DIY Deep Conditioning Hair Mask with Castor Oil

I’m a BIG hair girl. I love anything and everything that’s going to make my hair shiny and smooth. This deep conditioning hair mask is ah-mazing! I usually apply it every Sunday while we catch up on our Netflix shows. I love that it’s only 3 ingredients and my hair is so super soft afterward.

Castor Oil

Castor oil is a staple in my day-to-day routine. I use it nightly for my oil cleansing and as abdominal packs for digestive support (something I recommend to my acne clients in The Clear Skin Solution). So it’s a no-brainer to use as an amazing deep conditioning hair mask.

What is it

Castor oil has been used since ancient times in Egypt, China, and India. It was traditionally made into compresses and poultices and used in anointing ceremonies. Derived from castor seeds, castor oil is a very thick oil that can be applied topically and taken internally.

Benefits

Traditionally, a castor oil pack involves combining the oil with a piece of fabric (usually flannel or cotton) and applying it over the abdomen. This practice can provide various health benefits and is a great addition to your lifestyle.

Over in The Clear Skin Solution, we incorporate lifestyle practices into our acne-clearing protocols to support overall body health. One of our favourite practices is the use of castor oil packs. While many of their uses are anecdotal and not substantiated by the FDA, the FDA does acknowledge that castor oil can temporarily provide relief from constipation.

You can find premade kits, such as those available from Queen of Thrones, or purchase the items individually. Organic castor oil is available at most health food stores or from various online retailers.

Hair Health

While many of the uses of castor oil are anecdotal and not substantiated by the FDA, the FDA does recognize that castor oil can impact hair health. Many people praise its remarkable effectiveness for promoting hair growth.

The ricin and ricinoleic acid found in castor oil can be known to protect the scalp and hair from fungal and microbial infections, which are significant contributors to hair loss. These same fatty acids also moisturize the scalp, reducing dryness and flakiness. Additionally, some users report that castor oil has helped prevent premature greying of their hair.

Here are some other benefits people have seen after using castor oil:

• Reduces hair fall out
• Boosts growth
• Reduces dandruff
• Cuts down on split ends
• Increases shine

If you’re a big fan of castor oil, check out my other blog, Oil Cleansing for Clear Skin. And if skin health perks up your ears, join over 10k other women my free Facebook community, Clear Skin for Life. 

DIY Deep Conditioning Hair Mask with Castor Oil

A super nourishing hair mask to promote growth, reduce dandruff, and increase shine.

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Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 -6 hair masks

Author: Katie Stewart Wellness

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons organic cold-pressed castor oil
• 1 tablespoon avocado jojoba or olive oil
• 6 drops doTERRA essential oils* I do 2 drops each lavender, rosemary, and clary sage

Essential oils for hair:

• Lavender
• Peppermint
• Rosemary
• Geranium
• Clary Sage

Instructions

• Combine all ingredients in dark, glass dropper bottle. Gently shake until well combined.
• Apply a few drops throughout clean, dry hair (less is more). Make sure to pay special attention to the scalp and ends.
• Brush through to evenly distribute.
• Let sit for 20-30 minutes.

To remove, use lukewarm water and apply the shampoo on your hair and scalp and gently massage using your fingertips.

• Leave shampoo on for around one minute.
• Wash your hair with warm water, using your fingers to make circular motions along the scalp.
• Repeat if hair is still oily.
• Rinse with Apple Cider Vinegar.

Notes

Makes enough for about 4-6 masks, depending on the length of your hair.

Castor oil stains! Only wear clothes and use towels you don’t care about staining.

Some people find washing their hair with conditioner works better than shampooing the castor oil out.