Does Castor Oil Treat Stretch Marks?
Castor oil is popular for improving hair health. It is also widely used in skin care products because it reduces stretch marks, among other benefits. So how exactly does castor oil do this skin wonder of clearing stretch marks? You`re about to figure out; just keep reading.
Why Does Castor Oil Reduce Stretch Marks?
It`s not unusual to ask this question. So why? Well, it`s simple! Castor oil has got some contents that benefit the skin immensely; take a quick look!
Contains Ricinoleic Acid
Ricinoleic acid is an unsaturated omega-9 fatty acid, that contains certain salts and esters that have a skin-conditioning effect, keeping the skin moisturized at all times. This ricinoleic acid content is why castor oil prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
It`s a Moisturizer
It`s common knowledge that moisturizers clear scars, stretch marks are like scars. Proper moisturization improves the skin`s appearance, and that`s exactly what castor oil does with stretch marks.
How to Use Castor Oil for Stretch Marks
Castor Oil and Almond Oil
Massaging your skin with bitter almond oil will help you get rid of stretch marks. Sweet almond oil, on the other hand, reduces itching on the stretch marks and prevents further occurrence.
You Will Need
- 1 tablespoon of sweet almond oil.
- 2-3 drops of bitter almond oil (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of cold-pressed castor oil
Method
- Mix both oils.
- Massage the mixture right into the stretch marks.
- Let it stay overnight.
- Do this daily.
Castor Oil Warm Massage
Castor oil keeps the skin hydrated, and as a result, minimizes moisture loss. This helps minimize stretch marks. You only need two tablespoons of cold-pressed castor oil for this warm massage.
Method
- Heat the castor oil for a few seconds.
- Massage the warm oil onto the affected area for 10 minutes.
- Leave it all night.
- Do this daily.
Castor Oil and Coconut Oil
Virgin coconut oil has therapeutic and moisturizing effects on the skin, making it effective at reducing stretch marks.
You Will Need
- 1 tablespoon of cold-pressed castor oil
- 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil
Method
- Mix both oils.
- Warm the blend for a few seconds.
- Massage it onto the stretch marks.
- Let it stay overnight.
- Do this daily.
Castor Oil and Oatmeal Pack
You probably didn`t know that colloidal oat extracts improve skin health. Now you know! See how it works for stretch marks.
You Will Need
- 2 tablespoons of ground oatmeal
- 50 ml of water
- 1 tablespoon of cold-pressed castor oil
Method
- Mix the ground oatmeal in water and make it have a paste-like consistency.
- Add the castor oil.
- Massage the mixture onto the stretch marks for about 15 minutes.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes.
- Wash it off and apply a moisturizer.
- Do this every day.
Castor Oil and Cloves
Clove oil has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as reorganizes tissues. This makes it effective at reducing stretch marks.
You Will Need
- 3 drops of clove essential oil
- 1 tablespoon of cold-pressed castor oil
Method
- Mix both oils.
- Massage the blend right on the stretch marks.
- Leave it on overnight.
- Do this daily.
Caution: Clove oil may irritate the skin, so it is important to do a patch test before using it.
Castor Oil and Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is great at keeping the skin moisturized, alongside spurring the fibroblasts to produce collagen. This goes a long way in minimizing stretch marks.
You Will Need
- 1 tablespoon of cold-pressed castor oil
- 1 tablespoon of fresh aloe vera gel
Method
- Mix the aloe vera gel with the castor oil.
- Massage the mixture onto the stretch marks 10 minutes.
- Leave it all night.
- Do this every day.
Castor Oil and Turmeric
Turmeric`s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects keep the skin healthy, and together with castor oil, clears stretch marks.
You Will Need
- 1 tablespoon of cold-pressed castor oil
- ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder
Method
- Mix the castor oil and turmeric powder.
- Massage the mixture onto the stretch marks.
- Leave it on for an hour before washing off.
- Apply a moisturizer.
- Do this daily.
Caution: Turmeric may leave stains on your skin and clothes.
Castor Oil and Plastic Wrap
You only need a tablespoon of cold-pressed castor oil and cling wrap to moisturizing your skin deeply.
Method
- Heat the castor oil for a few seconds.
- Massage the stretch marks with it.
- Wrap the area tightly with the cling wrap.
- Leave it on for about 30 minutes.
- Unwrap it and massage the area again.
- Leave it on to get absorbed into the skin.
- Do this daily.
Castor Oil and Lemon Juice
Extract the juice of half a lemon, with a tablespoon of cold-pressed castor oil.
Method
- Dilute the lemon juice in two tablespoons of water.
- Apply the diluted juice to the stretch marks.
- Give it some time to dry.
- Massage with castor oil.
- Leave it for half an hour.
- Wash it off and apply a moisturizer.
Castor Oil and Sugar Scrub
Sugar is one of the best natural scrubs for your skin because it`s got a coarse texture. How does this work?
You Will Need
- 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of cold-pressed castor oil
Method
- Mix the castor oil and sugar.
- Massage the blend onto the stretch marks for 10 minutes.
- Let it stay for 15 minutes.
- Wash it off and apply a moisturizer.
- Do this every other day.
Castor Oil and Potato Juice
Here`s how this combination works! You only need a tablespoon of raw potato juice and a tablespoon of cold-pressed castor oil
Method
- Mix the castor oil and potato juice.
- Massage the mixture onto the stretch marks.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes.
- Wash it off and apply a moisturizer.
- Do this every day.
All these 11 remedies will reduce stretch marks and keep your skin moisturized, however, there are things you should know before using castor oil on your stretch marks, to avoid the possible side effects.
4 Things to Know Before Using Castor Oil for Stretch Marks
Risk of Allergic Reactions
There are claims that castor oil may cause redness and irritation for some persons. If you`re using it for the first time, you are advised to do a patch test to determine if it irritates your skin.
May Be Comedogenic
Some studies claim that castor oil might contain comedones that could block the skin pores This may put users at risk of acne-like bumps in the affected area. You might just want to be observant, especially if it`s your first time using castor oil on your skin.
May Induce Labor
Depending on the situation, this could be a benefit or a side effect. For women who want to induce labor, it is a benefit, however, for others who don`t, it may be a side effect. Here`s why pregnant women should be careful using castor oil; they just might want to get a doctor`s prescription first.
May Cause Dizziness
Castor oil overdose may put you at risk of dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, and even fainting if extreme. Here`s why you should use the appropriate quantity.
Now that you Know…
Yes, castor oil will clear stretch marks and improve your skin health, however, you want to use it properly to avoid its side effects. You should also not expect overnight or quick results. Be patient and consistent in your application, and watch as your stretch marks reduce gradually. You sure deserve beautiful skin.