If you want thicker, longer lashes, applying castor oil to eyelashes daily might help. This beloved beauty trick can help extend sparse eyelashes, and it can be used to promote eyebrow growth. Stop wasting money on overpriced eyelash growth serums and turn to a natural remedy. Below, find out why applying castor oil to eyebrows and eyelashes is so effective.

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What Is Castor Oil?
Castor oil is derived from the seeds of the castor plant, which is found in India and Africa. This oil is famous for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and it contains a number of minerals and vitamins that benefit the hair, skin, and body.

Why Does It Help Skin and Hair?
Applying castor oil to eyelashes and eyebrows promotes the growth of lashes and brows. That's because castor oil is rich in nutrients, creating an ideal environment for hair growth.

Castor oil contains vitamin E, for example, which is a potent antioxidant. This can protect the skin from environmental toxins that can lead to unwanted damage. It also contains fatty acids, which help to heal and reduce inflammation. Together, these nutrients hydrate the skin and get rid of the environmental irritants that prevent healthy lash and brow growth.

How Do I Use It on Eyelashes and Eyebrows?
Using castor oil on eyelashes and eyebrows is relatively simple. All you need is a high-quality castor oil product, like Shea Moisture 100% Pure Jamaican Black Castor Oil Head to Toe Restoration, $8.99. You may also want to use a small eyeliner brush, like E.L.F. Studio Angled Eyeliner Brush, $3. Using a fine brush makes application of the castor oil to eyelashes easier. It also cuts down on any mess.

For best results, you should apply castor oil to eyebrows and eyelashes before bedtime. This gives the oil hours to sink into the skin and allows it to fully penetrate the area around the lashes and brows.

Before you begin your application, make sure your face is completely clean. Remove any makeup from around your eyes, and use a makeup-removing product if necessary. Clinique Take the Day Off Makeup Remover, $19, can dissolve even the toughest eye makeup products.

Once your face is freshly scrubbed, dip the eyeliner brush into the castor oil. Shake the brush slightly to remove any excess oil, and then apply a thin line of castor oil to your eyebrows and eyelashes. Swipe the castor oil onto eyelash lines, both the top and the bottom. Take care not to get any into your eye. If you do, use water to flush the oil out of your eyes.

After applying the oil to your eyelashes, take the brush and apply the castor oil to your eyebrows. If you have sparse areas, make sure to pay special attention to those spots.

Does It Really Work?
Many people find castor oil to be an effective hair growth aid. By providing lashes and brows with the nourishment they need, castor oil is a great way to naturally strengthen and grow hair. Try castor oil for eyebrows and lashes, and see if it makes your eyes look photo-ready!