How does castor oil strengthen eyelashes?

The castor oil plant is an annual herbaceous plant originating from India that can grow up to 3 metres tall. Its leaves are palmate and reddish, its fruits consist of spiny capsules containing large ovate seeds marbled in brown, red or black. By first cold pressing these seeds followed by filtration, we obtain the virgin castor oil. This takes the form of a viscous liquid colourless to slightly yellowish with a greasy or even sticky touch.

Thecastor oil is valued in makeup because it aids in the dispersion of pigments. In skincare, its properties have been recognised for centuries: according to legend, Cleopatra used it as a makeup remover.

Castor oil is primarily composed of ricinoleic acid (from 83% to 88%). It also contains oleic acid (omega-9), linoleic acid (omega-6), palmitic acid and stearic acid.

This vegetable oil, renowned for its strengthening and nourishing properties, is reputed to promote the growth of eyelashes and eyebrows. However, it should be noted that so far, no scientific study has demonstrated this ability in castor oil. This reputation is actually based on scientific studies concerning the action of castor oil on hair loss. Thus, it has been shown that ricinoleic acid is capable of reversing the process related to hair loss by inhibiting the action of prostaglandin D2 (PGD2).

Regarding eyelashes, castor oil nonetheless allows them to be hydrated and strengthened. Healthy eyelashes will thus tend to grow more quickly. Enriched with pea peptides and castor oil, our eyelash & eyebrow serum and our mascara serum nourish, strengthen and promote the growth of eyelashes and eyebrows.

Note : Even though castor oil is a mild compound with no contraindications, all precautions should be taken when using it on this delicate area around the eye. It is therefore important to ensure that the oil does not come into contact with the eye. The application should be done in small amounts along the length of the eyelashes, using a cotton swab or a mascara wand. It is possible to apply it before going to sleep and then remove the excess in the morning.