Castor Oil For Eyelashes: Natural Nourishment For Luscious Lashes

If your lashes have become thin due to excessive product use, castor oil can help you reclaim your luscious eyelashes. Let’s see how castor oil can do the trick for you. 

Your eyelashes are one of the most striking facial features. Naturally, you would want them thick and long. Sure, mascara can do this bit for you but how long? A few hours, perhaps. Instead of relying on cosmetic products, it’s best to turn to something more long-term that can keep your eyelashes long and thick. Have you ever considered the benefits of castor oil for eyelashes? 

Castor oil is an ordinary drugstore product that can facilitate eyelash growth by providing natural nourishment. Beauty products widely make use of castor oil due to its nutrient-rich properties. Experts have also found its application in the rejuvenation of eyelashes. 

Castor Oil For Eyelashes: Understanding Castor Oil -A Beauty Elixir

Some women are blessed with camera-ready, lush, and fluttery eyelashes and do not have to put in any extra effort to maintain them. But some of us have to turn to supplements and serums to grow eyelashes. They are ridiculously expensive and do not guarantee any results. Does this mean that mascara is the only solution?

One of the top recommendations for eyelash growth is castor oil, which is quite affordable and easily available. Castor oil is rich in vitamin E, amino acids, and essential fatty acids, which makes it ideal for hair growth. The spreading knowledge of its nutritional information has multiplied the use of castor oil for eyelashes and eyebrows and earned it the reputation for being a beauty elixir. 

The main component of castor oil is ricinoleic acid which helps nourish the hair follicles and strengthen the lashes to give you dreamy eyes. Along with other components, it imparts anti-inflammatory properties to castor oil which make it excellent for healing. Once you remove the looming risk of inflammation, your lash growth continues normally. 

Compared to other commercial eyelash growth products, people consider castor oil a natural safe option with a low risk of side effects. It has a low allergenic potential which makes it less likely to cause allergic reactions in even sensitive individuals. Castor oil has a natural origin making it free from harsh chemicals that can cause toxicity. When applied topically, the skin well-receives it, making castor oil suitable for use on delicate areas like eyelashes.

Does Castor Oil Grow Your Eyelashes?

Castor oil is rich in nutrients that have proven highly effective in promoting eyelash growth. Castor oil contains multiple nutritional elements that uniquely support hair health.

The primary active component of castor oil is ricinoleic acid which makes it a hero for healthier lashes. Ricinoleic acid has beneficial anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties which can keep the hair follicles healthy and free from infections that might impede lash growth. A 2015 research (1) discovered that ricinoleic acid was a potential prostaglandin D2 inhibitor and can prove effective in preventing hair loss.

Castor oil has high emollient properties which enable it to deeply moisturize and hydrate the eyelashes, thus, preventing them from becoming dry and brittle. The anti-microbial properties of castor oil prevent infections in the lash follicles that might hinder lash growth. All in all, castor oil ensures better nutrient delivery to the lashes which encourages their enhancement. 

Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, is found in high quantities in castor oil. Antioxidants help protect your hair follicles (2) from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. They help neutralize these free radicals and prevent damage to the hair follicles, thus promoting stronger and healthier lash growth.

Castor oil also comprises minerals that nourish the hair follicles and provide essential building blocks for lash growth. These nutrients make powerful contributions to the structural integrity of the lashes, making them less prone to breakage and providing them with a thicker and fuller appearance.

There are not many scientific studies that support the use of castor oil for eyelash enhancement. Some studies have shown that the nutrients found in castor oil aid in lash growth but research is limited and does not pertain specifically to eyelash growth. Some studies mentioned using castor oil for eyebrows and hair thickness. 

Benefits Of Using Castor Oil On Eyelashes

Castor oil is believed to help women achieve longer and thicker lashes through its various beneficial properties that support eyelash health. This is why many women use castor oil for eyelashes and expect positive results with regular use. 

The primary way in which castor oil proves to be a great addition to your beauty routine is by offering nourishment to your eyelashes. The vitamins and minerals in castor oil can penetrate the hair follicles and provide the necessary building blocks for eyelash growth. 

Castor oil can profoundly moisturize your eyelashes preventing them from becoming brittle and dry. Hydrating your lashes, can keep them intact and allow them to grow stronger without being prematurely damaged. 

Castor oil can support lash thickening and lengthening by strengthening your eyelashes with deep nourishment and hydration. It can prevent water loss and promote eyelash growth. Your eyelashes can lock in moisture after getting nutrients from castor oil and enjoy stronger follicles that do not give in to breakage and dehydration.  

This plant oil can also soothe and calm the skin around your eyelashes giving way to healthier and stronger lashes. By reducing inflammation, it can create a more conducive environment for lash growth.

Castor oil is not an overnight remedy that will give you quick results. You have to be consistent with its use to expect mind-blowing results in a few months. 

How To Use Castor Oil For Eyelashes For Best Results?

Now that you are sure of using castor oil to enhance your eyelash count and growth, you must learn the right ways to apply castor oil for optimized results. Since your eyelashes are located in a very sensitive area in your body, you must be utterly careful of what you apply there and most importantly, how you apply it. 

If you don’t know how to apply castor oil to eyelashes and eyebrows, we have prepared a comprehensive guide for you that encapsulates different methods of using eyelashes safely and effectively. 

Method 1:

Before using castor oil for eyelashes, wash your face and make sure that your eyelids and eyelashes are free from makeup products and dirt. Pat your eyelids dry after using a cleanser. If this is your first time using castor oil, try it on your jawline to identify its compatibility with your skin. 

Use a fresh cotton ball and apply a few drops of castor oil onto it. Start from the root of your eyelashes and move the cotton ball gently across your lash line. Once you are done with the application, remove excess castor oil to prevent your eyes from getting irritated and your glands from getting clogged. 

Repeat this process every night for a few months or until you achieve the desired results.

Method 2

Whether you are a novice or a pro at makeup and skincare, it is very easy to make a serum for your eyelashes. Just grab some Vaseline, coconut oil, almond oil, and castor oil, of course. Mix them with a spoon or your finger and apply them to your lashes using the above method. 

Method 3:

Mix castor oil and olive oil in equal quantities in a bowl or glass bottle to create a nutrient-rich serum for your lashes. Apply this mixture on your eyelashes daily to make them thicker and longer. 

You can make castor oil an essential part of your nighttime skincare routine and notice them evolve from dry and stubby to shiny, thick, and long lashes. 

Side Effects Of Castor Oil For Eyelashes

Generally, castor oil is considered safe for application on the body because it is natural and free of toxins. However, there might be some potential cons and drawbacks to using it on eyelashes.

• Eye Irritation – If you get castor oil accidentally into the eyes, it may result in temporary discomfort and irritation. Although castor oil is generally safe when applied topically, it is essential to be cautious and avoid direct contact with the eyes. If you get it into the eyes, visit an opthalmologist and use the necessary eye drops or ointments to rectify the situation. 
• Allergic Reactions – The chance of you getting an allergic reaction to castor oil is as rare as fire rainbows occurring in the sky. You can get an allergy from castor oil only if you have hyper-sensitive skin. You might get itchiness, swelling, or redness around the eyelids. To prevent any such scenario, apply castor oil to your skin and observe your reaction to it.  
• Clogging Of Oil Glands – Excessive use of castor oil can lead to clogging of the meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing the oily layer of tears that helps prevent tear evaporation. Clogged glands may lead to dry eye symptoms. 
• Milia Formation – If you have been using castor oil for a long period, it can contribute to the development of tiny white cysts called milia. These cysts can trap dead skin cells and obstruct the skin’s surface. 
• Greasy Appearance – Since castor oil is sticky and thick, it may give a heavy and greasy appearance, which some people might find undesirable. 

Safe Application Of Castor Oil For Eyelashes

You remain cautious while using castor oil for eyelashes. Here’s how you can ensure a safe application of castor oil and prevent damage to your lashes, skin, or eyes. 

• Use cold-pressed, high-quality, and hexane-free castor oil.
• Perform a patch test before applying castor oil to your eyelashes (preferably on your scalp hair). 
• Apply the oil sporadically and avoid direct contact with the eyes.
• Use a new cotton swab or clean mascara wand to apply castor oil to the lashes.
• Since castor oil is occlusive, remove any excess oil from the lashes after application to prevent clogging of the glands.
• Apply oil at night so that you can rest your eyelashes and avoid it from getting into your eyes. 

What is the time frame for eyelash regrowth using castor oil?

The speed at which castor oil promotes the growth of eyelashes can vary from person to person. What might be minutes for you may be seconds for someone else. Some women witness visible improvements in the length and thickness of eyelashes after using castor oil for just a few weeks or months whereas others might not experience considerable results at all. 

You must keep in mind that individual experiences with castor oil are dependent on factors such as genetics, tolerability, consistency of the treatment, and overall well-being.

There is no guarantee that it will take you only a few weeks to grow your eyelashes back. It might take you months to get a luscious appearance so you must remember to be patient with the method of growing your eyelashes steadily. Since it is a completely natural method, you will have to give castor oil considerable time and effort. 

Debunking Myths And Addressing Concerns

Although castor oil is a suitable choice for eyelash growth, its benefits and applications are limited. There is limited scientific evidence that supports the use of castor oil for eyelash enhancement. But, what’s true is that castor oil has immense hydrating and moisturizing properties which allows it to impart luster to your lashes (3). 

Contrary to popular opinion, castor oil cannot grow your eyelashes more than their natural length. In fact, nothing can make them grow beyond their genetically predetermined length. You can use eyelash extensions to make them appear longer. 

Another misconception hovering around the use of castor oil for eyelash growth is that it can replace mascara and offer you the same effects. Castor oil is a natural substance and cannot reiterate the cosmetic effects of mascara. The former can add definition to your eyes but cannot add volume or darken the lashes. 

People often ask, “Does castor oil grow eyebrows?” There is not enough clinical backing behind this statement. So you have to apply it on your brows for a few days and look out for results. 

If you are unable to use castor oil for eyelashes due to specific sensitivities, you can use the following alternatives:

• Aloe vera gel
• Coconut oil 
• Olive oil 
• Grapeseed oil 

It’s best to talk to a healthcare professional or board-certified dermatologist If you are experiencing significant eyelash loss or are concerned about the health of your eyelashes to receive personalized medical advice. They are well qualified to provide guidance on appropriate treatments or rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be affecting your lashes.

Selecting The Right Castor Oil Product

Castor oil is a natural oil that has been deemed suitable for eyelash application. It has become a common drugstore product that can redeem your thick and healthy eyelashes. Due to its widespread popularity, castor oil is easily available in your neighborhood pharmacy at a reasonable price. Does this mean that any castor oil brand will work for you? 

Here are top castor oil brand recommendations from experts that might be suitable for eyelash application. 

• Wow Skin Science 100% Pure Castor Oil
• Nat Habit Pure Cold-Pressed Castor Oil
• Dabur 100% Natural Cold Pressed Castor Oil 
• Aroma Magic Organic Castor Oil 
• Mamaearth 100% Cold Pressed Pure Castor Oil
• UrbanBotanics® Cold Pressed Castor Oil for Hair Growth
• Rey Naturals Castor Oil Premium Cold Pressed for Hair & Skin

You can choose the best oil for eyelash growth based on your personal brand preferences and use it to attain luscious eyelash growth.  

Summing Up – Is Castor Oil For Eyelashes Effective? 

Castor oil can prove highly beneficial for your hair growth whether it is your tresses, eyebrows, or eyelashes. This thick, sticky oil is loaded with nutrients that are ideal for eyelash enhancement. 

Although there is little research backing the benefits of castor oil, its nutritional, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties cannot be ignored by anyone who wants luscious lashes. It might not contribute to lash growth directly but it can enhance the appearance of your lashes over consistent use. 

Make sure to apply the best oil for eyelash growth and massage it gently to receive proper nutrition. One does not know for sure, but you might wake up with thick, healthy, and long eyelashes! 

FAQ on Using Castor Oil For Eyelashes