Can Castor Oil Really Help Treat Dark Circles? Our Derm Weighs In

What Is Castor Oil?

Castor oil is a vegetable oil that comes from the seeds of the castor bean plant (aka ricinus communis). It’s been around for ages, and while it’s well known for existing as a digestive aid (yup, it’s got laxative properties), it’s also pretty commonly used in skincare and hair care and even as an ingredient in motor oil. It can even help relieve dry skin, discomfort from eczema flare-ups, protect against free radicals, soften the appearance of fine lines, and more. Needless to say, it’s a pretty versatile ingredient. Castor oil is also loaded up with fatty acids and has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and moisturizing properties among many other benefits, thanks to all the good-for-skin ingredients that it’s made up of. What are they? “Primarily ricinoleic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, and stearic acid. Ricinoleic acid has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it beneficial for skin conditions and scalp health. Oleic acid helps to moisturize and soften the skin and hair, while linoleic acid promotes hydration and strengthens the skin barrier. Stearic acid provides cleansing properties and helps protect the skin from damage,” says Dr. Garshick.

Can Castor Oil Help With Dark Circles?

So, can castor oil really help dark circles? The key word is “help.” Why? Because when it comes to dark circles, it's important to note that they happen for several different reasons (like loss of collagen and elastin), and different causes sometimes need different solutions. “Dark circles can be caused by a variety of factors including genetics, aging, lack of sleep, and lifestyle choices. As we age, the skin around the eyes becomes thinner, making blood vessels more visible. Volume loss over time can contribute to a shadow effect which can make dark circles more noticeable. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as stress, smoking, and alcohol consumption can contribute to the development of dark circles,” Dr. Garshick tells us. While most dark circles look like a change in pigmentation, other factors like these can make the appearance of dark circles more prominent. So how can castor oil help? “There is some anecdotal evidence suggesting that castor oil can help with dark circles, primarily due to its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. By hydrating the delicate skin under the eyes, castor oil can reduce dryness and improve skin texture, potentially making dark circles less noticeable. Its anti-inflammatory effects might also help reduce puffiness and soothe irritated skin, which can contribute to a lighter and more even skin tone,” Dr. Garshick tells us.

Final Thoughts 

If you’re looking for a surefire way to get rid of dark circles completely, castor oil may not be your best option. But, if you’re looking for a way to help improve their appearance while nourishing your skin, it's not a bad move to incorporate castor oil into your skincare routine, or as an addition to other treatments for your dark circles. Here are some quick tips on how to use castor oil to help with dark circles.

1. Do a Patch Test

Like any new skincare product or ingredient, it’s important to do a skin test to make sure you aren’t sensitive. “Pat a drop of castor oil to a discrete area of skin, such as the inside of your wrist or behind your ear. Leave it on for 24 hours and observe for any signs of irritation, redness, itching, or swelling,” Dr. Garshick advises.

2. Cold-Pressed Is Key

"Look for cold-pressed, organic, and hexane-free options to ensure the oil is pure and free from harmful chemicals. Cold-pressed oils retain more nutrients and beneficial properties compared to those processed with heat or chemicals. An organic certification on the label indicates that the oil is free from pesticides and other contaminants,” says Dr. Garshick.

3. Apply It at Bedtime

Unlike almond oil, coconut oil, or jojoba oil, castor oil has a pretty thick consistency which is what enables it to lock in moisture really well. If you’re prone to waking up looking extra tired, try using castor oil at night. “Gently dab a small amount of castor oil around the eyes before bedtime to help reduce dryness and improve skin texture,” according to Dr. Garshick. Your 8 am self will thank you for it!

4. Mix It With Your Skincare

“Since castor oil may be combined with other ingredients to yield even greater benefits, it may be easiest to use a product made with castor oil,” says Dr. Garshick. Try mixing a few drops of castor oil with your go-to brightening or anti-aging eye cream (we tried FIRST AID BEAUTY Hydrating EYE Cream with B.WELL Organic + Cold-Pressed 100 % Castor Oil) and pat it around your undereye area (just be sure to avoid your eyelashes which can irritate your eyes).

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