Summary: 🌼 Quick Look: Hydrate & Heal.
💟 Benefits: Castor oil is rich in fatty acids that enhance smoothness and softness when applied to facial skin. It contains antioxidants that fight free radicals, prevent wrinkles, reduce puffiness, moisturize, soothe sunburn, fight dry lips, and promote overall skin health. Its comedogenic rating is 1.
✅ The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of castor oil make it useful in reducing acne.
✅ May help reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
✅ Stimulates collagen production and prevents wrinkles.
✅ High concentrations of fatty acids and vitamins moisturize and soften skin.
✅ Ricinoleic acid can inhibit growth in the bacteria that cause acne.
✅ Reduces hyperpigmentation and scars.
💜 Studies show that castor oil's ricinoleic acid reduces swelling and pain caused by inflammation. Research suggests that, when applied to the skin, castor oil may reduce arthritis symptoms more effectively than prescription topical treatments.
🌿 Treatments: Ideal for anti-aging, dry skin, and hyperpigmentation.
🌻 Best used as: Serum.
💐 Best combined with: Rosehip Oil (for regeneration, antioxidants, and scar reduction) and Sunflower Oil (for a lighter feel and increased absorbency).
⚠️ Caution: Castor oil has a low comedogenic rating of 1. While generally considered less likely to clog pores than many other oils, it is still possible it could clog pores for some individuals and may not be recommended for all acne-prone skin types. Start with a low concentration and monitor your skin's reaction.
💲 Approximate cost: $20.00 - $30.00 CAD (for a bottle of Castor Oil; recipe cost will vary based on added oils).
Yields: Approximately 1 ounce (adjust recipe for desired amount) Prep time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon Castor Oil (Ricinus communis Seed Oil)
1 tablespoon Rosehip Oil
1 tablespoon Sunflower Oil
(Optional) 2-3 drops of skin-safe essential oil for added benefits and fragrance (e.g., Frankincense for anti-aging, Lavender for calming - ensure proper dilution).
Equipment:
Small glass bottle with a dropper or airtight container
Small mixing bowl or beaker
Small stirring rod or spoon
Instructions:
Combine Carrier Oils: In your small mixing bowl or beaker, pour in the Rosehip Oil and Sunflower Oil.
Add Castor Oil: Add the Castor Oil to the mixture. Start with the recommended amount and adjust in future batches if needed (some may prefer a slightly higher or lower concentration).
Stir Well: Gently stir the oils together until they are thoroughly combined.
(Optional) Add Essential Oils: If using essential oils, add the drops to the oil mixture and stir gently to incorporate.
Transfer to Bottle: Carefully pour the serum into your clean glass bottle with a dropper or airtight container.
Shake Gently: Gently shake the bottle before each use to ensure the oils are well mixed.
How to Use:
Cleanse Your Face: Start with a clean and dry face.
Dispense a Small Amount: Place 2-4 drops of the serum onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with castor oil.
Warm and Apply: Gently rub your fingertips together to warm the serum slightly.
Massage into Skin: Gently massage the serum onto your face and neck using upward circular motions. Pay extra attention to areas with fine lines, hyperpigmentation, or dryness. Avoid the immediate eye area.
Allow to Absorb: Allow the serum to absorb into your skin for a few minutes before applying your regular moisturizer (if needed).
Use Morning and/or Night: This serum can be used once or twice daily, depending on your skin's needs and tolerance. Start with nighttime use to see how your skin reacts.
Notes:
Start with Low Concentration: Due to the potentially thicker consistency of castor oil, starting with a lower percentage in your serum is recommended, especially if you are new to using it on your face. Adjust the ratio in future batches based on your skin's response.
Listen to Your Skin: Pay attention to how your skin feels. If you notice any irritation or breakouts, reduce the frequency of use or the concentration of castor oil.
Quality of Oils: Use high-quality, cold-pressed carrier oils for the best results.
Patch Test: If you have sensitive skin or are trying essential oils for the first time, perform a patch test on a small area of your skin before applying the serum to your entire face.
Storage: Store your serum in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Use within 6-12 months for best quality.
Adjust for Skin Type:
Very Dry Skin: You might slightly increase the amount of castor oil in your serum.
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Use castor oil sparingly and monitor your skin closely. You might prefer a higher ratio of lighter oils like Sunflower or Grapeseed oil in your blend.
