop If It Irritates
If you notice any irritation (redness, itching, watering eyes), stop using castor oil near your eyes. Not every beauty trick works for everyone — and that’s totally okay.
Side Effects to Watch For
Some of the side effects to be careful of:
Too Much Can Backfire
Castor oil is super thick and sticky, and that’s part of why it’s so hard to wash out. If you layer it on too heavy or leave it in too long, your hair could end up tangled or even matted.
There’s even a rare condition called acute hair felting, where hair gets so knotted and stiff that the only fix is cutting it all off. It’s rare, but it’s a good reminder that with castor oil, less is definitely more.
Your Skin Might Not Love It
Even though castor oil works wonders for some, it’s not for everyone. If you’ve got sensitive skin, or if you’re trying it on your scalp, brows, or lashes for the first time, always do a patch test. A little redness, itching, or irritation is your sign to skip it.
It Can Get Messy
One thing no one talks about enough — castor oil stains. Your clothes, pillowcases, and towels are all fair game if you’re not careful. If you’re doing a hair treatment, it’s smart to wrap your hair in an old t-shirt, use a shower cap, or sleep on a pillowcase you don’t care about.
Be Careful What You Put in Your Body
Even though castor oil has been used as a laxative in the past, it’s risky to ingest it. It can cause all kinds of problems, from severe stomach cramps and diarrhea to dizziness, fainting, nausea — even hallucinations. In some cases, people experience shortness of breath, chest pain, skin rashes, or throat tightness. Bottom line? Keep castor oil out of your mouth unless a doctor specifically tells you otherwise.
It Doesn’t Last Forever
Just like any other oil, castor oil has a shelf life. Once you open the bottle, the oil starts breaking down, and after about a year, it can go rancid. If the smell turns weird or the texture feels off, it’s time to toss it.
Hair Loss Isn’t Always a Hair Product Problem
One last important thing — if you’re noticing a lot of shedding or thinning, castor oil probably isn’t the whole solution. Sometimes hair loss is linked to health issues, stress, or even medications. Checking in with a doctor can help you figure out what’s really going on — because even the best oils can only do so much.
Also read: What Does Hyaluronic Acid Do for Hair? — you might know it as a skincare hero, but wait until you see how it can work wonders for your hair.
Cold-Pressed vs. Jamaican Black Castor Oil: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever shopped for castor oil, you’ve probably seen cold-pressed and Jamaican black castor oil sitting side by side. So, what’s the deal?
- Cold-pressed castor oil is made without heat or harsh chemicals, which helps it hold onto more nutrients — this makes it the go-to choice for high-quality oil.
- Jamaican black castor oil comes from roasted castor beans — the ash from the roasting process ends up in the oil, giving it a darker color and earthier smell. Many people with thicker, coarser, or drier hair love it because it’s extra rich and sealing.
Conclusion: Does Castor Oil Grow Hair?
There’s no solid scientific proof that castor oil directly helps hair grow, no matter how many viral videos or glowing testimonials you see online. But that doesn’t mean it’s useless — not even close.
What castor oil does really well is keep your hair hydrated, seal in moisture, and protect strands from breakage. And when your hair stays healthy and strong, it naturally holds onto length better.
Sources:
American Academy of Dermatology | Hair loss: Diagnosis and treatment
USE OF CASTOR OIL FOR HAIR GROWTH. Is it beneficial?Know From Expert-Dr.Aruna Prasad|Doctors’ Circle
PubMed | Coconut, Castor, and Argan Oil for Hair in Skin of Color Patients: A Systematic Review
PubMed | Castor Oil
Cleveland Clinic | Castor Oil Benefits