Castor oil's effectiveness in promoting eyelash growth: A fact-check
Castor oil, a vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the castor oil plant, has been long touted for its potential benefits on hair growth, particularly for eyelashes. However, scientific findings on its effectiveness for eyelash growth and appearance show a mix of anecdotal support but lack strong clinical evidence for actual hair growth stimulation.
One of the key components of castor oil is ricinoleic acid, which makes up approximately 90% of the oil. This compound is believed to moisturize lashes and nourish hair follicles, potentially indirectly supporting healthier lashes that appear fuller and shinier. However, it does not provide proven growth stimulation.
Some studies highlight castor oil’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which may alleviate eyelid conditions like blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction, contributing to healthier lash environments but not necessarily lash growth itself.
When it comes to different types of castor oil, such as cold-pressed and hexane-free, scientific data is very limited or lacking. Most recommendations favor cold-pressed castor oil for its purity and retained nutrients, but no rigorous studies compare effectiveness across types for lashes.
Despite the lack of conclusive scientific proof, users often report improved lash conditioning, shine, and reduced breakage after consistent application over weeks or months, which enhances lash appearance rather than increasing length quantitatively.
It is important to note that castor oil may cause skin irritation in some people, and it is crucial to test it on a small area of skin away from the eyes and face before using it on the eyelashes. Additionally, pregnant women should avoid taking castor oil as it can induce labor.
In contrast, Latisse, a branded eyelash growth product, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for enhancing eyelash growth. Latisse contains bimatoprost and may cause side effects like hyperpigmentation, red eyes, dry or itchy eyes, and potentially a permanent darkening of the iris. People with existing eye conditions should not use Latisse.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends using sterile products for the eyes and following a doctor or ophthalmologist's advice when using products on or near the eyes.
In summary, castor oil's main scientifically supported benefit for eyelashes lies in conditioning and protecting the existing lashes, making them look healthier and shinier—not in proven stimulation of lash growth. No robust clinical trials confirm differences in effectiveness between types of castor oil for eyelashes, so choosing a high-quality, cold-pressed variant might be best to maximize conditioning benefits while minimizing potential irritation.
- The compound ricinoleic acid, making up about 90% of castor oil, is believed to moisturize lashes and nourish hair follicles, contributing to healthier-looking lashes.
- Castor oil's anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties may help alleviate eyelid conditions like blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction, creating a healthier lash environment.
- Despite the limited scientific data comparing different types of castor oil, such as cold-pressed and hexane-free, many recommendations favor cold-pressed castor oil for its purity and retained nutrients.
- Users often report improved lash conditioning, shine, and reduced breakage after consistent application over weeks or months, enhancing lash appearance, but not necessarily increasing length quantitatively.
