The Castor Oil Challenge

Castor oil is derived from castor seeds and can be used in a variety of ways. When it comes to hair, castor oil has much to offer because it:

• Is rich in antioxidants, proteins, minerals and vitamin E
• Contains antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties
• Locks moisture into the hair shaft and scalp

THE CHALLENGE

(for ALL hair types)

This challenge involves applying castor oil to your scalp for three consecutive months and documenting the changes in length and thickness of your hair.

Many women having done the challenge reported faster and thicker hair growth. Keep in mind that it is not possible to grow hair faster than genetically possible, but often times we do slow down our hair growth through poor nutrition and a not-so-good styling regiment. Castor oil is supposed to give your hair that boost it needs to keep it growing at an optimal rate.

Personally speaking, I was interested in this challenge because I wanted to achieve thicker hair. My hair is fine, long and thin. I did this challenge back in October 2010 and documented the results below.

First things first, I've posted few videos for anyone interested in doing the challenge. The first video in this thread explains how one should apply castor oil to the scalp. The two videos that follow document the results of a couple women who have started and completed the challenge. Below all of that are my results. Enjoy.

My Final Results

My Thoughts:

PROS:

It works! My hair grew about 3.5 inches from October 8th, 2010 to December 31st, 2010, which is just a little less than three months time. What is remarkable is the fact that my hair grew that well while I was not in the best shape or had the best health. During the time of the challenge so much was happening in my life that often times I would eat 1 meal a day, I didn't drink much water at all (that's a big no-no), and on top of it all, in November I caught the gastric flu from my kids. It completely wiped me out. I loss a bunch of weight as a result of the sickness and never really recouped it all back. In the last frame I am actually wearing my wedding band. That thing hasn't fit my finger since 2008!

CONS:

- I did not achieve the thickness I was looking for.

- Castor oil is the consistency of honey, which I'm not fond of, and requires an applicator bottle.

- Applying the oil to my scalp, and having to part long hair to do it, was tedious.

The Verdict:

Castor oil is a wonderful oil for the hair that I would continue to use. Honestly, I do not intend to oil my scalp with it (as I did for the challenge) but instead I would dilute it with extra virgin olive oil (yes, olive oil isn't just for cooking, it's actually sensational for your hair and skin) and use the mixture as a hot oil treatment. Although Castor oil works well, sometimes I just don't have the time or the energy to apply it to my entire scalp. For those of you who do not mind the regiment, I think you will be wonderfully pleased with the results.

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