Castor oil, a popular natural remedy known for its versatile benefits in skincare, haircare, and overall health, is a staple in many households. Maybe you've even got your grandma's castor oil bottle at the back of your cupboard! Like all natural oils, castor oil does have a shelf life, and it can expire.
Understanding how long castor oil lasts, what signs indicate it has gone bad, and how to store it properly are key to ensuring you get the most out of this potent oil.
The Shelf Life of Castor Oil
Castor oil is relatively stable compared to some other natural oils, thanks to its high content of the rare molecule ricinoleic acid, which has natural preservative properties. When unopened and properly stored castor oil can last up to five years.
However, once opened, its shelf life typically ranges from one to three years, depending on how it’s stored and whether it's been exposed to factors that can speed up its degradation, such as light, air, and heat.
Factors That Affect the Shelf Life of Your Castor Oil
1. Exposure to Light
UV rays from sunlight can break down the molecular structure of castor oil, causing it to deteriorate faster - especially when it's in plastic bottles.
2. Air Exposure
When castor oil is exposed to air, the process of oxidation begins. Oxidation leads to the breakdown of the oil's fatty acids, reducing its efficacy and causing it to go rancid over time.
3. Warm Temperatures
Heat accelerates the degradation of castor oil. Storing it in a warm place, like near a stove or in direct sunlight, can shorten its shelf life. Ideally, castor oil should be stored in a cool, dark place especially if you're lucky enough to live somewhere warm.
4. Purity and Processing
The purity of your castor oil and the method used to extract it also play a role. Cold-pressed castor oil like IAMA tends to last longer because it retains more of its natural antioxidants, which help prevent oxidation. On the other hand, refined castor oil may have a shorter shelf life due to the removal of some of these protective compounds during processing. All IAMA castor oil is cold pressed.
Signs That Your Castor Oil Has Expired
1. It has an Unpleasant Odor
Fresh castor oil has a mild, earthy scent. If your oil smells sour, musty, or unusually strong, it’s likely that it has gone rancid.
2. There is a Change in Colour or has darkened
While castor oil is typically pale yellow, an expired batch may darken or develop a cloudy appearance. This discoloration is a sign that the oil is breaking down.
3. It has an Altered Texture or has separated
Fresh castor oil is thick and smooth. If it becomes clumpy, or separates into different layers, it’s a sign that the oil has degraded.
4. It causes Skin Irritation or redness
Applying expired castor oil may cause irritation, redness, or an allergic reaction, even if you've used it before without issue. This is due to the breakdown of the oil's components, which can become irritating over time.
How to extend the shelf life of castor oil
Keep It in a Cool, Dark Place
Store your iAMA Castor Oil in a cabinet or pantry away from heat sources and direct sunlight. A temperature of around 50-70°F (10-21°C) is ideal.
Glass Bottles!
Glass is less reactive than plastic and will help preserve the oil’s quality. Plastic bottles often leech to the product overtime. Read more about why your castor oil should always be in a glass bottle on our blog.
Seal Tightly After Use
Always ensure the bottle is tightly sealed after each use to minimise air exposure, which can lead to oxidation.
Can Expired Castor Oil Be Used?
Once castor oil has expired, it’s best to discard it. Using expired oil can lead to skin irritation or reduced effectiveness. In some cases, rancid oil can produce free radicals which are harmful to your skin and can actually accelerate aging.
Castor oil is a valuable natural product that can provide numerous benefits for your skin, hair, and overall well-being, but like all natural oils, it does have a shelf life. By storing it properly and being mindful of the signs of expiration, you can ensure that you’re using it in its best condition. If you notice any changes in smell, colour, or texture, it’s time to replace your castor oil to continue enjoying its full benefits.
Thankfully, iAMA Castor Oil is:
♥ We are 100% pure with no added fragrances or chemicals.
♥ We are 100% hexane free.
♥ We are 100% cold pressed.
♥ We are 100% organic.
♥ We are 100% vegan.
♥ We are 100% ethically sourced.
♥ We are 100% recyclable.
♥ We are 100% handmade with love.
♥ We are 100% here for you on your castor oil journey.
If you're looking for a fresh bottle, in glass that is 100% organic and cold pressed buy IAMA castor oil today!
Try Our Organic, Cold Pressed Castor Oil Today!
If you're curious about using castor oil on your eyelids, give it a go. It's safe, natural and there are no side effects as long as you use a high-quality, 100% organic, cold-pressed castor oil like IAMA's.
P.S To help you get the most out of nature's golden elixir, with every purchase of IAMA Castor Oil, you'll receive our FREE user guide!
P.P.S Check out our favourite castor oil beauty blends, rituals and recipes here
If you're unsure about anything or just want to say hi, you can get in touch by emailing contact@iamawellness.com or alternatively, drop us a message on Insta.
