Some people believe that pumpkin seed oil can help prevent hair loss and encourage hair growth. However, more research is necessary to better understand its potential.

Pumpkin seed oil is available as a topical product or in a capsule for oral consumption. Some people suggest that applying the oil to hair or taking it as a supplement can help reduce hair loss.

It is best to speak with a doctor if you have concerns about hair loss. It’s important to determine the underlying cause, and medical treatments may be necessary. The doctor can also advise on whether they recommend trying pumpkin seed oil.

Read on to learn more about the possible benefits of pumpkin seed oil for hair loss.

A 2014 study looked at pumpkin seed oil and hair loss. In the study, males with pattern baldness took either pumpkin seed supplements or a placebo. The results showed that those who took supplements experienced 30% more hair growth than those who received the placebo.

One theory for how pumpkin seed works for hair loss is that the oil’s phytosterols promote hair growth. Phytosterols are sterols found in many plants.

Phytosterols could block the enzymes and hormones in the scalp that cause hair loss. This would mean phytosterol-rich pumpkin seed oil might help reduce hair loss.

A 2019 study found that topical pumpkin seed oil helps encourage hair growth in a mouse model. This could be due to the presence of free fatty acids, plant-based estrogens, and vitamin E.

A 2022 study looked at the benefits of topical and oral pumpkin seed oil in mice. It found that using topical pumpkin seed oil for 7 days increased the number of hair follicles. Taking oral pumpkin seed oil for 14 days increased the growth of hair follicles.

A 2021 study found that pumpkin seed oil could help treat female pattern hair loss. One group used pumpkin seed oil for three months, and the other group used minoxidil 5% topical foam. Results for both groups were similar.

If you wish to try pumpkin seed oil, you can apply it topically, in liquid form, or as a supplement.

Topical pumpkin seed oil

You can apply pumpkin seed oil directly to your scalp. Try massaging the oil into the scalp, then leaving it in overnight before washing it the next day.

Before applying the oil to your scalp, it is best to apply the oil to a small area, such as behind your ear, to see if an allergic reaction develops. Wait a few days to ensure there is no reaction before applying the oil to your scalp.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • itchiness
  • redness or discoloration
  • hives or rashes
  • pain
  • swelling
  • burning sensation

Pumpkin seed oil supplements

Pumpkin seed oil supplements are usually available in the form of oil gel capsules. Follow label directions for the pumpkin seed oil supplement you purchase.

Remember that supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Quality and dosage may vary. Always make sure to source your supplements only from reputable companies for safety.

If you experience food allergy symptoms or stomach upset, discontinue supplements immediately. Always talk with your doctor before using supplements.

Pumpkin seed oil

You can also take straight pumpkin seed oil.

Follow label directions for guidance if you are using one of these types.

Again, supplement oils also aren’t regulated by the FDA. Quality and dosage vary. Always make sure to source from a trusted supplement company.

There are also pumpkin seed oils marketed for culinary use, much like olive oil. You can use these in the same way to some extent but there is minimal research into the possible benefits and risks. They also might be less rich in phytonutrients because of their production process.

Keep in mind that pumpkin seed oil has a low smoke point. It’s not suitable for using under high heat. Because of this, using pumpkin seed oil in cooking as a supplement could be unreliable.

It’s important to speak with a doctor as soon as there are concerns about hair loss.

The doctor can help determine if there is an underlying condition causing hair loss or affecting hair growth. Some possible causes include:

The doctor may also refer you to a dermatologist for specialist tests and treatments.

Although more research is necessary to confirm if pumpkin seed oil can treat hair loss, some studies suggest that it may help manage conditions such as pattern baldness.

Speak with a doctor if you wish to try pumpkin seed oil for hair loss. The doctor can advise on the suitability of the oil, as well as helping determine any underlying cause for hair loss or problems with hair growth.

Stop using pumpkin seed oil if you develop any adverse effects or symptoms of an allergy.