Scientifically named Ricinus Communis, castor oil has a long rich history going all the way back to ancient Egypt. Along with its long legacy in hair care, castor oil has also been used in fragrances, skincare products, inks, dyes, etc. This versatile oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, which is known for moisturizing your scalp and also supporting collagen production. Here are some of the benefits your hair can gain from castor oil.
Full Nourishment
Castor oil is rich in essential health ingredients like vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids. With topical application, these ingredients nourish the hair root and make your hair smooth, hydrated, and glossy. The oil also effectively nourishes both the scalp and hair follicles.
Fighting Hair Loss
Cold-pressed castor oil is a common remedy for hair loss and maintaining scalp health. That’s why it’s often mentioned as a cure for alopecia, though arguably. But the undeniable fact is that the antioxidants and ricinoleic acid of castor oil support high collagen production and also improve the hair follicles’ health, helping them to keep a better hold on the scalp.
Cleansing
The antimicrobial properties make castor oil vital for scalp and hair health. These properties specifically reduce the signs and effects of acute and chronic scalp conditions, such as irritation-causing bacteria and fungal infections. By fighting off these potential irritants, castor oil reduces itching and tugging at the scalp, resulting in reduced hair loss.
Reducing Product Buildup
All hair products come with a risk of damaging residue buildup on the scalp, strands, and around the follicles. Castor oil comes in handy here, as it has a surprising ability to improve the absorption of other hair products. As a dual benefit, it helps your products, treatments, masks, and oils work more effectively and also decreases potential irritation from buildup.
Protecting Against Split Ends and Breakage
The ricinoleic acid of castor oil is useful in enhanced hair treatment, as it helps in boosting necessary blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles, making them grow healthier and stronger. Also, castor oil is a rich humectant, which is a water-absorbing substance. So it’s useful for improving and retaining the moisture in your hair.
Reducing Flaking
Several things can cause dandruff on your scalp. But often, dandruff and flaking develop due to bacteria or fungal infections, which irritate the scalp, making it itchy. Castor oil effectively prevents the condition by reducing the feeling of a dry scalp and the development of flaking-causing fungal infections on the scalp.