Castor oil has been around for generations and is likely best known as a laxative. But recently, several TikTok videos have claimed it has skin and hair care benefits, too.
One TikToker says she slathers castor oil on her face every night as a moisturizer and claims it can “help with literally any skin care condition.” Another video says using castor oil on your face can minimize fine lines. TV host Keltie Knight said soaking her hair in castor oil and letting it sit for as long as possible is her “secret to hair growth.” Another video shows a woman smoothing castor oil through her long, dark locks.
So that leads one to wonder: Is castor oil actually good for your skin and hair?
Even though castor oil is a common ingredient in soaps, lotions and other skin care products, there’s little scientific evidence to support its benefits as a single ingredient for your hair and skin, experts say.
But there’s so much anecdotal evidence from people like these TikTokers who believe it could work — so we decided to ask some medical experts about the qualities that have gotten people talking. Let’s dig in and get to the bottom of this.
