Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Tropic Isle, 8oz
34,00 AUD
Thick, old-fashioned oil for lashes, brows and skin.
Want fuller-looking lashes or softer skin? Did you know castor oil is a thick, rich plant oil pressed from the seeds of Ricinus communis and used in beauty routines for ages? Try a drop.
Castor oil is a thick, pale oil pressed from the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis). It has a long history in home care as a skin and hair conditioner. Its unusual richness makes it a favourite ingredient in lip balms, soaps, massage blends and hair treatments. Cold pressed castor oil is often chosen for cosmetic use because it is minimally processed. Here, castor oil is used as a topical, cosmetic oil rather than something to swallow.
Delivery: Usually arrives within 3 days to 2 weeks.
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Benefits & common uses
Benefits
- Helps moisturise and soften dry skin
- Helps condition dry, brittle-looking hair
- Helps leave lips feeling smooth and protected
- Used in cosmetic massage to help soften skin
- Helps give brows and lashes a glossy, conditioned look
- Helps create a protective, nourishing feel on rough areas such as heels and elbows
What people commonly use it for
- Dry, rough skin (Good cosmetic evidence that rich oils help hold moisture in the skin surface)
- Dry, chapped lips (Traditional use, and a common balm ingredient)
- Dry or frizzy hair and scalp (Traditional cosmetic use, with little formal research)
- Sparse-looking brows and lashes (Popular cosmetic use. Evidence for growth is anecdotal only)
- Rough heels, elbows and cuticles (Traditional use as a heavy conditioning oil)
Suggested to use alongside
- Hair oil: Popular for hair and scalp care
- Body oil: Blends well with other carrier oils
- Shea butter: Rich moisturiser for dry skin
The science behind it
Castor oil is unusual because about 85 to 90 per cent of its fatty acid content is ricinoleic acid, a hydroxylated fatty acid that most other plant oils contain in only trace amounts. The extra hydroxyl group makes the oil thick and sticky and gives it a strong ability to attract and hold water. This is why it sits on the skin surface as an occlusive and humectant-like emollient, slowing water loss from the outer layer of skin.
Because it is so viscous, castor oil is often blended with lighter carrier oils such as sweet almond, jojoba or coconut. This makes it easier to spread, especially on hair and larger areas of skin.
Ricinoleic acid is the reason the oil has a mild effect on the skin as well as the sheen it gives. The toxic protein ricin is found in the castor bean, but it does not carry over into the pressed oil.
Cold pressed versus refined:
- Cold pressed oil keeps more of its natural character and is minimally processed.
- Refined or hexane-free oils are lighter in colour and odour.
- Jamaican black castor oil is made from roasted beans and is darker with a smoky scent.
Cosmetic ingredient safety has been reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel, which found castor oil safe in cosmetics at typical use levels.
Product details & ingredients
- Size: 8oz
- Form: Oil
Always read the label and follow the directions for use. This information is general in nature and not medical advice. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.
Supplier ref: Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Glass Bottle (8 Ounce)
Common questions
What is castor oil used for?
In cosmetics it is used to moisturise skin, condition hair and soften lips. It is a common ingredient in lip balms, soaps and hair treatments because of its rich texture.
Is castor oil good for hair?
It can help coat the hair and leave it feeling softer and glossier. Because it is heavy, most people mix it with a lighter oil and wash it out thoroughly.
Can I put castor oil on my eyelashes and brows?
Many people do for a glossy look. Keep it away from the eyes themselves, use a clean applicator, and stop if you notice irritation. Claims of growth are anecdotal.
What is the difference between cold pressed and black castor oil?
Cold pressed oil is pale and made by pressing raw seeds. Jamaican black castor oil is made from roasted, ground beans and has a darker colour and smoky scent.
Why is castor oil so thick?
It is high in ricinoleic acid, which makes the oil dense and sticky. Blending it with a lighter oil makes it easier to apply.
Should I do a patch test first?
Yes. Apply a small amount to the inner forearm and wait 24 hours before wider use, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Safety
For external, cosmetic use. Do a patch test first and keep away from the eyes. This product is not intended to be swallowed. Taking castor oil by mouth acts as a strong laxative and is not recommended during pregnancy, so avoid it unless directed by a healthcare professional.
About Tropic Isle
Tropic Isle is a specialist supplier we are happy to stock alongside the big names.
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