Castor oil is a versatile vegetable oil that has been around for thousands of years. With its moisturizing properties and high nutrient content, it is a popular choice as a hair product. In this article, we will look at how to use castor oil for curly hair.
Brimming with omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin E, and minerals, castor oil can be used to boost and tame curly hair. Combined with ginger, castor oil can be used to combat curl loss. Mixed with aloe vera, castor oil can combat dandruff. To boost curl growth, combine castor oil, almond oil, and rosemary oil.
Why Is Castor Oil Good For Curly Hair?
Castor oil has a whole host of benefits that nourish and replenish curly locks.
Moisturizes
Castor oil is a natural moisturizer that soothes a dry and itchy scalp. It also helps to unblock pores which helps boost curl growth.
Stops Hair Loss
Bursting with omega-9 and ricinoleic acid, castor oil can help prevent hair loss. It boosts blood flow around the scalp which provides nourishment for the roots of the hair and hair follicles.
Prevents Frizz
Castor oil acts as an emollient to smooth and calm hair prone to frizz. It also conditions to add extra softness.
Combats Dandruff
Chronic dandruff can lead to your curls looking thinner and more lackluster. The ricinoleic acid content in castor oil means it has anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties.
These properties help keep dandruff under control…and give you back those bouncy curls!
Nourishes Dry Hair
When hair is dry, it can be more susceptible to damage, leading to split ends. The fatty acids in castor oil mean it can lock in moisture, thus keeping hair prone to dryness softer, smoother, and healthier.
How Often Should I Use Castor Oil?
Castor oil only needs to be applied to curly hair once or twice a week, at most.
If you use it more often than this (or use large amounts of it at one time), you will notice your curls look and feel heavy and greasy.
Also Read: How To Use Castor Oil For Protein Sensitive Hair
How To Use Castor Oil On Curly Hair
Depending on what you are looking for exactly, how you use castor oil and what you mix it with may vary.
Dandruff Removal
This method will remove dandruff from your curls.
You will need:
- Two Cups of Castor Oil
- Two tablespoons of tea tree oil
- Two tablespoons of aloe vera
- Bowl
- Spoon
- Shampoo
- Shower cap
Instructions
1.Add two tablespoons of aloe vera and two tablespoons of tea tree oil to a mixing bowl. Then add two cups of castor oil. Stir the ingredients for a minute or so.
2.Prior to using this hair mask, give your hair a thorough wash with a sulfate-free shampoo.
3. Next, apply the mask so it covers all of your hair. Start from the scalp and work towards the ends.
4. Pop a shower cap on and leave this application for 30-40 minutes.
5. Shampoo and dry as usual.
Strengthening Treatment
Add strength to curly hair and prevent curl loss with the nutritional benefits of castor oil and ginger.
You will need:
- Two cups of castor oil
- One tablespoon of fresh ginger juice
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Shower cap or towel
Instructions
1.Add two cups of castor oil with one tablespoon of fresh ginger juice to a bowl and stir well.
2.Massage the mixture all over your hair and scalp.
3.Cover with a shower cap or towel.
4.Leave to work for 30-40 minutes, then rinse with shampoo and dry as normal.
Promote Curl Growth
This recipe nourishes the roots of the hair and encourages curl growth.
You will need:
- Castor oil
- Almond oil
- Rosemary oil
- Large bowl
- Small bowl
- Tablespoon
- Shower cap
- Hot water
- Shampoo
Instructions
1.Add 1-2 cups of castor oil to the small bowl with 4 tablespoons of almond oil.
2. Put some warm water into the larger bowl then place the small bowl into the larger bowl to warm the oil.
3.When the oils have warmed, add 2-3 drops of rosemary oil and mix thoroughly.
4. Divide your hair into 4 equal sections and apply the mixture to your scalp then work it down into your curls.
5. Cover with the shower cap and leave overnight.
6. Shampoo the mixture out in the morning.
Also Read: How Long Does Castor Oil Last (And How To Store)
As A Sealant
Castor oil can be used as a sealant to seal the moisture within the strands of hair. This stops hair from becoming too dry and brittle and sustaining damage.
You will need:
- Castor oil
- Conditioner
Instructions
- Moisturize your hair using water or a water-based product.
- Apply a dime sized amount of castor oil and work through the hair.
What should I Be Aware Of When Using Castor Oil For Hair?
While castor has many benefits for hair, some users have a bad experience with it due to its thick and viscous consistency. It can leave hair feeling excessively sticky and greasy.
To combat this, we have put together a few suggestions:
Moisturize
Make sure your hair is full of moisture- that is, make sure it is wet. This helps the castor oil to seal the moisture in.
Less Is More
Avoid being too heavy-handed when it comes to applying castor oil. You only need to apply a little.
Applying too much will result in hair that feels heavy and appears limp. Some people choose to only use the oil on the edges of their hair.
Mix It Up
As mentioned, castor oil has quite a thick sticky texture. To lighten it up, you can mix it with other oils such as olive oil and rosemary oil. This mixture is not only good for hair, but it smells great too!
Allergies
Castor oil is generally quite safe to use, but it is good to be aware of the fact that it can be an irritant. Make sure you do a patch test at least 24 hours before you use it all over your scalp.
Dermatologist Dr Lily Talakoub urges caution, especially if leaving castor oil in your hair overnight- if it transfers onto your pillowcase and then finds its way onto your face this can lead to breakouts as it clogs pores.
So, there you have it. Now you can enjoy your beautiful curls with the help of a little castor oil once or twice a week, to manage them and keep them full of vitality.
Disclaimer: This site is not intended to provide professional or medical advice. All of the content on LovedByCurls.com is for informational purposes only. All advice should be followed at your own discretion. Ingredients may change at any time so always check the product label before using. Check our full disclaimer policy here.
