Castor oil for intimate hygiene?

Intimate hygiene should not be taken lightly. The genital area is particularly delicate, being highly sensitive and characterised by a complex physiology. It thus requires specific attention to maintain the balance of its microbiota, which acts as a natural protective barrier against external pathogens. Comprising nearly 95% of lactic acid bacteria, which synthesise lactic acid, the intimate areas are characterised by a low pH, helping to limit the proliferation of harmful microbes. A disruption of this pH or the microbial flora increases the risks of dryness, irritation and infections. Is castor oil, lauded for its numerous skin benefits, suitable for this particular area?

Castor oil to soothe post-shave irritations?

People who shave or wax their pubic hair know this: razor blades, wax, or electric epilators can cause irritation, redness and micro-lesions. Fortunately, certain balms or lotions specifically formulated for intimate areas can soothe sensitised skin.

The castor oil, regarded as a natural anti-inflammatory, is sometimes included in their composition. Indeed, some of its fatty acids are capable of inhibiting the release of certain pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor (TNF-α) and interleukins 1β and 6 (IL-1β and IL-6). These molecules are particularly involved in inflammatory phenomena such as redness and itching. The rich composition of castor oil allows us to suppose that this botanical extract could soothe irritations caused by hair removal or shaving.

Castor oil for moisturising this sensitive area?

It is not uncommon for intimate areas, particularly the vagina, to suffer from dryness. Excessive cleansing, hormonal imbalances, unsuitable underwear, shaving... The causes of intimate dryness are numerous. It is advisable to act as soon as possible to restore the hydration balance, before this dryness leads to irritation.

The application of a treatment rich in castor oil can help to rehydrate the skin and prevent future water loss. Indeed, this vegetable oil is rich in oleic acid, known for its film-forming properties. In synergy with palmitic and stearic acids, this fatty acid strengthens the hydrolipidic film present on the skin's surface, thus reducing skin dehydration and protecting the skin from external aggressions. Therefore, castor oil-based treatments intended for intimate areas seem interesting for hydrating this delicate zone.

Castor oil to prevent fungal infections?

The intimate areas are prone to fungal invasions, which can cause a yeast infection of the glans or a vaginal yeast infection. These conditions cause redness, irritation and itching that are particularly difficult to endure. Yeast infections are most often due to colonisation by the microorganism Candida albicans, which can result from taking antibiotics or from a weakened immune system.

Indeed, castor oil is attributed with the ability to slow down, or even halt, the growth of certain fungi. According to a study in vitro, this botanical extract could notably inhibit the proliferation of the micro-organism Lentinus sajor-caju in a dose-dependent manner. During this study, the antifungal effect of castor oil was compared to that of fluconazole, a medication commonly used to treat fungal infections. The disc diffusion method, also known as the Kirby-Bauer test, was used. The results obtained after incubation for 24 hours are compiled in the table below.