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The simplicity of this castor oil hair mask is unrivaled. I have been using this hair mask for quite some time now and cannot believe the results! My hair looks and feels amazing.

Combing the castor oil hair mask into my hair.
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It’s time to switch up your hair care routine!

After all, in this post, I’m sharing the secret to utterly gorgeous, luscious locks, and it’s simpler than you think.

I’m talking about a hydrating castor oil hair mask, and, as someone who’s struggled with dry and damaged hair in the past, I’ll say firsthand that this mask is a game-changer.

Castor Oil Hair Mask recipe

Ingredients:

How to make a castor oil hair mask

When I say simple, I mean simple. Melt the coconut oil in the microwave or small saucepan and mix it with the castor oil.

That’s it! It’s so simple that I usually just make enough for a single use. Though it will last for ages in an airtight container, so feel free to make as much of it as you want.

Dipping the tips of my fingers into the hair mask.

How to use a Castor Oil Hair Mask 

There are two ways to use this hair mask. You can use it as a rinse-off hair mask or an overnight hair mask.

It really depends on your specific hair type.

Rinse off hair mask.

Step 1: Apply a few drops of the hair mask to damp hair after shampooing.

Working the castor oil hair mask into the strands of my hair.

Step 2: Comb it through to distribute it evenly. 

Using a comb to evenly distribute it throughout the hair.

Step 3: Let it sit for several minutes on your hair before rinsing it out and drying your hair as usual. 

Use as a leave-in conditioner.

Alternatively, you can leave it on your hair overnight (with a shower cap on so it doesn’t spread on your bedsheets) for a deep conditioning mask.

Rinse the mask out in the morning and, shampoo and condition it like normal.

Note: You might find you need to wash your hair a couple of times to remove the mask completely. Your hair will feel utterly amazing after this, believe me!

Putting on a shower cap to keep the hair mask from spreading.

What is castor oil?

Castor oil is one of nature’s best ingredients. It’s a thick, somewhat sticky oil made from the seeds of the castor plant. 

Castor oil is naturally rich in fatty acids, which work wonders on hair that needs a touch of TLC. 

It’s been used in a number of beauty products for centuries, known in particular for its moisturizing and nourishing properties on the hair. 

When applied, castor oil helps strengthen and hydrate your hair, leaving you with soft, shiny, beautiful locks. 

Getting a bit more of the castor oil onto my fingers for the hair.

Benefits of castor oil for the hair

Hair hydration: The hydrating properties of castor oil really work well on the hair. Not only does it moisturize the hair, but it also works like a hair butter to reduce frizz and flyaways.

Detangling: Do you struggle to get a comb through your hair after washing it? Then castor oil will make hair brushing a breeze. Hair comes out detangled after rinsing, probably because of the high level of nourishment from the castor oil itself. 

Scalp benefits: Castor oil helps soothe dry scalps and reduce flaky bits as it works on your hair. It’s worthwhile massaging some of the mask into the roots of your hair so the oils sit on the scalp while you’re using it. 

Eco-friendly: Castor oil is all-natural and biodegradable, so you can use it without worrying about harming the environment. It’s also cruelty-free and vegan-friendly!

How often should I use a castor oil hair mask?

If your hair is dry, I suggest using it once a week. If you have normal-ish hair or oilier hair, then once or twice a month would be more than enough. 

Working more of the hair mask onto the tips of my hair.

What are the benefits of coconut oil for the hair?

The coconut oil in this recipe works in harmony with the castor oil, helping to dilute it to a more manageable hair mask. 

Castor oil is quite thick on its own, but when combined with coconut oil, it turns into a glorious elixir that is easier to apply to the hair. 

Coconut oil, too, is rich in natural fats, which work to add moisture and condition to the hair. Plus, it leaves a gorgeous tropical scent, which is hard to beat!

Does castor oil help the hair grow?

Sadly, no scientific evidence suggests that castor oil improves hair growth. 

Nonetheless, dermatologist Audrey Kunin mentions that the healthy fats in Castor oil may improve the condition of the scalp, which could indirectly help the hair’s condition and strength as it grows from the root. 

How should I store this castor oil hair mask?

You can pour any leftovers into a bottle and store it with the lid on for up to 6 months. 

Keep it away from heat, light, and humidity to prevent it from spoiling before you use it again. 

Holding my fingers above the container to allow the hair mask to drip back into the jar.

Troubleshooting tips

We all love a good hair mask, but sometimes they go wrong. Here are a few troubleshooting tips to help you fix any potential issues!

Hair feels greasy

If your hair feels greasy and heavy after using a castor oil mask, you’ve probably used too much. To get rid of that greasy feeling, simply use a homemade natural shampoo and rinse your hair a couple more times. (Try using less next time, too.)

Hair feels heavy after using the mask.

If your hair feels heavy, it might just need a little more time to wash out. My suggestion would be to use it less frequently. You can also use a DIY clarifying shampoo.

Unless your hair is unusually dry, most people benefit from using a hydrating hair mask like this less frequently.

My hair is naturally greasy. Will this work?

I wouldn’t suggest this recipe for naturally greasy hair. You may benefit more from my aloe vera hair mask or include a hair rinse, like this homemade rosemary water for hair rinse, in your beauty routine.

Combing the hair mask into my hair.

Summary

If you’re looking for a hydrating hair mask, try this castor oil hair mask recipe. It’s affordable, easy to apply, and easy to make, and it works wonders on dry, damaged hair in particular.  

Just be sure to use it in moderation – a little goes a long way!

If you try this recipe, please consider leaving a review in the comments section so I can hear how it was for you!

What to read next.

5 from 1 vote

Hydrating Castor Oil Hair Mask

Prep: 2 minutes
Active: 2 minutes
Total: 4 minutes
Yield: 0.75 ounces
Transform your hair care with a homemade remedy! Learn how to make a Hydrating Castor Oil Hair Mask for luscious, deeply conditioned hair.

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
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Ingredients 

Instructions 

  • Melt the coconut oil in the microwave or small saucepan and combine it with the castor oil.
  • Apply to damp hair after shampooing.
  • Comb it through to distribute it evenly.
  • Let it sit for several minutes on your hair before rinsing it out and drying it as normal.

Notes

You can leave it on your hair overnight (with a shower cap on so it doesn’t spread on your bedsheets) for a deep conditioning mask.
Rinse the mask out in the morning and, shampoo and condition it like normal.
If your hair is dry, I suggest using it once a week. If you have normal-ish hair or oilier hair, then once or twice a month would be more than enough. 
Tried this recipe?Mention @our_oily_house or tag #ouroilyhouse!

About Laura

Welcome to Our Oily House, I’m so glad you’re here! Explore DIY cleaners, homemade soaps, skincare and hair care recipes, fragrance-free solutions, and sustainable laundry tips for a naturally inspired home.

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5 from 1 vote (1 rating without comment)

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2 Comments

  1. Janetta Strieder says:

    Hi Laura,
    I haven’t used this recipe yet, I will be getting the castor oil today.
    My question is, can you put Rosemary or lavender EO in this? I noticed you didn’t add any and thought I would ask if there was a reason. Thanks girl for all your hard work and sharing these tips and tricks with us!
    Fellow Missourian here!

    1. Laura says:

      Hi, You definitely could add those in! Totally personal preference.