Well, it’s the rule of the universe that every one of us is blessed differently. Beauty is one of the blessings I believe has no definition as everyone is created imperfectly beautiful. However, industry insiders have set some standards of pulchritude that we all sometimes follow and wish to attain.
Long Lashes are one element that defines a woman’s appeal according to the beauty appreciators. While some of us are very fortunate to have them, others wish to achieve their camera-ready eyelashes. For this very purpose, people turn to dietary supplements, lash growth-enhancing serums, injections, eyelash extensions, etc. But do you know the best natural way to attain those flattering falsies? It’s the gold-hued elixir ‘the Castor Oil’- much lauded for its hair & lash growth-enhancing magic. (Get the premium-quality castor oil for eyelashes from The Goodbye Company.)
Castor oil is a plant-based oil extracted from the brown-mottled beans of a soft, woody shrub known as Ricinus communis. The viscous liquid is bland in taste, with a mild nutty scent and sticky consistency. The oil has many forms, all of which come into being due to the distinct extraction and clarification procedures. These varieties include cold-pressed castor oil, hydrogenated castor oil, and Jamaican black castor oil.
All these varieties of Ricinus oil are entirely safe for internal and external applications despite the potent toxicity of the castor beans. This is because the toxic compound ‘ricin’ doesn’t separate in oil. And due to this safety and effectiveness, castor oil has vast applications in curing and managing various health conditions and beauty concerns. Significant indications for which castor oil is popularly used include constipation, false labor induction, period cramps, hair fall, dandruff, breakage, split ends, rough hair, dry skin, scaly scalp, joint pain, muscles, and bone aches.
Moreover, castor oil is as good as it gets for promoting the growth of eyelashes. So, if you have short, unflattering lashes, don’t worry; just apply castor oil to them regularly and make your short curls look like falsies. Read on to explore ‘How castor oil grows eyelashes,’ ‘Which type of castor oil grows the longest eyelashes,’ and ‘How to apply castor oil to eyelashes.’ It’s important to learn since applying a thick comedogenic oil near the eye area can be critically challenging- this is to avoid clogging your eye pores and tear ducts.
It’s true that castor oil does not directly promote the growth of your eyelashes. However, it does make your lashes look thicker, luxurious, and glossier.
Well, there’s limited scientific evidence to support castor oils’ ability to enhance eyelash growth. Some research and experimental studies indicate that this gold-hued elixir can replenish the environment that favors hair growth. But how? A few experimental studies suggest that ricinoleic acid- the major hydroxylated fatty acid of castor oil, which is present in a proportion of about 89-92%, is a potent inhibitor of prostaglandin D2 synthase (an enzyme known to cause androgenetic alopecia). Androgenetic alopecia =Genetically predetermined disorder causing hair loss due to excessive response to androgens-the hormones.
Some preclinical trials (on rabbits) also concluded that Ricinus oil might influence the regeneration of hair. Still, some biologists believe that the enriched amounts of terpenoids, glycerol, and tocopherol-related compounds such as vitamin E help nourish the skin and follicles and, in turn, aid in maintaining the health of eyelashes. Moreover, ricinoleic acid is an excellent hydrating and moisturizing agent. It also works as an emollient that creates a thin coat of fatty acids- a barrier preventing water evaporation from the skin and hair and sealing moisture. Thus, in this way, it keeps the environment for skin and follicles replenished, preventing hair breakage (that may occur due to dehydrated keratin proteins), and aids in lengthening hair.
Our eyes are highly prone to common infections caused by bacteria, fungi, and other environmental allergens, notably dry eyes, conjunctivitis, keratitis, etc. Due to these eye problems, our eyelashes become fragile either owing to our body’s response to infection or by merely rubbing the eyes. Since castor oil offers incredible antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties, it can be the best savior of eyelashes by killing microbes and mitigating the symptoms of infections.
So, now that you may be clear that castor oil does grow eyelashes and how it actually works to make your lashes look longer and thicker, learn which type of castor oil is best to use on eyelashes.
The popular varieties of castor oil are cold-pressed, hydrogenated, and Jamaican black castor oil. All these types of castor oil have nearly similar compositions with about 89-92% ricinoleic acid, other beneficial omega fatty acids, and tocopherol-related compounds. However, there’s a little difference in the potency and absorptive capacity of these castor oil variants due to the different manufacturing and extraction procedures. Witness how?
Cold-pressed castor oil is obtained by extracting the ripe castor beans under high pressure without subjecting them to high temperatures. The oil is pale yellow with a mild nutty scent. Since the beans are not roasted prior to extraction, the oil does not contain ashes. So, its pH is around 6.0-7.0, and the oil is not highly alkaline. In contrast, Jamaican black castor oil is acquired by first roasting the high-quality Jamaican beans at high temperatures and then extracting the oil from the beans under high pressure. As a result, the pH of JBCO goes around 7.5-8.0, which is highly basic.
The one purpose of roasting the castor beans is to galvanize the pharmacological actions of each of the constituents of JBCO. The other reason is to increase the pH of the oil via enriched amounts of ashes, which come as a result of roasting the beans. But why the pH of JBCO is made high? It’s because increased alkalinity helps in opening the cuticles more quickly and easily, which in turn aids in nutrients reaching the deepest of layers, richly nourishing hair follicles and shafts.
So, according to this science, JBCO is more effective in promoting eyelash growth despite the similar action and composition of cold-pressed extra virgin castor oil. Nevertheless, to enhance the penetrative capacity of the pale-yellow elixir, use it with other beneficial ingredients such as aloe vera gel, sweet almond oil, egg whites, olive oil, and glycerine. To learn this, jump on the section ‘DIY Hacks for Castor Oil on Eyelashes.’
The third type of castor oil is hydrogenated, in which manufacturers use hydrogen to make the solid form at room temperature. This Ricinus butter is most frequently employed in cosmetics and not popularly used to increase eyelash growth. However, you can buy mascara containing hydrogenated or extra virgin castor oil for the very purpose. Regular application of such a product may help you get bigger lashes soon.
So, whatever type you use, you must know how to use castor oil on eyelashes. It’s important to learn to avoid clogging your eye pores or tear ducts with a viscous oil like castor. Continue reading for expert advice on using castor oil.
There’s no science in applying castor oil to your eyelashes. The only thing is to apply it cautiously since the eyes are the most delicate part of the human body. Any injury or reaction to the eye may end up in blindness. Therefore, always use the best quality product and use it with care.
The following are some DIY hacks of castor oil masks you can apply regularly on your eyelashes to boost growth.
Since you cannot apply castor oil directly to your eyes because it’s too thick to stay and work on your lash line, it is best to mix the oil with other ingredients, such as carrier oils and serums.
Olive oil is rich in several antioxidants, such as vitamins A and E- all beneficial in nourishing the environment and making it favorable for lash growth. Adding olive oil to castor oil makes the thick elixir more pourable and effortless to apply and doubles the benefits of both oils. For this;
Sweet almond oil is rich in vitamins A, D, and E, proteins, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids that serve as a potent emollient, hydrating agent, and anti-inflammatory. Mixing the sweet almond oil as a carrier will help dilute the thick castor oil and will also intensify the pharmacological actions of the oil. For this;
Argan oil is rich in tocopherols and omega fatty acids. Like castor oil, argan oil can nourish hair follicles and shafts to promote lash growth. Not only this, argan oil also helps to make your eye curls thicker and glossier. For this;
Egg white is called albumen; it is a protein that helps build the structure of hair and skin cells and enhances their integrity. Likewise, glycerine acts as an excellent elasticity enhancer and prevents breakage of your eyelashes. Make a DIY serum using these beneficial, ready-available, and affordable ingredients.
Use a good quality petroleum jelly as a source of petrolatum for this recipe. You can opt for the ‘Vaseline for Cracks’ product as it’s the best moisturizer that works magic overnight. However, vaseline is an occlusive moisturizer, so exercise care while applying it near the eye ducts or dilute it to a spreadable and absorbable consistency following the below-mentioned recipe.
Well, there’s no specific timeframe for castor oil to work on eyelashes. The elixir works differently for each individual, maybe because of the different nourishment requirements for promoting lash growth. Castor oil may take a few weeks to a month to show visible changes in the length and volume of your lashes. Remember that consistency is the key, and regular application, particularly at bedtime, is the best.
So, if you use castor oil regularly on your eyelashes following all precautions and safety concerns, you’ll notice the visible difference in the length, volume, and color (more dense and darker appearance) of your eyelashes.
Though it is safe to use castor oil on your eyelashes, it may cause some problems due to negligence. First and foremost, you must use a good-quality castor oil that is 100% organic and free from parabens, GMOs, and BPA. Secondly, always do a patch test before using such an elixir near your delicate eyes. For a test, apply a small amount of castor oil behind your ears, on the hairline, or near the edge of your eyebrows. Wait for 10-15 minutes to see if the reaction occurs. An allergic reaction to castor oil is indicated by the affected area’s redness, itching, and swelling.
If it happens, do not use castor oil since you are allergic to ricinoleic acid. In either case, you can safely use it, but make sure you use castor oil via the right tool, taking the right amount and covering the right area. Do not use too much castor oil since it is occlusive and may clog your tear ducts or lubricating glands- a side effect of using castor oil on eyelashes. Moreover, excessive application may cause temporary blurred vision, which may clear up after rinsing your eyes with water.
The best tools to apply castor oil to eyelashes are a clean mascara wand, cotton swab (Q-tip), or eyeliner brush. Just make sure that the wand or brush you use is of the precise size and shape that can help apply castor oil close to the lash line. Moreover, whatever tool you use, opt for the best material product to avoid being abrasive for your delicate eyes. You can also use your fingertips for easy application, but make sure your fingers are clean and tidy.
You can choose the cold-pressed castor oil for your eyelashes. Ensure that it is 100% organic and made with premium-quality castor beans. Moreover, it should be of high quality and packaged in a dark-colored amber glass bottle to avoid degradation by sunlight. You can opt for The Goodbye Company USDA organic The Hand of Christ for the best results in just weeks.
Castor oil on eyelashes may cause trouble, particularly if you have susceptible skin and scalp or when you use it with negligence. Typically, castor oil excessive application may cause irritation and sensitivity in the eyes. It may also end up in breakouts due to the clogging nature of the elixir. Moreover, do not use it if castor oil’s first application causes you an allergic reaction.
Other natural alternatives to castor oil to promote lash growth include olive oil, almond oil, argan oil, vitamin E serums, and peptide serums. Another product known as Latisse is a bimatoprost solution and an FDA-approved remedy to get longer, thicker, and glossier eyelashes. However, this product has specific temporary (dry eyes, redness, irritation, allergy) and permanent (darkening of the iris) side effects. It’s also not recommended for people with existing eye infections, viz conjunctivitis, uveitis, or macular edema. Therefore, it’s best to consult an ophthalmologist before using Latisse.
Many people use castor oil on their natural eyelashes to enhance their length and volume. However, applying such a viscous elixir on false eyelashes is not good. It is because they are made of synthetic materials or mink and are not composed of living cells. So, using oils on falsies may damage their appearance, quality, shape, and durability.
Nevertheless, if you wish to clean your falsies, follow the instructions mentioned in the package. You can also try using soapy water or makeup remover for the very purpose. But don’t use castor oil in an attempt to cleanse your false lashes deeply, or you might dissolve its adhesive, and it will fall apart.
Castor oil- the thick elixir obtained from castor beans, does not directly increase the length of your eyelashes. Still, it does work indirectly to make the environment favorable for lash growth. The oil does it by enhancing the nutrient level of the hair follicles and locking the moisture in hair shafts. As a result, you get thicker, luxurious, and glossier eyelashes. However, this does not happen overnight. Consistency is the key, and you have to apply castor oil or castor oil serums regularly and leave that overnight for best and quicker results. You’ll notice visible changes in the appearance of your eyelashes in a few weeks to a month.
You can use any castor oil variant for this purpose, but be sure it is 100% organic and free from harmful chemicals, such as parabens, GMOs, and BPA. Try The Goodbye Company cold pressed castor oil, extra virgin castor oil, and JBCO to make lash growth-enhancing serums. Moreover, be careful when using this oil on your lashes because it is occlusive and may cause some eye trouble. Read above to know the safety levels of castor oil when using on the lash line. Also, explore DIY serums with castor oil to make the thick elixir more pourable, spreadable, and absorbable for easy application. Additionally, know how to apply castor oil to your eyelashes to make your short curls look like falsies.
