Can You Prevent Hair Loss with Pumpkin Seed Oil?

Pumpkin seed oil obtained by pressing pumpkin seeds is a reddish or greenish oil that has been touted as a natural solution for hair loss. Pumpkin seed oil is thought to prevent hair loss and promote hair regrowth by lowering Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) – a hormone that causes people to lose their hair faster and at an earlier age. The ability of pumpkin seed oil to fight inflammation, decreasing the constriction of blood vessels in the scalp, and replacing the elements necessary for hair regrowth is also believed to play a role in its ability to prevent hair loss.

A study that involved the taking of oral pumpkin oil supplements concluded that pumpkin seed oil was helpful in reversing hair loss, but you can also experience the benefits of this great oil by applying it directly to the scalp.

How to Use Pumpkin Seed Oil for Hair

There are a few ways you can use pumpkin seed oil as a natural hair restorative. These are outlined below.

Taking Pumpkin Seed Oil Supplements

Pumpkin seed oil supplements are typically sold in the form of oil gel capsules. If you choose to take oral supplements you should be aware that supplements are NOT regulated by the FDA. You should follow the label of your supplement of choice once you have done your research to decide on a product from a reputable brand. The common dose is a 1000 mg capsule and you may take 1 or 2 of these after each meal for a maximum of 3 meals each day. Again, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and purchase from reputable companies known for quality and safety. If you experience food allergy symptoms or stomach upset, discontinue supplements immediately and, of course, speak to a medical practitioner to decide if this is an appropriate option for you.

Taking Liquid Pumpkin Seed Oil

If pills are not your jam, you can also take your pumpkin seed oil in its liquid form. You can take between a teaspoon and a tablespoon up to three times daily. Look for a liquid pumpkin seed oil supplement specifically marketed for health purposes. Again, you should recall that supplements and supplement oils are not FDA regulated, so choose your source wisely and follow the manufacturer’s instructions that are provided on the label.

There are also pumpkin seed oils marketed for cooking purposes. These can be taken orally as well but studies related to the use of pumpkin seed oil in this way are limited. The process of making the oil and cooking may also damage some of the beneficial nutrients in the oil, so using pumpkin seed oil in this way is perhaps the least advantageous way to get the haircare benefits.

Topical Pumpkin Seed Oil

Pumpkin seed oils can also be directly applied to your scalp for benefit. This is perhaps the easiest way to use pumpkin seed oil for its haircare benefits. Scalp massages and hot oil treatments are great ways to expose the scalp to pumpkin seed oil and should be done at least once each month.

Follow these steps:

1. Shampoo your hair

2. Gently warm pumpkin seed oil in a warm water bath

3. Test a few drops of the oil on the inside of your wrist to ensure the temperature is appropriate

4. Wet hair and massage warm oil into your scalp

5. Cover with a plastic/shower cap and towel for extra warmth

6. Wait about 30 minutes.

7. Rinse hair and condition as normal

The Bottom Line

Although more research is needed to confirm if pumpkin seed oil can treat hair loss, it’s a relatively safe natural treatment. It may take several weeks before you see any results.

Stop using pumpkin seed oil if you develop any symptoms of an allergy, such as redness or itching where you applied the oil.