Is Castor Oil Good for Your Face? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

If you’re a skincare minimalist or simply love a good multi-tasker castor oil might just earn a place in your beauty cabinet. Long praised for its haircare benefits and deep roots in traditional practices, this thick, plant-based oil is now trending as a facial moisturizer with serious hydrating and anti-inflammatory perks. But before you slather it on, there are a few things you should know.

We spoke with board-certified dermatologists to break down exactly how castor oil works, who should (and shouldn’t) use it, and how to safely add it to your skincare routine.

What is castor oil?

Castor oil is a thick, vegetable-derived oil made from the cold-pressed seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis), which grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It’s rich in fatty acids especially ricinoleic acid and has been used in everything from traditional Ayurvedic beauty rituals to modern haircare products.

“It’s commonly used to condition the scalp and promote hair growth, but its rich emollient properties also make it beneficial for skin,” says dermatologist Dr. Marie Hayag, founder of Fifth Avenue Aesthetics.

Skin benefits of castor oil

1. Deeply hydrates dry skin
Castor oil’s thick, occlusive texture makes it ideal for sealing in moisture especially during colder months. It acts as a barrier, helping to prevent water loss and leaving skin soft and supple.

2. Strengthens the skin barrier
Because it’s packed with fatty acids, castor oil reinforces the skin’s natural barrier, which protects against environmental stressors and irritation. “The ricinoleic acid helps soothe dry, compromised skin,” says Dr. Erum Ilyas, board-certified dermatologist and founder of AmberNoon.

3. Offers anti-inflammatory benefits
Ricinoleic acid has been shown to reduce inflammation, making castor oil potentially helpful for calming redness and soothing irritated skin.

4. Provides antibacterial and antimicrobial properties
Castor oil may help reduce acne-causing bacteria on the skin, although experts caution that its thickness can be problematic for certain skin types (more on that below).

5. Improves skin texture over time
With consistent use, castor oil may boost skin elasticity, reduce rough patches, and promote a radiant, smoother-looking complexion.

Can you put castor oil on your face?

Yes but with caution. “Castor oil can be beneficial for facial skin, especially if you’re dealing with dryness or flakiness,” says Dr. Ilyas. However, because of its density, it may clog pores or exacerbate breakouts, especially in oily or acne-prone skin types.

To reduce the risk of clogged pores, dermatologists recommend:

• Diluting castor oil with a lighter carrier oil, like jojoba or sweet almond

• Using castor oil as a targeted treatment on dry patches rather than an all-over moisturizer

• Choosing moisturizers that contain castor oil in smaller, skin-friendly concentrations

How to use castor oil in your skincare routine

1. Spot treatment for dry areas
Instead of applying castor oil all over your face, try dabbing a small amount onto rough patches like around the nose or lips especially in winter.

2. Slugging alternative
Want the benefits of slugging without using petroleum jelly? Castor oil can be a plant-based alternative to lock in hydration overnight.

3. As part of a moisturizing product
Look for face creams or serums formulated with castor oil these are less likely to clog pores and are balanced with other skin-nourishing ingredients.

4. Lip and cuticle care
Castor oil’s emollient properties make it an excellent natural balm for dry lips or cracked cuticles.

Potential risks of castor oil for skin

Despite its many benefits, castor oil isn’t for everyone. The most common side effects include:

• Breakouts: Due to its heavy consistency, it can trap dirt or bacteria, especially if not properly cleansed before use.

• Allergic reactions: “Some people may experience itching, redness, or irritation,” says Dr. Hayag. She recommends patch testing on a small area of skin before applying it to your face.

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, proceed carefully or better yet, consult your dermatologist before using raw castor oil.

The bottom line

Castor oil is a powerful natural moisturizer loaded with fatty acids and anti-inflammatory compounds. When used correctly, it can help soothe dry skin, strengthen the skin barrier, and promote a smoother texture. But because it’s so thick, it’s not ideal for everyone especially those with sensitive or breakout-prone skin.

To play it safe, look for skincare products that incorporate castor oil rather than applying it raw, and always patch test first. If it works for your skin type, castor oil could become your go-to for deep, plant-powered hydration.

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