According to the countless on my FYP, there's a whole damn laundry list of supposed benefits for castor oil for hair growth. People swear by this to grow longer, , especially in Jamaican beauty routines and as a an ingredient in and DIY tutorials. “Castor oil is an affordable treatment if you’re looking to add shine, smooth flyaways, and condition your hair,” says hairstylist and certified trichologist .

But why? And can it *actually* ? Before you go slathering on a dropper-full of castor oil for hair growth, take it from the pros: Unfortunately, no, castor oil can't singularly make your hair grow (hi, quick reminder that nothing topical aside from , the active ingredient in , can!). But it help lock in the moisture on your scalp and ends to help create a healthy environment for optimal hair growth. I chatted with dermatologists and trichologists about everything castor oil for hair growth, including what it is, how it works, and how to properly use it at home to help grow longer hair.

Keep reading for all the details. What is castor oil? Castor oil is a vegetable oil derived from castor beans that’s usually colorless, but can also be yellow or deep brown, depending on how it’s made. Jamaican black castor oil is one of the more popular varieties and has a thicker consistency, due to the fact that it’s boiled with ash, giving it a warm, roasted scent.

"Castor oil is rich in anti-inflammatory fatty acids which increase circulation and may potentially speed up the ha.