Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil

Best

Plant extracts

Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil at a glance

  • Oil derived from the castor bean, which is noted as a rich source of skin-beneficial fatty acids
  • Forms a solid, water-binding film when dry
  • Enhances the absorption of other cosmetic ingredients
  • Known for maintaining its fluidity at extremely high and very low temperatures

Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil description

_Ricinus communis_ (castor) seed oil is a vegetable oil derived from the castor bean, which is noted as a rich source of skin-beneficial fatty acids. It is used in skin care formulations as an emollient, though its unique property is that once it dries it forms a solid film that can have water-binding properties. It can also enhance the absorption of other cosmetic ingredients. Depending on the other ingredients combined with in a formulation, _Ricinus communis_ (castor) seed oil can have a slightly sticky feel on skin. It is known for maintaining its fluidity at extremely high and very low temperatures. Its unique sensory profile makes it popular for use in lip products. _Ricinus communis_ (castor) seed oil is rarely associated with skin sensitivity and has been deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. Their 2007 report looked at personal care products using up to 81% of _Ricinus communis_ (castor) seed oil. The unique chemical composition of castor oil makes it a stable vegetable oil and gives it a heavier texture than other vegetable oils. Despite what you may have heard or read online, there is no substantiated research to prove that castor oil can stimulate hair growth.

Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil references

  • CosmeticsInfo.org, Accessed February 2022, ePublication
  • https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredients/ricinus-communis-castor-seed-oil/
  • Green and Sustainable Chemistry, November 2015, pages 154-163
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2007, pages 31-77
  • Chemistry of Natural Compounds, October 2004, pages 413-415
  • https://www.deepdyve.com/lp/springer-journals/lipids-of-ricinus-communis-seeds-spWd1oo4PO?articleList=%2Fsearch%3Fquery%3DRicinus%2Bcommunis%2B%2528castor%2529%2Bseed%2Boil

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.