Updated for 2024
Castor oil has been used for centuries, but it’s still one of the most versatile natural products you can have in your home. From soothing dry skin and lips to promoting hair growth and even replacing petroleum-based balms, castor oil is making a comeback in the world of clean beauty and natural skin care.
Derived from the seeds of the castor plant, castor oil is packed with essential fatty acids and nutrients that can provide a range of benefits for your skin, hair, and overall well-being.
I often get asked about the best ways to use castor oil, so I’ve put together this guide to answer the most common questions.
Can I use castor oil on my lips?
Yes! Castor oil is deeply moisturising and protective, making it a great option for dry, chapped lips.
💡 Pro tip: Apply a small amount before bed and wake up with softer, hydrated lips. You can also use it under lipstick for added moisture.
👉 Looking for a ready-made option? Try Biome’s CastorGuard—a clean, petroleum-free alternative for lips, skin, and more. Find all our natural lip balms here
Is castor oil safe for pets?
No—castor oil should never be given to cats or dogs. While it has benefits for humans, it can be toxic to pets if ingested. If you're looking for natural pet care options, always check with your vet first.
Can castor oil help with warts?
Many people swear by castor oil for warts because of its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Applying it daily may help soften the skin and encourage healing, but results vary. If a wart persists, it’s best to see a healthcare professional.
Can I use castor oil on oily hair?
Surprisingly, yes! While it’s an oil, castor oil actually helps balance scalp oil production rather than making hair greasier.
How to use it for oily hair:
1️⃣ Mix a few drops of castor oil with a lighter oil like jojoba or almond oil.
2️⃣ Massage into the scalp and leave it for a few hours (or overnight).
3️⃣ Shampoo well to remove excess oil.
Regular use can nourish the scalp, regulate oiliness, and promote healthier hair growth.
👉 Biome stocks a range of hair serums and oils with castor oil
Does castor oil really help grow lashes & brows?
Many people use castor oil to strengthen lashes and encourage eyebrow growth. While there’s no scientific proof it speeds up hair growth, its rich fatty acids nourish and condition hair, preventing breakage.
How to apply it:
✔️ Use a clean mascara wand or cotton bud to lightly coat lashes and brows before bed.
✔️ Be careful not to get it in your eyes.
✔️ With regular use, brows and lashes may appear fuller and healthier.
👉 Want an easy solution? Try Noosa Basics Lash & Brow Revitaliser.
Is castor oil good for skin?
Absolutely. Castor oil is deeply hydrating and packed with ricinoleic acid, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used for:
✔️ Moisturising dry skin
✔️ Soothing irritation and redness
✔️ Helping with acne (for some skin types, but always patch test first!)
📌 Castor Oil Packs are also gaining popularity for detox and wellness benefits—find out more about them here.
👉 For a ready-to-use castor oil balm, try CastorGuard—it’s clean, effective, and free from petroleum and synthetic fillers.
How do I use castor oil for hair growth?
Castor oil has long been used to strengthen hair and nourish the scalp, promoting healthier growth. Here’s how to use it effectively:
1️⃣ Mix with a carrier oil (coconut, argan, or olive oil work well).
2️⃣ Massage into the scalp for a few minutes to stimulate blood flow.
3️⃣ Leave it on for 2+ hours or overnight for deep nourishment.
4️⃣ Shampoo twice to remove excess oil.
5️⃣ Repeat 1-2 times per week for best results.
👉 Learn how to make your own rosemary oil for hair growth.
Can castor oil help with acne?
It depends on your skin type. Castor oil has antibacterial properties, but it’s also quite thick, which may clog pores in some people.
💡 If you want to try it:
✔️ Mix it with a lighter oil (like jojoba or hemp seed oil).
✔️ Apply a small amount before bed and rinse in the morning.
✔️ Always do a patch test first to see how your skin reacts.
Caution: important to note that castor oil is very strong and may cause irritation for some people. Before using it on your face, you should test a small amount on another part of your skin to see if you are reactive to the oil.
Practical uses for castor oil around the home
Beyond skincare, castor oil is a handy household staple. Here are some clever ways to use it:
🧼 Remove sticky residue – Works like eucalyptus oil to get rid of labels and adhesive gunk.
🚪 Fix squeaky hinges – A natural alternative to WD-40.
🛋️ Condition leather – Keeps shoes, bags, and furniture soft and supple.
🐜 Repel pests – Helps deter ants and some garden pests.
🌱 Boost plant health – A teaspoon in a litre of water can nourish indoor plants.
Final thoughts
Castor oil is a simple, affordable, and natural way to care for your skin, hair, and home—without relying on synthetic or petroleum-based products.
Whether you’re using it for hydration, hair growth, or as a household essential, this plant-based powerhouse has plenty to offer. Just remember to patch test first if you're using it on your skin.
🌿 Try Castor Oil for Yourself! Browse our Castor Oil Collection for clean, sustainable castor oil-based products, including CastorGuard—a multi-purpose balm designed for dry lips, sensitive skin, and more.
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