Is castor oil a natural solution for acne?

The primary reason for consulting a dermatologist is acne is a chronic inflammatory condition linked to hormonal changes, presenting as inflammation of the pilosebaceous follicles. It is accompanied by pimples on the face, chest, and/or back. It occurs with oily skin. Its psychological impact is significant but overlooked. Acne is a visible skin condition that can cause low self-confidence and psychological distress. On a biological level, acne is mediated by three factors: the secretion of sebum with high viscosity (dyseborrhea) or excess volume (hyperseborrhea) that clogs pores, accelerated cell turnover leading to dead cell buildup on the skin surface and pore blockage, and proliferation of the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes, which feeds on sebum and releases proinflammatory compounds.

Despite some reports, the use of castor oil undiluted is not recommended for acne.

Although it is not considered comedogenic, castor oil is a plant oil with a dense texture. Applying it to acne-prone areas could weigh down the hydrolipidic film and promote impurity retention. If you want to use a pure plant oil but have blemishes, we recommend choosing a lighter oil, such as jojoba oil or hazelnut oil, which can hydrate and nourish the skin without leaving a greasy film on its surface.

In addition, the belief that castor oil may help acne stems from its antibacterial effects. A recent study evaluated its inhibitory action on C. acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis, another microbe sometimes linked to acne, from castor oil, its fatty acids, and its oxidized fatty acids. The disk diffusion method was used. Disks soaked in castor oil, its fatty acids, or their oxidized forms were placed on agar plates inoculated with bacteria. After incubation, the inhibition zone diameter around the disks was measured to indicate antibacterial potency. The results are presented in the table below and indicate that pure castor oil cannot act against acne-causing bacteria.