Hydrogenated Castor Oil

This melted and then hydrogenated ingredient derived from castor oil gives cosmetics a natural scent and an emollient effect, making it ideal for everyday skincare.

During production, the liquid extracted from the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis) undergoes hydrogenation, which means hydrogen is added to it. This step turns the original oil into a solid, white, impermeable ointment, also known as castor wax. The resulting product is a pure vegetarian extract, ready for use in various types of cosmetics, from body creams to haircare products.

This ingredient works primarily by forming a protective film on the skin's surface, effectively moisturising it and restoring the skin barrier. It acts as an occlusive agent, helping to prevent the loss of the skin's own moisture. In cosmetic formulations, it is commonly used at concentrations ranging from 0,00007 % to 22 %, which are considered safe and non-irritating for human skin.

We recommend this ingredient particularly for dry, dehydrated and mature skin that needs extra hydration and repair. It is also suitable for sensitive skin, as it does not cause irritation or act as a sensitiser. Its emollient properties make it ideal for those struggling with cracked, dry skin.

A study documented in the “Final Report on the Safety Assessment”, published in the journal *International Journal of Toxicology*, states that hydrogenated castor oil acts as a skin-conditioning agent with an occlusive effect that significantly reduces water loss. The report explicitly states: “Hydrogenated Castor Oil functions as a skin-conditioning agent—occlusive” (Gottschalck and McEwen, 2004), confirming its ability to retain moisture in the skin.