Castor oil for hair: 5 truths and myths you need to know

Μια νεαρή γυναίκα απλώνει μια σταγόνα καστορέλαιο από μια πιπέτα στα μαλλιά της, από κοντά.

Castor oil has attained almost mythical proportions when we talk about natural hair treatments.
When it comes to miracle oils that promise stronger, longer, and healthier hair, castor oil often steals the show. But how much of what we hear is true and how much is… just wishful thinking?

It's time to clear things up!

Μπουκάλι καστορέλαιο με φρούτα, σπόρους και φύλλο καστορέλαιου. Φυτικό έλαιο Ricinus Communis.
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Myth #1: Castor oil makes hair grow much faster.

Truth: Castor oil does not change the natural rate of hair growth.

Hair growth is determined by genes, diet, and overall health — not external applications.
However, the ricinoleic acid contained in castor oil has anti-inflammatory effects and improves scalp health.
A healthy scalp means less inflammation and therefore better conditions for healthy hair.

Conclusion: Castor oil helps indirectly on the quality of development, not its speed.

Myth #2: Castor oil can treat hair loss.

Truth: There is no scientific evidence that castor oil reverses hair loss.

If hair loss is due to hormonal or genetic reasons (e.g. androgenetic alopecia), castor oil can't stop her.
What it can do is:

  • Moisturize the scalp
  • Protect existing hair from breakage
  • Improve their overall appearance

Tip: Combine castor oil with a head massage for better microcirculation.

Myth #3: More castor oil = better results.

Truth: Excessive use of castor oil can have the following effects: opposite result.

Castor oil is very viscous.
Excessive amounts can:

  • Makes hair heavy
  • To clog the pores of the scalp
  • It may even cause itching or irritation.

The right way:

  • Dilute the castor oil with light oils (e.g. coconut or jojoba)
  • We use a maximum of 1-2 tablespoons for the entire scalp.
  • Rinse well with mild shampoo.
Ο κοσμητολόγος χύνει καστορελαιο για τα μαλλιά στο κεφάλι της γυναίκας.
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Myth #4: Castor oil instantly makes hair shinier and stronger.

Truth: Castor oil results take time systematic use and patience.

You may feel immediate softness due to the oily texture, but:

  • For improvement in the strength and overall texture of the hair, use is required for at least 6-8 weeks.

Program:
Apply once a week as a mask before shampooing + moisturize ends 2 times/week.

Myth #5: Castor oil is ideal for all hair types.

Truth: On very fine or oily hair, castor oil can be very heavy.

It is ideal for:

  • Dry, frizzy or damaged hair
  • Eyebrows and eyelashes (in small quantities)

For oily or very fine hair:

  • Better to use locally only at the edges.
  • Or to be followed diluted application and a very good rinse.

Tip: If you tend to be oily, opt for lighter oils like jojoba.

Νεαρή γυναίκα που εφαρμόζει καστορέλαιο σε κόκκινο γυάλινο μπουκάλι στα μαλλιά.
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How to use castor oil correctly:

  • 1 time a week – Slightly warm castor oil + coconut oil and apply to the roots and lengths, for 1-2 hours before shampooing.
  • 2 times a week – Lightly apply to split ends to protect against split ends.
  • Daily – Apply a small amount to eyebrows or eyelashes with a clean brush.

Castor oil is a wonderful natural tool for hydration, the reinforcement and the protection of hair.
It is not miraculous, nor does it promise rapid growth, but with patience and proper use, can give visibly healthier, stronger hair.

Remember: Separate the myth from the truth and give your hair the care it really needs!

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