Castor oil in skincare
A viscous plant oil from castor seeds.
What is castor oil?
A viscous plant oil from castor seeds. On the ingredient list, you can find the name Ricinus Communis Seed Oil. The dictionary uses both the common name and the INCI name, so you can compare the explanation with the packaging.
What does castor oil do for skin and the product?
Provides shine, glide and body, including in lip products.
Emollients make the surface more supple and affect how the product spreads. Lipids do not themselves add water, but some can also help retain moisture.
The finished cosmetic oil should not be confused with unprocessed seeds.
How to read the ingredient list
Look at the product's purpose and overall composition. Position on the list does not tell you the exact concentration used or how your skin will react. One substance can serve several purposes in the same product.
Questions about castor oil
What does castor oil do in skincare?
Provides shine, glide and body, including in lip products.
What should I know about castor oil?
The finished cosmetic oil should not be confused with unprocessed seeds.
Related ingredients
About sources and ingredient names
The European Commission's CosIng database is a reference for cosmetic ingredient names and functions. An entry does not constitute approval of all uses or evidence of a particular product effect.
DermNet: functions of moisturising care · DermNet: cosmetic formulations