Myth or reality: Mixing Castor Oil with Eggs really help in hair growth?

Time of India

3 hours ago

When it comes to DIY hair care, some ingredients have earned cult status - castor oil and eggs being two of them. Scrolling through beauty reels or old-school remedies passed down by grandmothers, you'll often come across the suggestion to mix castor oil with eggs for boosting hair growth.
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But does this combination really work, or is it just another beauty myth with little science behind it?
Let's break it down and see whether this sticky, protein-rich mask is worth trying or skipping.
Why Castor Oil has cult hair status
Thick, glossy, and incredibly sticky, castor oil is derived from the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis). It has long been used in traditional medicine and beauty rituals, particularly in Indian and African cultures.
Castor oil is rich in ricinoleic acid, a type of omega-9 fatty acid that is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. When massaged into the scalp, ricinoleic acid helps improve blood circulation, which may stimulate the hair follicles and potentially encourage growth. Its dense consistency also helps seal in moisture, making it a favourite among those battling dry, brittle hair.
Moreover, castor oil is rich in vitamin E, minerals, and proteins—factors that contribute to stronger hair strands and a healthier scalp environment.
The power of Eggs in hair care
Now, let's talk eggs. Eggs are often hailed as a natural protein treatment, especially for damaged or chemically treated hair. The yolk contains fats and proteins that help condition the hair, while the white is rich in enzymes that remove excess oil.
Eggs are packed with nutrients like:
Biotin (Vitamin B7) – known to improve keratin structure in the hair.
Lecithin – a natural emollient that helps repair dry, brittle strands.
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Sulphur – essential for producing keratin and collagen, vital for healthy hair and skin.
All these components work together to nourish the scalp, strengthen hair shafts, and prevent breakage.
Mixing Castor Oil and Eggs: Do they really work together?
Here's where things get interesting. Individually, both castor oil and eggs have properties that can support hair health. But when mixed together, the mask becomes a powerhouse of:
Protein (from eggs) for repairing hair strands
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Moisture and fatty acids (from castor oil) to deeply condition
Improved scalp circulation (from the massage) to encourage growth
When applied as a hair mask, the mixture may help reduce hair breakage, add shine, and improve overall texture.
While scientific studies on this specific combination are limited, anecdotal evidence from thousands of users suggests visible improvement in hair strength and thickness with consistent use.
How to make and use the Castor Oil + Egg hair mask
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon castor oil
1 whole egg (for normal to dry hair)
Use only the egg white if you have oily hair
Optional additions:
1 teaspoon coconut oil or olive oil for extra softness
A few drops of essential oil (like rosemary or tea tree) to mask the eggy smell
Steps:
Whisk the egg and oil(s) in a bowl until you get a smooth paste.
Section your hair and apply the mask using a brush or fingers, focusing on the roots and scalp.
Cover your hair with a shower cap to trap heat.
Leave it on for 30–45 minutes.
Rinse with cool or lukewarm water (never hot—it cooks the egg!) and follow with a mild shampoo.
Pro Tip: Do this once a week for best results. Overdoing it can lead to protein overload, making hair stiff or dry.
Myth or reality?
Reality with a few caveats.
Mixing castor oil with eggs for hair growth is more than just a folk remedy.
While there's no conclusive scientific evidence proving it directly causes faster hair growth, there's plenty of support for its ability to improve hair health, which in turn creates the right environment for growth.
Hair growth is influenced by many factors—genetics, hormones, diet, stress, and scalp health—so no one remedy will be a miracle cure. But this natural mask can certainly be part of a holistic hair care routine, especially if your strands are damaged, weak, or dry.
DIY beauty has its appeal, especially when the ingredients are already in your kitchen. The castor oil and egg hair mask is not a guaranteed miracle, but it is a time-tested treatment that hydrates, nourishes, and strengthens hair. If you're looking for a chemical-free alternative to salon treatments, this mask is a low-risk, budget-friendly option that just might deliver that healthy, enviable shine.
As always, do a patch test before using any new treatment, and consult a dermatologist or trichologist if you're experiencing significant hair loss or scalp issues.