Chemically straightened hair needs regular deep conditioning treatments to restore moisture and shine lost during the relaxing process. The essential fatty acids in castor oil condition your hair by making it more supple and lustrous after hot oil treatments. You can also use castor oil when you massage your scalp and on your ends to prevent breaking and splitting. The best time to do castor oil treatments is at night before bed, but you can also use a little castor oil in the morning to seal in moisture on wet or dry hair.
Add 1 or 2 tbsp. of castor oil to a small heat-safe glass container. Place the container in a larger heat-safe bowl of hot water for five minutes to warm the oil. Divide your hair into four sections. Apply the oil along the length of your strands from the roots to the ends. Pile your hair on top of your head if it is long. Tie your hair in a silk scarf and allow the oil to penetrate overnight. Shampoo and condition hair in the morning.
Mix two or three drops of lavender essential oil with 2 or 3 tsp. of castor oil in a small glass container. Massage the warm oil into your scalp using the pads of your fingers. Apply gentle pressure to your scalp to promote stimulation. Cover your hair with a silk scarf. Repeat the process twice per week.
Pour approximately 1 tbsp. of castor oil into a small glass container. Apply a small amount of the oil approximately 1 inch at the ends of your hair. Tuck the oiled ends of your hair into a bun style to protect them. Repeat the process twice a week or as needed.
Work a cream or liquid moisturizer through your wet or dry hair. Pour three or four drops of castor oil into the palm of your hand. Rub your hands together, and then run them through your hair. Style your hair as desired.
Tip
You can warm castor oil for scalp massages and application to your ends if desired. If your hair is not long enough to make a bun, apply a little castor oil to your ends at night.
If pure castor oil is too thick for your scalp, blend it with light oils such as grapeseed or sunflower oil.
Warning
Carefully test warmed oil with a fingertip to make sure it's not too hot for your skin.
Don't use too much oil on your scalp or hair. Too much oil will weigh down your hair and cause scalp irritation.
Consult with a physician before using castor or essential oils if you are pregnant or nursing.
References
Writer Bio
Based in Reston, Va., Lydia King has been a writer and editor since 1996, working with diverse subject matter including law, government contracting, philosophy and career guidance. She completed a Bachelor of Arts in history at National University, where she is pursuing a Master of Arts in English and comparative literature.