For ages now, castor oil has been used as a remedy to treat many scalp issues. It is derived from the seeds of the castor plant, which may help treat and control dandruff. Also, this oil contains antifungal properties that can effectively manage any associated scalp infections. Scroll down to know the multiple benefits of using this multi-purpose vegetable oil to treat dandruff. You will also come across the various ways of using castor oil for dandruff. Dandruff is usually triggered by seborrheic dermatitis that affects the areas rich in sebaceous glands. Seborrheic dermatitis is characterized by skin inflammation, redness, and flakes (4). If your scalp is infected with the Malassezia fungus, you may experience a dry and flaky scalp (5). Also, having dry skin causes white flakes, which, in turn, may result in dandruff (6). Anecdotal evidence suggests that the omega-9 fatty acids in the castor oil may help moisturize your hair and balance your scalp pH. The oil also reduces scalp dryness and itchiness. It balances oil secretion as well and may reduce dandruff. Isn’t it fascinating to know that a household oil can help solve a major scalp issue? In the following section, we have listed a few of the DIY castor oil treatments that help treat dandruff.
Best Ways To Use Castor Oil For Treating Dandruff
1. Castor Oil, Aloe Vera Gel, And Tea Tree Oil
Castor and tea tree oils help fight against dandruff (7). Aloe vera gel acts as a soothing agent and reduces scalp itchiness (8). What You Need
Castor oil, 1 ½ tablespoons Aloe vera gel, 3 tablespoons Tea tree oil, 2 to 3 drops
Process
2. Castor Oil, Almond Oil, And Rosemary Oil
Like castor oil, almond oil also helps prevent dandruff by moisturizing your scalp. Almond oil is rich in vitamin E, which may help moisturize your hair (9), (10). Rosemary oil may exhibit antifungal activity against dandruff (11). What You Need
Castor oil, 1 tablespoon Almond oil, 1 tablespoon Rosemary oil, 2 to 3 drops
Process
3. Castor Oil And Ginger Juice
Ginger juice may seem like a stinky ingredient to put on your hair, but it can do a world of good to your hair. Anecdotal evidence suggests that ginger juice can clear clogged pores and cleanse away dandruff, dirt, and product buildup. What You Need
Castor oil, 2 tablespoons Ginger juice, 2 tablespoons
Process
4. Castor Oil And Argan Oil
Using argan oil on your head can help get rid of your dandruff and give you softer hair. The moisturizing properties of argan oil may help treat dandruff, tame down the frizz, and make your hair look shinier. However, more research is needed in this regard. What You Need
Castor oil, 2 tablespoons Argan oil, 1 tablespoon
Process
5. Castor Oil, Coconut Oil, And Egg
Castor and coconut oils work synergistically well to deep condition your scalp. Coconut oil has a high affinity for hair proteins, and can easily penetrate the hair shaft (12). Its penetrating powers may get the required nutrients into your hair shaft, preventing a dry scalp, hair loss, and dandruff. Research shows that the application of coconut oil may prevent severe dandruff (13). The protein from the egg can nourish your hair and make it soft and shiny (14). What You Need
Castor oil, 1 tablespoon Coconut oil, 1 tablespoon Egg, 1
Process
6. Castor Oil And Olive Oil
Olive oil is a renowned natural hair conditioner (15). In contrast to conventional store-bought conditioners that may potentially congest and irritate your scalp, olive oil effectively moisturizes a dry scalp and alleviates flakiness. What You Need
2 tablespoons of castor oil 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Process Rayna, a blogger, emphasizes the importance of natural oils in hair care, highlighting their benefits for moisturizing, conditioning, and promoting hair health. In one of her blog posts, she writes, “I use this [castor] oil when massaging my daughter’s edges. I also use this on my ends to seal in moisture as it is so thick, it is amazing for the edges and ends of my hair (i).” This is how you can use castor oil for treating dandruff. It is essential to choose the right castor oil. In the following section, we have listed the parameters you can consider for choosing the right castor oil.
How To Choose The Right Castor Oil?
Ensure you choose a cold-pressedi Extraction of oil or juice using a hydraulic press. Some common cold-pressed oils are coconut oil, olive oil, and sunflower oil. castor oil. Check for parameters like purity and grade. Purchase from authorized sellers. Furthermore, ensure the oil is free from hexane (a chemical solvent used to extract oil from the seeds).
Oil Purity
Always look for 100% pure castor oil free of chemicals, toxins, artificial ingredients, fragrances, flavorants, and alcohol. These ingredients may dry your scalp out and even irritate it.
Oil Grade
Castor oil is available in two grades AA standard or pale-pressed, and imported. The pale-pressed variant is also known as virgin oil and is processed by pressing the seeds. It is further cold-pressed to get high-quality refined castor oil. Whereas the imported oil variant is prepared by mixing the first batch of pressed seeds with the next batch of seeds.
Oil Certification
It is another important parameter while choosing castor oil. Always look for that oil with the USDA Certified Organic label. It signifies the oil does not contain any synthetic ingredients.
Precautions
Limited research is available on the adverse effects of castor oil. But some anecdotal evidence suggests that castor oil is generally safe for dandruff treatment. However, you could experience some side effects if you are allergic to it (skin redness, itching, swelling, and a burning sensation). Furthermore, it may cause acute hair feltingi A rare scalp hair disorder that causes densely tangled hair. It is a common side effect of using castor oil. if not mixed with carrier oils (1). Do a patch test by applying a little castor oil to your forearm. Leave it on for 24 hours to check if you are allergic to it. Can I leave castor oil overnight? Yes, you can leave castor oil in your hair overnight to enhance your hair growth and make your hair stronger and healthier. Do you put castor oil on wet or dry hair? It does not matter if your hair is damp or dry as long as you apply castor oil to clean hair. Nevertheless, damp hair tends to absorb oils better. Does castor oil regrow hair? Castor oil has not been proven to have any significant effect on hair growth. Some people claim that applying castor oil once a week can promote growth that is 3 to 5 times the average rate. However, there is no scientific proof to back this up. Does castor oil darken hair? Anecdotal evidence suggests that using castor oil regularly can make your hair appear darker. It is also regarded as a fantastic method of reducing the rate of premature graying. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this.
Illustration: Best Ways To Use Castor Oil For Treating Dandruff
Embark on a journey to dandruff-free hair with this video on castor oil. Click on it to discover its nourishing properties and scalp benefits for a healthier, flake-free mane.
