Castor Oil – A Thick, Glossy Classic of Natural Cosmetics

Castor oil, also known as Ricinus communis oil, is derived from the seeds of the castor plant, which grows in tropical regions of Africa and the Mediterranean. It’s one of the oldest known oils in history, used for over 4,000 years not only in cosmetics, but also in households, industry, and even for maintaining leather or tools.
Though its industrial background might seem unusual for skincare, castor oil has a unique composition that makes it indispensable in many cosmetic products—especially where shine and thickness are desired, such as in lipsticks, glosses, or highlighters.
Its secret lies in the high content of ricinoleic acid (up to 90%), a fatty acid with a unique structure. This makes the oil thicker, glossier, and ideal in formulations where other oils may fall short.
In skincare, it works as an emollient that softens the skin and an occlusive that helps prevent moisture loss. That’s why it’s often included in small amounts in moisturizers.
Though generally well-tolerated
, it’s recommended to do a patch test on sensitive skin before use.