Age-Old Hair Remedy: Castor Oil

Everyone  wants longer, healthier hair- there isn’t a single client who sits in my chair that doesn’t. However, for most, the exposure to chemicals and many years of heat styling has made it so that attaining this goal is no easy task. There is one age-old remedy that is said to provide a solution and (surprise!) it’s found in your bathroom drawers: castor oil! Years ago it was recommended to me by my eyebrow lady as a way to help grow them out, so I decided to do a little research.

Castor oil has natural antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, a high level of Vitamin E, Omega 6 and 9 fatty acids (the beneficial kind), minerals, and proteins; But what makes it so beneficial for hair and skin is that it is extremely high in ricinoleic acid. Ricinoleic acid is known to balance the pH of the scalp which, in turn, help to replenish its natural oils which are compromised due to heat-styling and chemical-ridden products. Castor oil is an amazing remedy for dandruff, provides moisture for the hair, prevents split ends, and makes hair more luxurious and shinier.

Castor oil has a thick consistency so it’s not something that you are going to put into your hair and hit the town. My recommendation is to wait until it is time to wash your hair and use it as a mask by applying the oil to your scalp with your fingers using a circular motion. After you have finished applying the oil, wrap your hair in a warm towel (you can also use a shower cap) and leave it on overnight. If you can’t leave it on for that long of a time, two to eight hours is sufficient. Repeat this process once a week until you have reached your desired result.

Let me know how it goes in the comments below.

Renee Taglia is located in a Beverly Hills California. Contact her here for a consultation on how to discover (and keep) your perfect color.