Ricinus Communis (castor) seed oil is a thick, viscous plant oil rich in ricinoleic acid, used as an emollient, moisturizer, and solvent in skincare and cosmetic formulations. It helps soften skin, provide slip, and is commonly found in lip products, balms, and cleansing formulations.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Uncommon | Reported particularly with lip cosmetics and from ricinoleic acid as the sensitizing component. |
| Skin irritation or redness | Uncommon | Mild irritation possible, especially on sensitive or compromised skin. |
| Comedogenicity / pore congestion | Rare | Generally considered low-comedogenic, but breakouts occasionally reported in acne-prone individuals. |
| Cheilitis (lip inflammation) | Rare | Associated with frequent use in lipstick and lip-care products. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.