Does castor oil genuinely deliver benefits for facial skin and the under-eye area? A scientific examination and practical applications
Emilia Szymańska
2026-03-20
2 min. read
50
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For millennia, castor oil—derived from the seeds of *Ricinus communis*—has served as a cornerstone of traditional dermatological remedies. Its distinctive properties, including anti-inflammatory, deeply hydrating, and epidermis-regenerating effects, have earned it recognition in both Ayurvedic medicine and contemporary skincare practices. Across South Asia, it is widely employed not only to soothe skin irritations but also as an adjunctive therapy to accelerate tissue repair and modulate the body’s immune response.
Oil of castor oil
It is classified as a type of triglyceride fatty acid, and almost 90% of its fatty acids are specific and rare compounds called ricinolic acid, which are found in a few other substances. A report published in the International Journal of Toxicology shows that ricino oil is used in more than 700 cosmetic products. In addition to the basic compound, ricinoic acid, it also has the benefits of esters and salts, which act as conductors in conducting hydrochloric acid metabolism, which leads to the release of other minerals in the skin, and enrichment of the mineral oil.
Rhubarb oil for the face
It works as a natural antibacterial agent to reduce acne swelling along with scarring. At night, it is recommended to wash the face with warm water to open the pores, and then massage some oil into the face and leave it for the night, flushing it until morning. It has been shown that this product is made up of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, which are often responsible for the formation of acne.
Rhubarb oil for the eyes
The thickness of the skin under the eyes is small, in addition there is no fatty tissue, and the fibers that make up the skin are weak, which is why wrinkles around the eyes begin to appear quickly (about 25 years of age).