11 of the best castor oils for hair growth and a healthy scalp
Organic pure castor oil: Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil
Pre-shower scalp treatment: Fable & Mane HoliRoots Prewash Hair Treatment Oil
No-rinse conditioning blend: Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength Scalp and Hair Oil Helping to keep strands hydrated and soothe the scalp, castor oil is commonly found in many hair care products and standalone treatments. Rumors have swirled in online communities that castor oil, much like rosemary oil, not only helps hair look and feel healthier, but it can make it grow faster too. To help investigate these claims, we tapped board-certified dermatologists to better understand castor oil's benefits, how it works and whether it can truly help with hair growth.
Keryòl Essence Haitian Black Castor Oil
Dr. Dara Spearman, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates in Fort Wayne, Indiana, said you can use this richly textured oil as a deep conditioner to treat damaged hair. Harvested and hand-processed in Haiti, this oil can be used on the scalp, hair, skin and beard for adding extra moisture.
Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil
Made with a combination of rosemary, mint, castor and other essential oils, this Mielle treatment helps boost circulation to the scalp, which Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, said helps stimulate hair follicles, aiding in hair growth and thickening. Though your results may vary for hair growth, this under-$10 oil is an affordable option for those curious to try castor oil for themselves.
Fable & Mane HoliRoots Prewash Hair Treatment Oil
Made with castor oil and ashwagandha, an antioxidant and adaptogen that's believed to lower stress hormones, this Fable & Mane oil is a favorite of Dr. Michele J. Farber, a board-certified dermatologist from Philadelphia. Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, is also a fan, noting that the blend also contains dashmool — a combination of Indian herbs that help to calm the scalp.
Nioxin Night Density Rescue Treatment
Garshick recommends this clinically proven hair treatment for those looking to thicken their hair. It contains castor oil, along with a blend of antioxidants, biotin and hydrating panthenol. Use it as an overnight leave-in treatment and with consistent use, you should notice less shedding and hair fall.
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density
While you can use standalone castor oil, you'll see it formulated into other hair care products, like this serum from The Ordinary. The water-based formula is lightweight but packed with peptides, antioxidants, vitamins, humectants and conditioners that work to support overall scalp and hair health. In addition to castor oil, this blend also contains caffeine, which Garshick said aids in boosting the scalp's circulation.
Sky Organics Organic Castor Oil
Farber likes this pure cold-pressed castor oil from Sky Organics, which is made for the scalp, hair and other uses. Beauty and fashion editor Sophie Shaw is also a fan of this organic castor oil and likes the eyelash serum kit that comes with applicators for the brows and lashes.
ArtNaturals Organic Rosemary & Castor Hair Growth Oil and Scalp Massager Set
This scalp set from ArtNaturals comes with a blend of castor and rosemary oils, and a scalp massager that Spearman said can help further enhance circulation to the head.
Ceremonia Aceite de Moska Scalp Oil
Suitable for all hair types, this silicone-free scalp oil is made to treat common scalp concerns like dryness and itchiness. You can use it one to two times a week as a pre-shower treatment, or if you have an extra-dry scalp, you can leave the oil on overnight and wash it out in the morning.
Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil
Infused with 13 oils, including castor, sea buckthorn, baobab, argan and sweet almond, this nourishing hair oil from Beyoncé's Cécred hair care line comes recommended by Camp for its ability to seal in moisture, ensuring hair stays hydrated, soft and flexible.
Briogeo Curl Charisma Organic and Cold-Pressed 100% Castor Oil
'This cold-pressed castor oil contains humectants, vitamin E and omega fatty acids, which work together to keep the hair healthy and hydrated,' Garshick said. 'It can be used on the hair, as well as eyebrows and eyelashes.'
Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength Scalp and Hair Oil
With a no-rinse application, this Carol's Daughter hair oil is made to be spread over the scalp after hair washing. The lightweight formula is gentle enough to use daily, and the nozzle-tip applicator makes it easy to apply the seven oil blend directly to the scalp. Unlike some oils that are composed mostly of fats, castor oil is rich in protein, antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients. 'As a result, it can be helpful for the skin, scalp and hair,' Garshick said. 'Castor oil provides hydration and conditions the hair since it's rich in ricinoleic acid and fatty acids, which serve as natural emollients for the hair.'
Spearman added that the ricinoleic acid has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help keep the scalp clean while the emollients in castor oil prevent dryness and improve hair texture.
Despite all of its great features, there's no concrete clinical evidence to support castor oil's ability to grow hair. However, because of castor oil's antimicrobial and antifungal properties, it can help to nourish the scalp and create a healthy environment for hair to grow, which is why Garshick said there are some anecdotal tales of people noticing an improvement in their hair after using it. Farber added that castor oil is also humectant, meaning it helps to reduce moisture loss that can lead to hair breakage.
Though there are medications like minoxidil and finasteride that can help increase hair growth, some people prefer natural treatments like oils since they're more affordable, more accessible and made without synthetic chemicals. Though, Camp said you should see a board-certified dermatologist if you're experiencing hair loss that does not respond to over-the-counter treatments or is negatively impacting your quality of life.
After drying and detangling your hair, section it and apply castor oil to the scalp and hair using your finger or a small applicator. If you're new to castor oil, Farber recommends starting with a small amount of oil and leaving it on for only 15 to 20 minutes to prevent clogging pores around the hair follicles. Depending on the specific formulation and what your hair and scalp can tolerate, you can leave castor oil on for several hours or even overnight, according to Garshick.
Spearman said some people prefer to leave the oil on overnight for better absorption into the scalp, but she recommends covering your hair with a towel or shower cap to protect your bedding. If you're applying oil during the day, Spearman said to leave it on for one to two hours in order to reap the benefits without risking irritation or buildup. 'The frequency of applying castor oil typically depends on your hair type, but usually applying one to two times per week is enough to benefit from its effects without causing excessive buildup,' Spearman said.
The following FAQs have been answered by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Brendan Camp, Dr. Dara Spearman and Dr. Joshua Zeichner.
What is castor oil?
What is castor oil?
Castor oil is created by cold-pressing the seeds or beans of the castor plant, which is commonly found in regions of Africa, India and South America. 'Castor oil is loaded with ricinoleic acid, a potent antioxidant that protects the skin from free radical damage that causes collagen damage and wrinkles,' Zeichner said. 'It contains fatty acids [that] naturally have emollient benefits to hydrate and soothe the skin.'
How long will it take castor oil to grow hair?
How long will it take castor oil to grow hair?
Camp said you might notice softer, more hydrated or flexible hair after one to two weeks of using castor oil or castor oil-based hair care products. For hair growth, you should use castor oil regularly for at least three to four months before deciding whether or not it's an effective treatment for you. Remember, hair grows slowly at around a half-inch per month.
Results can also depend on hair type. Spearman said some people might see improvements in hair health and texture after just a few weeks, but more noticeable changes usually occur after around three to six months of consistent application.
What are the disadvantages of castor oil on hair?
What are the disadvantages of castor oil on hair?
Castor oil is generally well-tolerated by most people, but any topical treatment risks irritating the skin. 'There have been some allergic reactions to castor oil noted, which may lead to a chance of getting allergic dermatitis,' Garshick said. 'Overuse and improper hair washing of the castor oil may also lead to buildup, which may contribute to irritation and breakouts.'
With this in mind, it's always a good idea to patch test some product on a small area of skin before using castor oil all over your scalp. You should also deeply wash your hair and scalp to make sure no oil is left behind post-treatment. Spearman said that if you have fine hair, you may want to be careful of thick oil formulations that can be more likely to clog pores and weigh hair down.
What will happen if I leave castor oil on my hair for too long?
What will happen if I leave castor oil on my hair for too long?
Overuse of castor oil can lead to clogged pores, greasy hair or scalp irritation, according to Spearman. She also said that in some cases, castor oil can lead to hair felting, where the hair becomes irreversibly tangled and matted. Other risks include redness, itching, rashes and allergic reactions. Camp also cautions that any oil-based product may exacerbate acne in those with oily or acne-prone skin.
Is it safe to use castor oil on eyebrows?
Is it safe to use castor oil on eyebrows?
Spearman said it's common for people to use castor oil for eyebrow and beard hair, though you should patch test beforehand to check for signs of skin irritation. If you are applying castor oil to your eyebrows, you only need to use a small amount and should avoid any contact with the eyes or eye area. A Q-tip or clean brow spoolie can be helpful for getting a more precise application.
For this article, we consulted the following dermatologists to gain their professional insights.
Dr. Brendan Camp, a double board-certified dermatologist at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery
Dr. Michele J. Farber, a board-certified dermatologist from Philadelphia.
Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City
Dr. Dara Spearman, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates in Fort Wayne, Indiana
Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City,
CNN Underscored has a team of writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Jillian Tracy consulted five dermatologists to better explain how castor oil can benefit your hair and scalp.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
14 hours ago
- Yahoo
Testosterone Booster for Muscle Gain: Men Opt for OTC Supplement Form Natural Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) Treatment in 2025
TestoPrime New York City, NY, July 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A recent survey shows that TestoPrime is widely regarded by men as the and the top choice for muscle-building results in the United States. In 2025, the pursuit of muscle mass and optimal health continues to drive innovation in the supplement world. For decades, men wanting to boost muscle growth, energy, and performance have turned to testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) as a solution for declining male hormone levels. Traditionally, TRT meant doctor-prescribed injections, gels, or patches—methods that, while effective, come with drawbacks like cost, inconvenience, and potential side effects. Enter the new era: pill form testosterone booster supplements for TRT. Over-the-counter, non-prescription supplements offer safe, natural alternatives for men looking to enhance their testosterone and, with it, muscle gains, recovery, and vitality. At the forefront of this revolution is TestoPrime, a brand rapidly becoming synonymous with natural testosterone therapy and transformative article will explore the science behind testosterone and muscle mass, the shift toward oral supplements. Read why TestoPrime is emerging as the number one choice for natural TRT for men in 2025. The Role of Testosterone in Muscle Growth and Men's Health Why Testosterone Matters Testosterone is the primary male hormone, responsible not only for hormonal male health but also for a host of bodily functions vital to muscle mass, strength, mood, and energy. As men age—or due to lifestyle factors—testosterone levels can decline, leading to: Reduced muscle mass and strength Increased body fat Lower energy and motivation Decreased libido and performance Mood changes such as irritability or depression Slower recovery from workouts Testosterone and Muscle Mass: The Science Muscle tissue is highly responsive to testosterone. The hormone's anabolic effects promote: Protein synthesis: Boosting the rate at which muscle fibers repair and grow after exercise. Nitrogen retention: A key factor in muscle recovery and growth. Red blood cell production: Enhancing oxygen delivery to muscles during training. Fat distribution: Helping to maintain a leaner physique. Low testosterone levels make it harder to gain or even maintain muscle, no matter how hard you train. Introducing TestoPrime: The Leader in Pill Form TRT Testosterone treatmentRead why doctors and clinicians recommend TestoPrime for low testosterone levels About TestoPrime Testosterone Supplements TestoPrime is a breakthrough supplement specifically formulated to naturally elevate and optimize testosterone levels in men. Backed by clinical research, TestoPrime is designed for: Men experiencing age-related testosterone decline Athletes and bodybuilders wanting to build lean muscle mass and recovery Anyone looking to reclaim energy, focus, and vitality Since its launch, TestoPrime has garnered a loyal following and impressive results - making it the go-to testosterone supplement in 2025. TestoPrime's Formula: What's Inside and How It Works Powerful, Natural Ingredients TestoPrime's formula is built on 12 evidence-based ingredients, all chosen for their synergistic effects: D-Aspartic Acid (DAA) A natural amino acid that stimulates LH production, signaling the body to boost testosterone levels. Panax Ginseng A legendary adaptogen, ginseng helps combat stress and supports libido, stamina, and energy. Ashwagandha Extract Reduces cortisol, the stress hormone that can suppress testosterone; also supports muscle growth and fat loss. Fenugreek extract Shown in studies to naturally increase testosterone and support strength and libido. Green Tea Extract (with EGCG) Antioxidant-rich, it supports fat burning and overall health. Pomegranate Extract Boosts blood flow and supports cardiovascular health, benefiting workout performance. Vitamin D Essential for testosterone production; most men are deficient. Zinc A mineral crucial for hormone health and immune function. Vitamin B6, B5, Garlic Extract, Black Pepper Extract Support energy metabolism, absorption, and overall hormonal balance. How TestoPrime Works Stimulates natural testosterone production DAA and fenugreek help the body make more of its own testosterone. Reduces stress and cortisol Ashwagandha keeps stress in check, protecting testosterone levels. Enhances energy, focus, and stamina Ginseng, green tea, and B vitamins keep you sharp and motivated. Improves muscle recovery and fat loss By supporting hormonal balance, TestoPrime optimizes your body's ability to build muscle and burn fat. TestoPrime vs. Prescription TRT: A Side-by-Side Comparison Feature TestoPrime (Pill) Prescription TRT (Injections/Gels) Prescription required No Yes Accessibility Worldwide, online Limited to clinics, prescription only Method Daily oral supplement Injections, gels, patches Ingredients Natural plant extracts, vitamins, minerals Synthetic testosterone Risk of side effects Low Moderate to high Hormonal shutdown No Yes (suppresses natural production) Muscle gain/fat loss support Yes Yes Libido & mood Yes Yes Cost Affordable, no doctor fees High, recurring medical costs Suitable for all men Yes (adults, not for those with medical conditions) Only for those diagnosed with low T The Muscle-Building Benefits of TestoPrime 1. Accelerated Muscle Growth By naturally increasing testosterone, TestoPrime amplifies protein synthesis and nitrogen retention—critical processes for building and repairing muscle fibers after intense workouts. Users report faster gains in size and strength, especially when combined with resistance training. 2. Improved Strength and Performance Higher testosterone enhances red blood cell production, resulting in better oxygen delivery and endurance. TestoPrime users often notice more power and stamina in the gym, enabling progressive overload and continual improvement. 3. Faster Recovery TestoPrime's anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic ingredients (like ashwagandha and ginseng) help the body recover from strenuous exercise, reducing muscle soreness and downtime. 4. Fat Loss and Leaner Physique Increased testosterone shifts the body's metabolism toward burning fat for fuel, particularly visceral (belly) fat. Combined with the thermogenic properties of green tea and pomegranate, TestoPrime helps users shed unwanted fat while preserving hard-earned muscle. 5. Enhanced Motivation and Mental Clarity Many men experience 'brain fog' or lack of motivation when testosterone is low. TestoPrime's blend of vitamins, adaptogens, and antioxidants supports mental focus, drive, and mood. Real User Results: Transformations with TestoPrime Case Study 1: Mark, 37 – From Plateau to Progress 'After turning 35, I noticed my workouts weren't getting the same results. I felt sluggish and wasn't adding muscle like before. After 8 weeks on TestoPrime, my energy shot up, my bench press increased by 30 lbs, and I lost 10 pounds of fat. This is the boost I needed!' Case Study 2: David, 42 – Reclaiming Youthful Vitality 'I'd been on prescription TRT for a year but hated the injections and side effects. Switching to TestoPrime was a game changer. I sleep better, have more energy, and my wife noticed the difference too.' Case Study 3: Mike, 29 – Natural Gains for Bodybuilding 'I wanted to stay natural but maximize my muscle growth. TestoPrime fits perfectly with my training. More strength, better recovery, and I feel unstoppable in the gym.' The Science Behind TestoPrime: Evidence for Each Ingredient D-Aspartic Acid (DAA) Clinical studies have shown that DAA can increase luteinizing hormone (LH) and, consequently, testosterone production in healthy men. One notable study found a 42% increase in testosterone after just 12 days of supplementation. Ashwagandha Research demonstrates that ashwagandha supplementation can significantly reduce cortisol levels and boost testosterone, especially in stressed or active men. In one trial, men taking ashwagandha experienced greater muscle gains and fat loss compared to placebo. Fenugreek Fenugreek has been shown to improve both total and free testosterone levels while supporting strength and body composition in resistance-trained men. Panax Ginseng Ginseng is an adaptogen that not only combats stress but also supports libido, energy, and overall hormonal balance. Zinc and Vitamin D Both are essential nutrients for healthy testosterone production. Studies repeatedly show that deficiency in either leads to reduced hormone levels and impaired muscle growth. KW;, Om AS;Chung. 'Dietary Zinc Deficiency Alters 5 Alpha-Reduction and Aromatization of Testosterone and Androgen and Estrogen Receptors in Rat Liver.' The Journal of Nutrition, U.S. National Library of Medicine, TestoPrime in Muscle Building and Cutting Cycles Bulking: Building Mass with Elevated Testosterone During a bulking phase, the goal is to maximize muscle growth with a caloric surplus and heavy resistance training. Higher testosterone levels facilitate: Greater muscle protein synthesis Faster recovery between sessions Increased strength and power output Less fat gain relative to muscle mass TestoPrime's formula supports all these processes, making it ideal for natural bodybuilders and athletes seeking maximum gains without synthetic hormones. Cutting: Preserving Muscle While Burning Fat Cutting cycles focus on shedding fat while maintaining muscle. Testosterone is key here, as low levels can lead to muscle loss during calorie restriction. TestoPrime: Preserves lean mass by supporting testosterone and reducing cortisol Accelerates fat loss via metabolic and thermogenic ingredients Maintains energy and motivation during tough dieting phases How to Use TestoPrime for TRT Maximum Results Dosage and Timing Recommended dose: 4 capsules once daily, ideally in the morning before breakfast. Consistency: Take TestoPrime every day, even on rest days, for best results. Cycle length: TestoPrime can be used continuously, but many users follow cycles of 8–12 weeks on, followed by a short break. Stacking with Other Supplements TestoPrime pairs well with: Protein powders (for muscle repair) Creatine (for strength and power) BCAAs/EAA supplements (for recovery) Fat burners (during cutting, if needed) Diet and Training Bulking: Combine TestoPrime with a calorie surplus and heavy, compound lifts. Cutting: Use alongside a slight calorie deficit, with an emphasis on protein and resistance training to spare muscle. Is TestoPrime Safe? Side Effects and Precautions Safety Profile TestoPrime is formulated with natural, clinically tested ingredients and is generally very well tolerated. Most users report no side effects. Who Should Avoid TestoPrime? Women and minors: Not recommended. Men with medical conditions: Consult a doctor before use, especially those with hormone-sensitive conditions or on medication. Allergies: Check the ingredient list for potential allergens. No Hormonal Suppression Unlike prescription TRT, TestoPrime does not shut down your body's own testosterone production. In fact, it works by supporting your natural hormonal pathways. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is TestoPrime a steroid? No. TestoPrime is a natural supplement, not a steroid or synthetic hormone. It works by supporting your body's own testosterone production. 2. How quickly will I see results? Most users begin to notice increased energy and motivation within 2–3 weeks. Muscle and strength gains typically become noticeable after 4–6 weeks. 3. Can TestoPrime replace prescription TRT? For men with clinical testosterone deficiency, medical TRT may still be necessary. However, for most men seeking to optimize natural levels, TestoPrime offers a safe, effective alternative. 4. Is it legal and safe for sports? Yes, TestoPrime contains no banned substances and is safe for competitive athletes. 5. Do I need to cycle TestoPrime? While it can be taken continuously, many users prefer to follow 8–12 week cycles with breaks. 6. Can older men use TestoPrime? Absolutely. In fact, older men with age-related testosterone decline stand to benefit the most. TestoPrime Reviews and Community Buzz: Why TestoPrime is #1 in 2025Growing Popularity With thousands of positive reviews worldwide, TestoPrime has become a staple testosterone supplement for men looking to reclaim their strength, energy, and physique. Social Proof Fitness forums: Users report dramatic improvements in muscle mass, recovery, and motivation. YouTube/Instagram: Influencers and trainers increasingly recommend TestoPrime for natural muscle building. Wellness blogs: Health experts highlight its science-backed formula and transparent labeling. Satisfaction Guarantee TestoPrime offers a lifetime money-back guarantee—a testament to its effectiveness and customer trust. Where to Buy TestoPrime: Ensuring Authenticity and Results To guarantee you're getting the genuine product, always buy directly from the official TestoPrime website. Benefits include: Fresh, authentic product direct from the manufacturer Bulk order discounts and free shipping Lifetime money-back guarantee 24/7 customer support and guidance Avoid third-party resellers to steer clear of counterfeits and ensure eligibility for the guarantee. Traditional TRT: The Challenges of Injections and Gels Prescription TRT: The Standard Approach For years, men diagnosed with low testosterone have relied on medical testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). This typically involves: Injections: The most common method, often administered weekly or bi-weekly. Topical gels or patches: Applied to the skin daily. Implants or pellets: Inserted under the skin for slow hormone release. Limitations and Drawbacks While prescription TRT can be life-changing for men with clinical deficiency, it's not without downsides: Invasive and inconvenient: Injections require regular doctor visits; gels and patches can be messy or cause skin irritation. Side effects: Risk of acne, hair loss, sleep apnea, increased red blood cell count, high blood pressure and testicular shrinkage. Cost: Ongoing medical appointments and prescription fees add up. Not accessible to all: Only available with a clinical diagnosis and prescription. The Shift in 2025: Why Men Are Turning to Pill Form Testosterone Replacement Therapy The Demand for Natural TRT Treatments In 2025, more men are looking for ways to safely and effectively boost testosterone without needles, doctors, or prescriptions. The new generation of pill form testosterone boosting supplements answers this demand, offering: Convenience: Easy, daily oral dosing. Natural ingredients: Plant extracts, vitamins, and minerals shown to support healthy testosterone levels naturally. No prescription required: Accessible to all adult men, worldwide. Safer profile: Lower risk of side effects compared to synthetic hormone replacement. Comprehensive benefits: Improved muscle mass, energy, mood, and overall wellness. The Science Behind Natural Testosterone Boosters Pill-based supplements work by supporting the body's own testosterone production, rather than replacing it with synthetic hormones. Ingredients are chosen for their ability to: Stimulate luteinizing hormone (LH), signaling the testes to produce more testosterone Reduce stress hormones like cortisol, which can suppress testosterone Improve blood flow and nutrient delivery to muscles Support overall hormonal balance Treat erectile dysfunction Natural testosterone boosters also play a crucial role in regulating weight gain and supporting the production of steroid hormones, which are essential for muscle growth, energy, and sexual function. Many of these ingredients help modulate the activity of the adrenal glands—important organs that influence both cortisol and testosterone levels. In addition, a healthy intake of dietary fat is vital for optimal hormone synthesis, as extremely low fat diets can negatively impact testosterone and other steroid hormones. By promoting the body's natural ability to maintain healthy fat levels and supporting key processes related to sexual function, muscle repair, and hormonal balance, these supplements offer a comprehensive approach to men's health and performance. Final Thoughts: The Future of Natural Testosterone Therapy The landscape of men's health and muscle building is changing rapidly. In 2025, more men than ever are seeking safe, effective, and convenient testosterone therapy—without the needles, risks, or doctor's visits of traditional TRT. TestoPrime stands at the forefront of this movement, offering a powerful, natural testosterone treatment for men who want to maximize muscle mass, performance, and vitality. Its evidence-based formula, stellar safety profile, and growing community of success stories make it the leading choice for anyone ready to take their training and life to the next level. Ready to experience the benefits of natural testosterone boosters? Discover TestoPrime and join the new era of muscle building and men's health today. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement. Individual results may vary. Media Contact:Steve Niddich, Head of Product InnovationWolfson Brands UK12 Payne Street, Glasgow, G4 0LF, United Kingdomsupport@ TestoPrime CONTACT: Media Contact: Steve Niddich, Head of Product Innovation Wolfson Brands UK 12 Payne Street, Glasgow, G4 0LF, United Kingdom support@
Forbes
15 hours ago
- Forbes
Canadian Wildfire Smoke: New York City Faces Air Quality Advisory for Second Day in a Row
New York City and other parts of the Northeast were placed under air quality alerts for the second day in a row as smoke from the wildfires burning in Canada again brings hazardous conditions to the region. New York City was placed under an air quality health advisory over the weekend. AFP via Getty Images New York City, Long Island and the Hudson Valley will all experience air quality within the 101-150 range on the air quality index Sunday, the state's Department of Environmental Conservation forecasted—meaning the air could contain fine particles and could be 'unhealthy for sensitive groups.' Sensitive groups include very young children and adults with preexisting conditions like asthma and heart disease, the New York State Department of Health said, recommending these individuals limit 'strenuous outdoor physical activity.' The state issued an Air Quality Health Advisory on Saturday afternoon as smoke began blanketing the region, and extended the warning through Sunday evening at 11:59 p.m. EDT. Parts of New Jersey, New England and Quebec could also experience similar air quality conditions, according to online tracker IQAir. 120. That was the air quality reading for New York City as of around 11 a.m. EDT on Sunday morning—the eighth worst among major cities in the world, according to IQAir, and the worst in North America. Key Background The smoke blanketing the Northeast over the weekend is primarily the result of massive wildfires burning in Canada. Over 3,300 have burned over 5.6 million hectares across Canada year-to-date, according to the Canadian Interagency Fire Centre's most recent report. Canada has suffered from severe wildfires since a record-breaking 2023 wildfire season, when fires burning in Quebec blanketed New York City in an orange haze. Earlier this month, a group of Republican members of Congress from Wisconsin and Minnesota wrote to Ambassador Kirsten Hillman, Canada's ambassador to the U.S., asking the country for more information about how it planned to combat the fires and implying a 'lack of active forest management' played a role in exacerbating the situation. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, the leader of the Canadian province where wildfires forced thousands to evacuate and trapped and killed two people in a rural area in May, criticized the group as 'ambulance chasers' and challenged them to visit and support the American firefighters involved in battling the blazes on the Canadian side of the border. The air quality readings in New York this weekend are just a fraction of what was recorded in 2023, when readings spiked above 400—a level considered hazardous for the entire population.
Forbes
16 hours ago
- Forbes
How Healthcare Is Becoming Less Affordable Under The Trump Administration
Ryan Chelsea-Clinton Community Health Center located in the Hell's Kitchen, New York City, provides ... More high-quality, affordable, and comprehensive healthcare services to children, adults, and seniors. (Photo by: Deb Cohn-Orbach/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) It has been just six months since President Trump has started his second term as Commander-in-Chief, and there have been profound changes in the healthcare landscape across America. His legislative and regulatory agenda could accelerate the decline in healthcare affordability across the United States. Here's how health services and accessibility could be compromised for millions of Americans. Medicaid Cuts More than 10 million Americans will lose healthcare insurance coverage through Medicaid over the next decade as part of the 'One Big Beautiful Bill', according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office. These millions of Americans are among the most vulnerable population in dire need of healthcare, as Medicaid supports children, the elderly, pregnant women and those with disabilities. Without health insurance, individuals may be reluctant to seek care when sick, they may not go to the doctor's office for routine checkups, and they may not be able to fill drug prescriptions to curb serious diseases. When getting emergent care, these individuals will not be able to afford the large health bills they receive since they are uninsured as Medicaid will not contribute to picking up the tab. Rollback Of Affordable Care Act Subsidies President Joe Biden allowed for federal subsidies and premium tax credits for middle- and low-income families who bought state health coverage on state insurance marketplaces as part of the Affordable Care Act. This aid decreased medical bills and lowered insurance premiums for the 24 million Americans that benefit from this plan. These subsidies are in jeopardy and could expire in December if congress does not renew them. If congress does not act, millions of Americans could be forced to lose healthcare coverage altogether or be pushed to switch to higher deductible health plans that would require them to pay more out of pocket costs before receiving financial support. These changes will not just affect low-income families. The cost to middle-class and working families will be stark- some households earning around $65,000 could see annual health costs rise by over $2,300, and approximately 4.2 million people could lose health insurance altogether, according to the Washington Post. Rising Out-Of-Pocket Costs Healthcare costs that were once paid by health insurers could be shifted increasingly to individuals. As an example, consider COVID-19 vaccines that have traditionally been covered by the federal government or health insurers at no cost to the consumer. New federal guidelines for COVID-19 vaccines will allow health insurers to halt coverage of the vaccines, so patients themselves will have to cover the cost. As an example, Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the CDC have stated that COVID-19 vaccines will no longer be recommended for pregnant females. Health insurers are usually obliged to cover vaccines that are recommended by federal regulatory bodies. However, with the new federal recommendations, health insurers will be exempt from covering this service to select individuals, which will effectively shift the cost to Americans if they want to stay protected from COVID-19. Increased Drug Costs President Trump has announced an intent to impose tariffs in the range of 25-200% on pharmaceuticals to incentivize drug production in the United States. If implemented, this policy would be problematic since 80 percent of generic tablets consumed by Americans are manufactured outside the U.S. according to The Hill. Even a 25% tariff would increase U.S. drug prices by nearly $51 billion. This, of course, would have devastating consequences for millions of Americans. Not only would this make healthcare even less affordable than it already is, but health outcomes would deteriorate. Many Americans would forego buying medicines, thereby exacerbating sickness and illness. Nine out of 10 people over the age of 65 rely on prescription drugs to maintain their well-being, according to the American Association of Retired Persons. Although the Trump administration has touted executive actions that seek to improve health transparency and reduce drug costs, the broader legislative and regulatory agenda being imposed will make healthcare significantly less affordable to the average American. Many American families could lose health insurance, face higher premiums and pay greater out-of-pocket costs in the years to come.
