Castor Oil for Dry Skin, Cracked Heels and Winter Care

Winter dryness hits hardest on the heels, elbows, knuckles and cuticles. Castor oil – thick, rich and slow to absorb – is a traditional answer for these tough spots.

Why castor oil works for dry spots

Its thickness forms a protective layer that holds moisture in, which is exactly what very dry, cracked skin needs. It is rich in ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid unique to castor.

Overnight heel routine

1. Soak feet in warm water for 10 minutes.
2. Gently scrub with a pumice stone and pat dry.
3. Massage a few drops of castor oil, mixed with a little virgin coconut oil to make it easier to spread.
4. Put on cotton socks and leave overnight.
5. Repeat nightly for a week, then 2–3 times a week.

Elbows and knees

Massage a few drops after your bath, while skin is still damp.

Cuticles and nails

Rub a tiny drop into each nail bed at night.

Lips

A thin layer of castor oil at night helps very dry, chapped lips. Use food-grade, pure castor oil.

Tips

• Castor is very thick – a little goes a long way.
• Mix 1:1 with coconut or almond oil for larger areas.
• Patch test first.
• Deep, painful or bleeding cracks should be seen by a doctor, especially for people with diabetes.

Castor oil is also a hair-care favourite – read how to use castor oil for hair.