Castor oil has long been used as a hair treatment for hair loss and thinning. It has many other uses, including moisturizing dry hair, fighting frizz and detangling. It can also make hair grow stronger and thicker. There is a lot more to do than simply oiling; the preparation will determine the ease of application. This article will explain how to prepare the oil and apply it to hair.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Preparing the Oil
Step 1. Gather the necessary materials
Applying castor oil to your hair may sound simple, but there are some things you can do to make it easier and more effective. Below is a list of required materials:
- Castor oil.
- Other oil (argan, avocado, coconut, jojoba, sweet almond, etc).
- Hot water.
- Bowl.
- Jar.
- Shower cap.
- Towel.
- Old t-shirt (recommended).
Step 2. Dilute castor oil with another oil
Castor oil is too thick, which can make application difficult. Try using one part castor oil and one part another oil, such as argan, avocado, coconut, jojoba, or sweet almond. All of these oils are great for your hair. You can also try the combination below:
- 3 tablespoons of castor oil.
- 1 tablespoon of jojoba oil.
- 1 tablespoon of coconut oil.
Step 3. Consider adding a few drops of essential oil to mask the smell
Castor oil can smell bad, and if that bothers you, try adding 2 or 3 drops of some fresh scented essential oil, such as rosemary, peppermint, or tree tea.
Step 4. Put all the oils in a jar and shake to mix
Close the lid tightly and shake the jar for a few minutes. When finished, remove the cap.
Step 5. Fill a bowl with very hot water
The bowl must be big enough to hold the jar. You'll heat the oil -- it'll make it more effective and easier to mix. Do not try to heat up in the microwave.
Step 6. Place the jar in the water and leave it there for between two and four minutes
The water level must be the same as the oil level. Also be careful that no water gets into the jar, or the oil will get wet.
Step 7. Once the oil is warm, place it in a small bowl
This makes it easy to place your fingers to apply.
Pour the oil into a small bottle with a dropper. So, you can use it to drip oil on your scalp
Part 2 of 2: Using Castor Oil
Step 1. Moisten your hair (it can't be wet, it can be damp)
This will help the oil to be better absorbed by the hair. A quick way to moisten your hair is to fill a spray bottle with water and spray only the scalp.
Step 2. Put a towel over your shoulders
This will prevent the garment from becoming oil filled. It can be good to wear old items that could be damaged in case the oil gets from the towel to the fabric.
Step 3. Dip your fingers in the oil and massage your scalp for three to five minutes
Don't over-oil; a small amount has a great effect. Use your fingers to spread the oil through the hairline and the scalp. Massage your head with your fingertips in small circular motions.
It is also possible to use an eyedropper to drip the oil into various corners of the scalp. Doing so makes the process easier and lessens the mess. Massage the oil into the leather for about five minutes
Step 4. Apply the oil to the rest of the hair
Take some with your fingers and rub it into your palms. Then run your hands through your hair. Use your fingers to comb the strands; this helps to distribute the oil. Always start with a small amount; you don't need to use a lot.
Step 5. Cover your hair with a shower cap
Bring the hair close to the head without squeezing; if necessary, use a clip. Put the cap over the top: it will keep the heat trapped inside and keep your hair from drying out.
Step 6. Wrap a warm towel around your cap-covered head
Warm a towel by soaking it in very hot water. Twist to remove excess water and roll it over your head. You can pin the end of the towel underneath like a turban or with a hair clip. Heat will make the oil more effective.
Step 7. Wait 30 minutes to three hours before removing the oil
It is also possible to let it act overnight, although there is little evidence that this is more effective. When washing your hair, be aware that it may take time to remove all the oil. Some people find that washing only with conditioner and leaving the shampoo alone works better than using shampoo.
Step 8. Use this treatment once or twice a week for best results
Remember that results won't show up right away. Try using it for four weeks before trying anything else.
Tips
- Castor oil can also be purchased at cosmetic stores. It usually contains other ingredients and can be used as-is without overheating.
- Try buying cold-pressed, unrefined castor oil. It will be more effective and will have more nutrients. Avoid refined or adulterated oil; it's low in nutrients and won't do as well.
- Castor oil is moisturizing, which makes it great for dry hair; it can also help tame goose bumps.
- If your hair tends to tangle easily after treatment, you may find it softer and easier to move.
- Castor oil can also help soothe itchy scalp and reduce dandruff.
- Castor oil can help hair to grow stronger and thicker. It can also be used as a remedy for hair loss.
Notices
- Do not use the oil if you are pregnant or suffer from chronic digestion problems.
- If you have never used castor oil and you have sensitive skin, get tested first. Put some oil on the inside of your arm and wait a few hours. If no irritations or allergic reactions occur, then the oil can be used.
- Because castor oil is thick, it can darken fair hair. It won't be noticeable and it won't be permanent.
- Oil can improve problems like hair loss and itching, but it can also make them worse.