Pluses and minuses of using castor oil for lip balm: uses, side effects, interactions

The benefits of castor oil or castor oil as a mixture for cosmetics is not in doubt. Soap is one example. However, not only that, some also use castor oil for lip balm. So, what are the benefits and possible side effects?

Benefits of castor oil for lip balm

Castor oil is an oil extract from the seeds of the castor plant, otherwise known by its scientific name Ricinus communis L. The process of extracting jatropha seeds is by cold pressing, which is separating the oil from the plant seeds by heating. Once collected, the oil is then purified again using heat power.

This oil is often found in many lip care products, such as lipsticks or lip balms. This is because castor oil contains monounsaturated ricinoleic acid which is also known as a humectant.

Humectants can keep skin moist by preventing water evaporation through the outer layer of skin. The potential of the humectant in castor oil is what many people use to treat skin problems and dry lips.

One of the studies on International Journal of Toxicology states that the use of castor oil is safe and does not cause irritation to human skin.

Side effects of castor oil for lip balm

Although there have been studies examining the safety of castor oil on the skin, the risk of side effects remains. As a study in the journal reports Contact Dermatitis.

The study found that some people experienced allergic reactions after using deodorants containing castor oil. Although it is rare, people with sensitive skin or have certain health problems, such as eczema, should be careful.

Side effects that may occur after using castor oil for lip or skin moisturizing include redness and itching. If you scratch an itchy area of ​​skin or lips, it can cause swelling and open sores.

Make a lip balm from castor oil

Apart from buying them at the store, you can also make lip balms that contain castor oil yourself at home. However, consider the benefits and side effects again. To do this, do a castor oil sensitivity test on your skin.

Apply a small amount of castor oil to the skin of your hands. After that, wait within 24 hours and see how it reacts on your skin.

If your skin is irritated, stop using castor oil for lip balm. On the other hand, if you don't experience any skin reactions, you can use castor oil.

North Carolina State University describes the following ingredients and steps for making lip balm from castor oil.

Equipment and materials required

• 1 teaspoon castor oil
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil.
• 1 teaspoon cocoa butter.
• 1/2 tablespoon beeswax.
• 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil
• Heat-resistant container, pot for boiling water, and fork.

The process of making castor oil for lip balm

• Combine the first four ingredients in a container.
• Prepare a saucepan and fill the water to 1/4 of it. Place the container containing the mixture and let it sit until the ingredients are crushed.
• After exhausting, use a fork to stir the ingredients until they are completely liquid and even.
• Add vitamin E oil and mix quickly. This oil acts as a natural preservative.
• Next, mix container and chill. You can use lip balm.

Make sure you pay attention to the cleanliness of the equipment and the quantities of materials used. If you have skin problems, you should first consult your doctor.