Have you tried everything for healthier hair and still feel like something’s missing? Pumpkin seed oil might be the missing ingredient you've been searching for. It's not as trendy as coconut or argan oil, but it's loaded with nutrients to promote hair growth, a healthy scalp, and thicker locks. If you're fighting against hair fall, a dry scalp, or just a desire for healthy, lustrous hair, this product might be your new best friend.
What Is Pumpkin Seed Oil?
Pumpkin seed oil, derived from pumpkin seeds, contains essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and minerals. It contains zinc, magnesium, and vitamin E, the nutrients essential to the health of the scalp and hair.
You'll normally find it marketed as a deep green or reddish oil (due to its high chlorophyll and carotenoid levels) and has a light, nutty scent. You can apply it topically or even take it internally in small quantities, though if hair is your target, massaging it into the scalp is the way to go.
Benefits Of Pumpkin Seed Oil For Hair
1. Supports Hair Growth Naturally
One of the most discussed advantages of pumpkin seed oil is that it might stimulate hair growth. Various studies indicate that pumpkin seed oil might hamper an enzyme known as 5-alpha reductase. The enzyme converts testosterone to DHT (dihydrotestosterone), a hormone that causes baldness, particularly in individuals with androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness). A 2014 randomised trial found that men taking pumpkin seed oil supplements for 24 weeks experienced a 40% increase in hair count from the placebo group.
2. Nourishes the Scalp
Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. Pumpkin seed oil's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory content calms scalp irritation, soothes flakiness, and conditions the scalp. The oil's zinc content also aids in cell regeneration, which helps create an environment where hair follicles can grow.
Also Read: Pumpkin Seeds For Alopecia: Expert Shares Ways To Include It In Your Diet
3. Strengthens Hair Strands
Healthy hair begins with a healthy scalp. Pumpkin seed oil is gentle and protective in nature and can soothe scalp inflammation, slow flakiness, and hydrate the scalp. The zinc present in the oil also promotes new cell growth, which is necessary for maintaining the health and strength of hair follicles.
Also, vitamin E is a natural conditioner. It seals in moisture and makes your hair soft, and healthy-feeling, without leaving it heavy.
4. May Help Reduce Hair Shedding
If you notice more hair coming off your brush than normal, pumpkin seed oil may be able to minimise excess shedding. Its combination of anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and DHT-blocking properties supports the follicles and may help prevent premature hair fall.
A 2019 study investigated the potential of pumpkin seed oil for promoting hair growth in mice. The findings suggested that applying pumpkin seed oil topically encouraged hair growth in the mice, indicating it might serve as an alternative treatment for male pattern baldness.
Massage it lightly into your scalp several times a week, leave it on for 30 minutes or overnight, and shampoo with a gentle shampoo. Use it as a self-care ritual your hair will love.
Also Read: Pumpkin Seeds For Healthy Hair: Here's Why You Should Use It
How to Use Pumpkin Seed Oil for Hair
- Scalp massage oil: Warm a small quantity and massage it into your scalp. Set it aside for 30 minutes before washing.
- Hair mask booster: Mix it with nourishing oils like coconut or argan for a deep conditioning treatment.
- Leave-in serum: For dry ends, use a drop or two to tame frizz and add shine.
Pro tip: Always patch test to eliminate any possible allergic response, and use cold-pressed, unrefined pumpkin seed oil for best results.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]