Castor Oil: What It Is and How to Use It

Castor oil is pressed from the seeds of the castor plant, Ricinus communis. It is one of the thickest plant oils you can buy.

Why is castor oil so thick?

Most of castor oil is ricinoleic acid, an unusual fatty acid that makes the oil dense and slow to pour. It also gives castor oil its glossy look.

How to use castor oil on hair

Castor oil coats the hair for a smooth, glossy look. It can feel heavy on its own and takes more washing out than lighter oils, so start with a very small amount on the ends.

How to use castor oil on skin

On its own, castor oil feels thick and sticky on skin. Warm a small amount between your palms and press it onto damp skin, or mix it with a lighter oil so that it spreads more easily. Keep it away from your eyes.

Why castor oil is so often blended

Few people want to wear pure castor oil every day, but its gloss is hard to get from lighter oils. Blending gives you the shine without the weight. Jojoba and macadamia are common partners because they feel so much lighter.

Castor oil in SEVN

Castor gives the SEVN blend its weight and shine, and the lighter oils balance it. The result spreads far more easily than castor oil alone. Read how the oils work together in our guide to natural oil blends.

Shop SEVN Signature Nourishing Oil or try the 20 ml sample for £5.