Hydrogenated castor oil, also known as castor wax, is a derivative of castor oil that has undergone a process called hydrogenation. Castor oil is extracted from the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis).

In hydrogenation, hydrogen gas is passed through the castor oil in the presence of a catalyst, typically nickel or palladium. This process converts some of the unsaturated fatty acids present in castor oil into saturated fatty acids, resulting in a more solid consistency at room temperature.

The hydrogenation process increases the melting point of the oil, making it more suitable for various industrial applications such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and lubricants. Hydrogenated castor oil is often used as an emollient, thickening agent, or stabilizer in cosmetic formulations like lipsticks, creams, and lotions. Due to its properties as a solidifying agent, it can also be used in the production of candles, waxes, and polishes. Finally it is used in the production of among others adhesives, greases, plastic additives, pharmaceuticals, PVC internal lubricants, paints, resins, rubber processing aid and ethoxylates.