castor oil hair mask recipe

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL FOR RAPIDLY ACHIEVING LONGER, THICKER, AND LUSCIOUS HAIR

Looking to quickly achieve longer, thicker hair? While there’s no miracle solution for instant growth, this homemade hair growth oil can help accelerate the process. Packed with herbs and essential oils, this all-natural recipe is the result of years spent experimenting with effective methods for fast hair growth. It’s simple to make and highly effective.

There are plenty of so-called “fast hair growth secrets” out there—some work, while others don’t, and I’ve likely tried most of them! My journey into natural beauty began with a desire for longer, thicker hair. Like all my DIY beauty recipes, this hair growth oil stems from my personal experiences.

As a teen, I would spend hours hunting for herbs and supplements in specialty stores, diligently reading Long Hair Care Community forums, and testing various tips and remedies to grow my hair to hip length. In retrospect, I wish I’d focused less on superficial goals, but this quest provided valuable insights into the beauty industry, helping me cultivate discernment.

Whether you’re looking to combat hair loss, encourage regrowth after stress, or simply boost your hair growth, I hope this hair oil recipe helps you reach your goals.

CAN OILS REALLY HELP GROW YOUR HAIR FASTER?

The hair growth industry is booming, with countless new, exotic “fast hair growth oils” and magic serums promising to deliver your dream of long, mermaid-like locks.

However, the reality is that most carrier oils lack any truly magical properties for hair growth. In fact, using excessive amounts of the wrong oil can lead to issues like yeast overgrowth, exacerbating hair loss and scalp problems.

Take argan oil, for example. It was once hailed as the miracle hair growth oil, but its fatty acid profile is quite ordinary, resembling that of sesame or sunflower oil—neither of which have been shown to promote hair growth. (And I say this as someone who once relied on argan oil!)

That said, a few oils do genuinely support hair growth and thickness. When combined with certain herbs and essential oils—like rosemary and peppermint—you can create a more effective homemade hair growth oil.

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL BENEFITS + HOW IT WORKS

This homemade hair oil promotes natural hair growth in several effective ways:

  • Stimulates Scalp Blood Flow: Infused with powerful herbs and essential oils, this recipe enhances blood circulation to the scalp and hair follicles.
  • Modulates Hair Growth Phase: Castor oil activates prostaglandin pathways linked to the growth phase, accelerating hair growth.
  • Reduces Scalp Buildup: Massaging the oil into your scalp before washing helps loosen buildup that can clog hair follicles, similar to how cleansing oils keep facial pores clear.
  • Antioxidant Activity: The antioxidants in this DIY hair oil protect hair follicles and shafts from oxidative stress, supporting faster growth.
  • Antimicrobial Activity: Excess bacteria and yeast can cause issues like dandruff and scalp acne, hindering growth. The antibacterial herbs and essential oils in this recipe, such as rosemary oil, help maintain a balanced scalp environment.

Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s dive into how to make your own hair growth oil.

KEY HERBS FOR HAIR GROWTH

PEPPERMINT

Known for its cooling and soothing effects, peppermint oil is great for irritated scalps. Research suggests it may promote hair growth even more effectively than rosemary. Peppermint oil accelerates the hair growth phase and increases hair follicles, contributing to longer, thicker hair. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties also support scalp health.

WHITE WILLOW BARK

If you face scalp issues like dandruff or acne, white willow bark can be beneficial. It contains salicin, a natural anti-inflammatory and gentle exfoliant. While it doesn’t directly stimulate hair growth, it promotes a healthy scalp by soothing irritation, unclogging pores, and reducing buildup.

ROSEMARY

Rosemary-infused oil is a popular remedy for hair growth. Studies show it can be as effective as minoxidil without side effects. Rosemary stimulates blood flow to the scalp, nourishing hair follicles and encouraging both new and existing hair growth. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties help maintain a healthy scalp, while its antioxidants protect against oxidative stress, which can lead to hair loss.

GREEN TEA

Adding green tea leaves to your hair oil infuses it with antioxidants that support hair follicle health. Although caffeine and ECEG—key components for hair growth—are water-soluble and won’t transfer to oil, the antioxidants in green tea still provide benefits. Note that it can impart a deep green color to the oil, but it generally doesn’t stain hair.

These herbs are effective allies in your quest for longer, thicker hair, and incorporating them into your hair oil can enhance its benefits.

ESSENTIAL OILS FOR HAIR GROWTH

To enhance your herbal hair growth oil, consider adding essential oils for concentrated benefits. 

Peppermint and rosemary essential oils are particularly effective for promoting hair growth, and using both can provide optimal results. You can also create a blend with cedarwood, lavender, thyme, frankincense, myrrh, palmarosa, and nettle, all known for supporting hair growth and scalp health. 

Additionally, incorporating an essential oil blend like Beauty Within can further boost scalp health with its antifungal properties, making it a great addition to your scalp treatments and hair masks.

FAST HAIR GROWTH OIL INGREDIENTS

You’ll need just a few ingredients for this DIY hair growth oil:

  • Heat-stable carrier oil for herbal infusion
  • Cold-pressed castor oil
  • Dried, organic hair growth herbs
  • Growth-boosting essential oils
  • Vitamin E oil

You can choose to make this oil with essential oils, herbal infusion, or both. I prefer using both to maximize the plant’s benefits. If you’re short on time, simply mix the carrier oils with the recommended essential oils.

INGREDIENTS

  • J MAC BOTANICALS Organic Cold-Pressed Castor Oil
  • Starwest Botanicals Organic Rosemary Leaf
  • Simply Earth Rosemary Essential Oil
  • Vitamin E Oil from Forefront Health

CARRIER OIL OPTIONS

  • MCT oil
  • Fractionated coconut oil
  • Avocado oil
  • Jojoba oil
  • Olive oil

Using a stable carrier oil is crucial. Many common oils, like sweet almond and sunflower oil, contain unstable polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that break down with heat and light, losing their beneficial properties. Instead, opt for monounsaturated or saturated oils, which are more stable. I recommend MCT or fractionated coconut oil, especially if you have issues with yeast overgrowth, as MCT oil won’t feed Malassezia yeast.

Once you prepare the herbal-infused oil, dilute it with castor oil. Castor oil is well-regarded for hair growth due to its unique properties:

  • It mimics prostaglandins, extending the active hair growth phase and delaying the resting phase.
  • It conditions and prevents hair follicles from drying out.
  • It moisturizes and protects existing hair from breakage.
  • It has antibacterial and antifungal properties to maintain a healthy scalp.
  • It’s rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, which protect hair follicles from oxidative damage.

DIY HAIR GROWTH OIL RECIPE

INGREDIENTS

  • 47g herbal infused oil (see below for instructions)
  • 47g castor oil
  • 3.5ml peppermint essential oil
  • 3.5ml rosemary essential oil

HERBAL INFUSED OIL

  • 1 cup (200g) carrier oil (e.g., MCT, olive, or avocado oil)
  • ~3/4 cup dry herbs (e.g., rosemary, willow bark, peppermint, green tea)
  • 5ml (1 tsp) vitamin E oil

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Prepare Herbal Infused Oil:
    • Place dry herbs in a clean, heat-proof mason jar. Pour carrier oil over the herbs and add vitamin E oil. Stir gently to ensure herbs are fully submerged.
    • Seal the jar with a one-piece metal lid.
  • Infuse Oil:
    • In a slow cooker, place a hand towel at the bottom and fill with water to submerge the jar without leaking. Set to low and infuse for 8-12 hours, keeping water temperature between 50°C-71°C (120-160°F). Monitor closely to avoid overheating.
  • Strain Oil:
    • Once infused, let the oil cool. Strain out the herbs using cheesecloth or a sieve, pressing gently to extract all the oil. Be cautious of sharp herb pieces.
  • Combine Oils:
    • Mix equal parts of the herbal infused oil and castor oil. Add peppermint and rosemary essential oils, stirring well.
  • Store:
    • Transfer the final mixture to a glass dropper bottle for easy application.

Enjoy your homemade hair growth oil!

HOW TO MAKE HAIR OIL WITH ESSENTIAL OILS

Combine castor oil and a low-PUFA carrier oil (like fractionated coconut oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil) in equal parts. Add vitamin E and a hair growth essential oil blend to the mixture. Then, transfer it to a glass dropper bottle.

HOW TO USE HOMEMADE HAIR GROWTH OIL

To use the hair growth oil, apply it directly to your scalp using the dropper applicator, section by section, to ensure even coverage. After saturating your scalp, gently massage the oil in with your fingers or a jade gua sha comb to boost blood circulation to the follicles, promoting faster growth. If safe for you, you can also massage your scalp with your head upside down.

Leave the oil on for at least an hour or overnight, depending on your hair washing routine. When ready to wash it out, use conditioner first to help remove the castor oil, then follow with your regular shampoo. For added benefits, consider using a rosemary hair rinse or a pH-balancing vinegar rinse afterward.

CONCLUSION

DIY hair growth oil offers a natural and cost-effective solution for promoting hair growth and improving hair health. By combining essential oils known for their hair-nourishing properties with carrier oils that provide moisture and penetration, you can create a personalized hair treatment that addresses your specific needs. Remember to patch test the oil before applying it to your scalp to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions. Consistent use and proper application are key to achieving optimal results.

12 BEST PRODUCTS FOR 4C HAIR

Not every type of curl is made equal, despite the fact that all curly hair is gorgeous. Moisturization, definition, and hold are three of your main hair worries if you have 4C curls, as you are aware that your tightly coiled strands are more delicate and prone to breaking than any other curl type. We’ve put together a list of best products for 4c hair from online reviewers to help you navigate the thousands of curly hair products available on the market.

CAMILLE ROSE NATURALS SWEET GINGER CLEANSING RINSE

Finding a cleanser that doesn’t deplete hair of its natural (and essential) oils is crucial for kinky hair types, as sudsy shampoos and excessive cleaning can cause more harm than good. This is the reason why fans adore Camille Rose’s moisturizing shampoo. Curls adore the deep conditioning impact that the formula’s energizing combination of ginger and essential oils offers while nourishing hair.

SHEAMOISTURE CONDITIONER

Shea Moisture’s leave-in conditioner manages frizz and mends broken strands while softening and detangling hair. This Jamaican black castor oil and shea butter-infused formulation is perfect for people who frequently color or heat style their hair, as well as those with kinky, curly, or wavy natural styles. It nourishes, hydrates, and supports elasticity. Additionally, a small amount of peppermint extract stimulates the scalp and provides a revitalizing feeling on wash day. This is also an amazing leave-in conditioner for high-porosity hair.

NOT YOUR MOTHER’S CURL TALK DEFINING CREAM

This is probably one of the best curling creams for 4c hair that you can find out there as this curl cream is formulated with a blend of rice, keratin, amino acids, and enzymes. Try this formula even if your hair doesn’t normally retain moisture since we adore how softening and moisturizing it is. Users claim that it makes curls feel incredibly soft.

NATURALL CLUB ICE CREAM DEEP CONDITIONER

It may not seem worth the effort to deep condition, but we assure you that the results of this NaturAll treatment are so calming and hydrating that you will sense the difference. This recipe calls for raw avocado—a hair-drying, thirst-quenching hero—to be preserved in the freezer with other ingredients that are so fresh. Advice: Thaw the mask for approximately half an hour before rubbing it through your hair.

MIELLE ORGANICS SCALP & HAIR STRENGTHENING OIL

Remember to give your scalp the required attention when you’re taking care of your hair. With its nutrient-rich mix that comprises 30 essential oils (including mint and rosemary), a convenient dropper applicator, and most importantly, the potential to promote hair growth, this product has developed a cult-like following. On the other hand, you may find the perfume overpowering if you have a sensitive nose.

CAROL’S DAUGHTER CURL QUENCHING DEEP MOISTURE MASK

Dry and thirsty curls will thank you for this mask. Deeply penetrating the roots, this blend of coconut oil, coconut milk, mango butter, and murumuru butter makes hair smoother, glossier, and stronger. It also doesn’t hurt that it smells like mango coconut nirvana. However, the container may become a little filthy after a few uses.

CREME OF NATURE 7-IN-1 MIRACLE TREATMENT

Despite its updated appearance, the tried-and-true Cream of Nature 7-in-1 Miracle Treatment is still a favorite among 4C hair types. The creamy yet non-weighting product contains vitamin B-5 and Moroccan argan oil. It’s a reasonably priced multipurpose solution that may be used to detangle, condition, and protect your hair from heat. This is an excellent hair product for 4C hair if you’re the type who prefers not to have a bathroom full of them because it will moisturize, manage frizz, and leave your hair looking shiny.

CAROL’S DAUGHTER HAIR MILK CURL REFRESHER SPRAY

Your 4C hair may occasionally require a mid-week boost. With Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Curl Refresher, your locks will be redefined without feeling heavy. A few mists of the agave nectar-enriched mixture will replenish your curls and ensure that your hair remains stylish throughout the week. Those who are seeking wavy hair care products can also try out this one.

DARK AND LOVELY PROTECTIVE STYLES TENSION TAMER

You still need to provide your 4C hair with the required support even when it is styled in a protective manner. Because 4C hair is delicate, use Dark and Lovely Protective Styles Tension Tamer to relax your scalp if your bantu knots or braids seem too tight. The lotion’s recipe, which includes avocado, aloe, and peppermint oil, will provide you with comfort right away. Because it’s lighter than oil, it won’t leave any residue on your scalp. Applying it between your braids, straight on your parts, or even under a wig or weave is made simple by the small nozzle.

AS I AM JAMAICAN BLACK CASTOR OIL SHAMPOO

As I Am Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo leaves your hair smelling good and feeling nourished, unlike other shampoos that deplete your hair of its natural oils. The lotion adds hydration to your hair without drying it out in the winter and is light enough for summer use without weighing it down. The creamy shampoo creates a lather, penetrates the hair, and leaves it shining for low-porosity 4C curls. You don’t even need to wait for the conditioning process to disentangle because it offers excellent slip.

DEVACURL NO-POO DECADENCE

Although using standard shampoos on curly hair isn’t completely off-limits, using a mild cleaner has many advantages. With coily hair in mind, DevaCurl’s no-suds hair cleanser removes dirt, filth, and product build-up without drying out your strands. Every time you rinse, your curls will remain soft, hydrated, and well-defined. Although it is pretty expensive, we assure you, it is well worth every cent you spend.

PATTERN HEAVY CONDITIONER FOR COLLIES

Pattern has created a conditioner, especially for 4C hair types. Your curls will feel as smooth as silk after you shower thanks to this creamy, thick formula that applies like butter. Shea butter, safflower, and avocado oils are added to the conditioner’s recipe to hydrate hair deeply and prevent dryness. Some customers claim that there is insufficient slip for detangling, though.

ANN JACKIE’S LA LA DEFINING CURL CUSTARD

With Aunt Jackie’s Curl La La Defining Curl Custard, wave goodbye to unmanageable curls. Mega-moisture humectants in this product give your coils and spirals more definition. Simply use your fingers to style your hair after liberally applying this product. Stretch your hair lightly while applying protective styling to elongate your curls, or use a diffuser. After letting the product air dry, you’ll have gorgeous curls that you may style however you choose. 

Are recurring knots damaging your hair and stressing out your curls? Alright, Knot Today! Look at what we just did! Unlike our puns, this herbal conditioner works every time for kinky hair types. If you have 4C tightly coiled hair that is hard to detangle, this is just what you need. Apply as soon as you remove the shampoo, then use a wide-tooth comb to work through your knots. It makes the texture of the hair more manageable and smoother. However it could take longer to get the desired outcomes.

TGIN HONEY MIRACLE HAIR MASK

Your curls may be drying out. To keep your hair smooth, you might want to start using less harsh chemical-containing products and instead try this Tiny Honey Miracle Hair Mask. The olive and jojoba oils in this solution nurture and mend damaged hair. This product, which is enhanced with raw honey, leaves your hair feeling smooth and shiny while deeply conditioning it. 

MESSEN DETANGLE BRUSH

It might be challenging to find hair items for 4C hair, particularly something as simple as a comb. Is the brush for your hair your biggest nightmare? One of the most difficult things about having curly hair is trying to untangle your tightly coiled hair. Well, with this Messen untangle Brush you can untangle hair without straining your curls. Its eight rows of divided bristles promise less shedding and soreness when combing your hair. Your hair will dry faster thanks to the top’s hollowing down shape, which promotes airflow. A secure and comfortable grip is guaranteed by the non-slip rubber handle. There is a size control bar attached to this product.

FINAL TAKEAWAY

Nothing is more curly and collier than the 4C hair type when it comes to curls. The type 4 group includes the majority of Afro hairs. However, the zigzag pattern and tight coils of the 4C hair type set it apart. The majority of 4C hair is extremely dry in texture and packed tightly. gaining the reputation of having terrible and troublesome hair as a result. But relax! We are here to provide you with advice on 4C hair care. With the perfect upkeep and care, you may get the ideal 4C haircut.