Castor seeds (Ricinus communis) with mottled brown and cream shells arranged in a pile on a blush background.

Ricinus Communis Seed Oil

Castor Oil

Castor Oil is a rich seed oil for skin that feels tight and irritated at the same time.
Locks moisture in: ricinoleic acid works as a humectant, so your skin holds water for longer.
Calms irritated skin: the same ricinoleic acid is anti-inflammatory, so it soothes while it hydrates.
Supports your skin barrier: omega fatty acids help strengthen skin that feels thin and reactive.

INCI:

Ricinus Communis Seed Oil

Derivation:

🌰 Seed

Country of origin:

🌍 Africa

Name in Mexico:

Aceite de ricino

Castor seeds (Ricinus communis) with mottled brown and cream shells arranged in a pile on a blush background.

Castor Oil

Why we use it

What makes castor oil unusual is how much of it is one thing: ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid you find in almost no other plant oil. That single compound does two jobs at once, holding water in your skin and calming it at the same time, which is why skincare has used castor oil for so long on skin that is both dry and easily upset. Alongside it sit oleic and linoleic acids, and the omega fatty acids that support your barrier and leave skin feeling supple rather than just covered. You will find it in the Removing Balm - Mamey, Guayaba & Aguacate and in the Anti-Aging Mask - Achiote & Papaya, where it keeps the clay from drying your skin out while the mask works.

Suitable for

All skin types

Targets

Dryness, Barrier Support, Look of Redness

Benefits

Hydrating and Anti-inflammatory

Studies

Our approach to ingredients

At Viva Maia, we create skincare that brings together the rich heritage of pre-Hispanic traditions and modern scientific insight. Our formulations are made with 100% natural ingredients, carefully chosen for their proven effectiveness and their respect for the environment. Inspired by Mexico’s extraordinary biodiversity, we work with potent, sustainably sourced botanicals. Many of these ingredients are cultivated by us and transformed in-house into extracts, powders, and oils, crafted with care and attention to quality.

Back to ingredient dictionary