Sulfated Castor Oil
Also known as: Turkey Red Oil
What is Sulfated Castor Oil?
Castor oil that has been treated with sulfuric acid, making it water-soluble. Also known as Turkey Red Oil, it was one of the first synthetic detergents.
Why is it used in products?
It acts as a surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer that helps disperse oils in water-based products, popular in bath oils and textile processing.
Why does it clog pores?
Sulfated castor oil leaves an oily, surfactant-laden residue on skin that blocks pore openings. The sulfation process creates compounds that irritate the follicular lining, promoting inflammation and comedone formation. Its ability to deposit oil into aqueous environments means it can deliver pore-clogging lipids even from water-based products.
Commonly found in
- bath oils
- hair products
- cleansers
- body washes