How to Apply Castor Oil for Hair

Castor oil is one of dozens of ancient oils that also doubles as a hair product (olive oil and coconut oil are a few of the others). Created from the castor bean, it is a type of vegetable oil with a very high boiling point, which makes the product perfect for hot oil treatments. While it has traditionally been used for cooking, it provides excellent moisture for human hair. Follow these steps for an easy and inexpensive moisture treatment.

Things You'll Need

• 1 cup castor oil
• 1 plastic shower cap
• 1 applicator brush
• 1 hooded dryer
• 3 plastic hair clips

Instructions

How to Apply Castor Oil for Hair

1. Section your hair. Part dry hair twice: from ear to ear and from your forehead to the nape of your neck. The hair should be in four sections. Fasten three sections with plastic clips.

2. Prepare the oil. Pour the castor oil into a microwaveable container. Heat on "High" for about 3 minutes. Test a small amount on your finger. If needed, let cool before applying to your hair.

3. Apply to hair. Dip the applicator brush into the castor oil. Brush it across the parts in your scalp. If you have a very dry scalp that needs more attention, take each section and split in half before brushing more castor oil across that area of your scalp. Using the applicator brush, coat all four section of your hair with castor oil. Cover your head with a plastic shower cap.

4. Add heat. Sit under a warm hooded dryer for approximately 15 minutes. Heat will allow the oil to penetrate the deepest layers of your hair. This step is very beneficial to curly, kinky and chemically treated hair. If your hair is straight, wavy or fine, skip this step because it will only make your hair appear oily.

5. Rinse your hair with warm water before shampooing, conditioning and styling as usual. Repeat this treatment once a month if your hair is dry.

References

• Castor oil plant