Ricinus Communis Seed Oil

Tolerability and safety

Irritation potential

Low

Allergen risk

Low

Pregnancy

Safe

Suitable for

Normal, Dry, Combination, Sensitive

About this ingredient

Castor oil (Ricinus Communis Seed Oil) is a thick viscous oil from castor seeds. 80-90% ricinoleic acid – a monounsaturated fatty acid with a hydroxyl group. The hydroxyl is responsible for the high viscosity, pigment retention, and skin adhesion. Where applied. Lipsticks, glosses, lip balms (30-90% – the base of most classic lipsticks), mascaras, brow products, hair masks, soap. In Spain in most traditional lipsticks from Bourjois, Maybelline to premium. Evidence base. Smith 1984 showed high efficacy of castor oil as an occlusive for lips – reduces transepidermal water loss better than mineral oil. The folk reputation as an 'eyelash growth activator' has no clinical RCTs; the user-described effect is from softening and shine, not actual growth. Safety. CIR confirmed castor oil safety (Final Report 2007). Hypoallergenic. Non-comedogenic in most cases, though at the highest concentrations in face products on acne-prone skin it may trigger comedones. Ricin controversy. Castor seeds contain ricin – one of nature's most toxic proteins. Industrial processing of seeds into oil completely removes ricin: oil is the lipid fraction, ricin is the protein fraction. There is no ricin in culinary or cosmetic oil. Pregnancy and lactation – topically safe. Oral castor oil as a laxative during pregnancy is traditionally used to induce labor and is not recommended before 37-38 weeks. Topically – no restrictions.

Frequently asked questions