If you’ve ever Googled “natural lash growth,” you’ve probably come across castor oil. It’s one of the most widely recommended DIY remedies for thinning lashes — especially in natural beauty circles. But is it actually safe to use near your eyes? And more importantly, does it work?
At erthlash™, we’ve done the research — and the truth might surprise you.
🌿 What Is Castor Oil?
Castor oil is a vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis). It’s rich in ricinoleic acid, a type of fatty acid that gives the oil its thick, sticky texture. Traditionally, it’s been used to moisturise skin, condition hair, and even relieve constipation — but its role in lash growth is still under debate.
👁 Why the Eye Area Is Different
The skin around your eyes is ten times thinner than the rest of your face. It’s also home to your tear ducts, oil glands, and some of the most sensitive mucous membranes in your body. So what you apply near your eyes matters — a lot.
Many people try castor oil in hopes of regrowing sparse lashes, especially as they get older or experience lash fallout due to hormonal changes (like menopause). But applying raw oil near the eyes can come with unexpected risks.
⚠️ Risks of Using Castor Oil on Lashes
Even “pure” castor oil can cause problems if it hasn’t been properly processed for cosmetic or ophthalmic use. Here's why:
1. May Contain Residual Solvents
Some cheaper castor oils are extracted using hexane, a harsh chemical solvent. If not properly refined, trace amounts can remain in the oil — and that’s the last thing you want near your eyes.
2. Not Always Sterile
Castor oil doesn't contain preservatives, which means it can become contaminated over time — especially if you're dipping a wand or fingertip into the bottle. Contaminated oil near your lashes can lead to eye infections or styes.
3. Can Block Eye Glands
Its thick, greasy consistency can clog the meibomian glands, which are essential for keeping your eyes lubricated. This can worsen dry eyes, something many women over 40 already struggle with.
4. Allergic Reactions Are Possible
While it’s considered natural, castor oil can still trigger redness, swelling, or stinging, especially in people with sensitive eyes or allergies.
🧪 Does Castor Oil Actually Help Lashes Grow?
Despite its popularity, there’s little scientific evidence proving that castor oil boosts lash growth. While it may condition lashes and reduce breakage by acting as a barrier, it doesn’t contain any peptides or growth factors that actively stimulate the follicle.
So yes — it may make lashes look glossier or help them fall out less. But actual regrowth? That’s unlikely.
💬 Final Thoughts
Castor oil might seem like a natural choice — but when it comes to lash health, “natural” doesn’t always mean safe. The delicate eye area deserves products that are clean, gentle, and clinically-informed.
If you’ve tried castor oil and found it irritating or ineffective, you’re not alone. We hear this from many of our customers which is one of the reasons erthlash™ was born.
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