Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a powerful occlusive agent that not only hydrates the skin and hair but also creates a protective barrier to prevent moisture loss. Also known as castor wax, this ingredient appears in the form of a white-yellow solid, flakes, or powder. It is the more stable form of castor oil that has a high melting point. Hydrogenated Castor Oil is widely used in personal care products due to its varied benefits ranging from hydrating and soothing the skin to binding and controlling the viscosity of formulations. It is also an excellent anti-aging ingredient. The chemical formula of Hydrogenated Castor Oil is C57H110O9.
Origin
Castor oil is derived from castor beans, also known as ricinus communis, which is native to India, China, and Brazil. This oil undergoes a hydrogenation process which involves reacting castor oil with hydrogen gas in the presence of a catalyst, typically nickel or palladium. During hydrogenation, unsaturated fatty acids present in castor oil undergo saturation, converting double bonds into single bonds. This results in a more solid and stable form of castor oil with improved oxidative stability and increased melting point. The resulting Hydrogenated Castor Oil is then purified to remove impurities and make it safe for use in cosmetics.
Safety profile
Hydrogenated Castor Oil is non-toxic and extremely safe for use on hair and skin. Some concerns arise due to the presence of ricin in castor seeds, from which it is derived. However, cosmetic-grade Hydrogenated Castor Oil is cleaned of all impurities and does not pose any risks. It is also non-comedogenic, providing a safe solution for hydration without clogging the pores. It is important to note that Hydrogenated Castor Oil does have adverse side effects if ingested in large quantities. Further, this ingredient is vegan, halal, and kosher-certified.