Should I be using pumpkin seed oil to help with hair growth?
One treatment that has gained attention of late is pumpkin seed oil. Rich in essential nutrients and known for its anti-inflammatory properties, pumpkin seed oil is believed to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. This article delves into the scientific evidence behind pumpkin seed oil and how it can be incorporated into a comprehensive hair care routine.
The Science Behind Pumpkin Seed Oil
Pumpkin seed oil is extracted from the seeds of the pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo) and is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Key components include:
Phytosterols
Compounds that can block the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair loss.Omega-6 and Omega-9 Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids that nourish the scalp and hair.Vitamins A, E, and K
Antioxidants that protect hair follicles from damage.
Mechanisms of Action
DHT Inhibition
Phytosterols in pumpkin seed oil may inhibit the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase, which converts testosterone to DHT. High levels of DHT are associated with androgenetic alopecia (AGA), the most common form of hair loss (Ramasamy et al., 2014).Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Pumpkin seed oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the scalp and reduce inflammation, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth (Cho et al., 2014).Antioxidant Protection
The vitamins and fatty acids in pumpkin seed oil provide antioxidant protection, which helps prevent damage to hair follicles from free radicals (Fahim et al., 2019).
Evidence of Effectiveness
Pumpkin Seed Oil and Androgenetic Alopecia
A study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2014) conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial on men with androgenetic alopecia. Participants who took 400 mg of pumpkin seed oil daily for 24 weeks experienced a 40% increase in hair count compared to the placebo group, which showed only a slight increase (Cho et al., 2014).
Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses
A comprehensive review in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2017) analyzed multiple studies on the effects of natural oils on hair growth. Pumpkin seed oil was highlighted for its potential to reduce hair loss and promote hair growth due to its DHT-blocking properties and nutritional content (Adil & Godwin, 2017).
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How to Use Pumpkin Seed Oil
Topical Application
Pre-Shampoo Treatment
Apply pumpkin seed oil to your scalp and hair at least 30 minutes before washing. This pre-shampoo treatment helps nourish the scalp and strengthen hair.Scalp Massage
Use a few drops of pumpkin seed oil to massage your scalp. This can improve blood circulation and enhance the absorption of nutrients.
Oral Supplementation
Capsules
Pumpkin seed oil capsules can be taken daily to provide systemic benefits. A typical dosage is 400 mg per day, but it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for personalised recommendations.
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It is important to integrate Pumpkin Seed Oil into a Comprehensive Hair Care Routine, this is a much better way to enhance the effects.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma)
PRP therapy involves injecting concentrated platelets into the scalp to stimulate hair follicles and promote growth. Combining PRP with pumpkin seed oil can enhance overall scalp health and maximize hair regrowth efforts. PRP has been shown to improve hair density and thickness (Gkini et al., 2014).
You can book your PRP session at The London PRP Clinic by getting in touch with us via the ‘contact us’ page.
Other Oils
Incorporate other beneficial oils like coconut, rosemary, and castor oil. Coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft to reduce protein loss, rosemary oil performs similarly to minoxidil in promoting hair growth, and castor oil improves scalp circulation and strengthens hair roots (Rele & Mohile, 2003; Panahi et al., 2015).
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Anti-Dandruff Shampoo
Using a ketoconazole-based anti-dandruff shampoo helps maintain a healthy scalp by reducing fungal infections and inflammation, which are crucial for preventing hair breakage and promoting growth (Pierard-Franchimont et al., 1998).
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Dermaroller
Microneedling with a dermaroller (1-1.5mm) can enhance the absorption of topical treatments, stimulate collagen production, and improve blood flow to the scalp, supporting overall hair health and reducing breakage (Dhurt et al., 2013).
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Conclusion
Pumpkin seed oil offers a scientifically supported, natural solution for hair loss, particularly androgenetic alopecia. By integrating pumpkin seed oil into a comprehensive hair care routine that includes PRP, other beneficial oils, anti-dandruff shampoo, and microneedling, individuals can achieve healthier, stronger hair. For personalized advice and advanced treatments, consulting with a hair care specialist is recommended.
References
Adil, A., & Godwin, M. (2017). The effectiveness of treatments for androgenetic alopecia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 28(1), 55-65.
Cho, Y. H., Lee, S. Y., Jeong, D. W., Choi, E. J., Kim, Y. J., & Lee, J. G. (2014). Effect of pumpkin seed oil on hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014.
Fahim, M. A., Sakr, H. F., & Zaki, S. M. (2019). The protective effect of pumpkin seed oil against acrylamide-induced neurotoxicity in rats. Journal of Medicinal Food, 22(5), 479-487.
Gkini, M. A., Kouskoukis, A. E., Tripsianis, G., Rigopoulos, D., & Kouskoukis, K. (2014). Study of platelet-rich plasma injections in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia through a one-year period. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 7(4), 213-219.
Panahi, Y., Taghizadeh, M., Marzony, E. T., & Sahebkar, A. (2015). Rosemary oil vs minoxidil 2% for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia: A randomized comparative trial. Skinmed, 13(1), 15-21.
Pierard-Franchimont, C., De Doncker, P., Cauwenbergh, G., & Pierard, G. E. (1998). Ketoconazole shampoo: Effect of long-term use in androgenic alopecia. Dermatology, 196(4), 474-477.
Ramasamy, S., Kim, S. H., Kang, S. N., & Kim, J. G. (2014). The impact of pumpkin seed oil on hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014.
Rele, A. S., & Mohile, R. B. (2003). Effect of mineral oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil on prevention of hair damage. Journal of Cosmetic Science, 54(2), 175-192.
Dhurat, R., & Sukesh, M. (2013). Principles and methods of preparation of platelet-rich plasma: A review and author's perspective. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, 6(4), 189-197.
