‘Nutrient-rich’ seed oil could help combat hair loss

Hair loss is a common issue, affecting around 70 percent of men and 40 percent of women by the age of 70.

It is normal to lose between 50 and 100 individual hairs a day but more than that can be noticeable.

Some hair loss can be temporary and caused by things such as illness, stress, weight loss and cancer treatment.

In other cases, like male and female pattern baldness though, it can be permanent.

While the cause of hair loss could be out of our hands there are ways to potentially slow and even prevent it from happening.

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The use of rosemary oil has often been cited as a way of boosting hair growth.

However, one expert has recommended an alternative oil for its hair health-promoting benefits.

Speaking exclusively with Express.co.uk, Arran Isherwood – senior trichological specialist at FUE Clinics – advised using pumpkin seed oil.

He said: “Pumpkin seed oil has gained attention in recent years as a potential remedy for hair loss.

“With an increasing number of individuals seeking alternative and holistic solutions for hair care, the interest in pumpkin seed oil has grown.

“The hashtag ‘pumpkin seed oil’ has even amassed almost 18 million views on TikTok.”

He explained why it prevents hair loss. “The natural, nutrient-rich oil is high in fatty acids such as omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9, vitamins E and B and the minerals zinc, magnesium and selenium,” he said.

“The combination of these nutrients promotes hair elasticity, growth and repair and reduces inflammation on the scalp which can contribute to hair loss.

“Scientific evidence also suggests that this could be a viable remedy to use in conjunction with other hair loss treatments or to incorporate into your hair care routine to promote and maintain hair health. There’s also no harm in using it alongside rosemary oil.”

Topical application

FUE Clinics says: “Gently massage a small amount of pumpkin seed oil into your scalp, ensuring even distribution.

“You can also apply it to the lengths of your hair for added nourishment. Allow the oil to sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum absorption before washing it off with a mild shampoo.

“Repeat this process two to three times a week for optimal results.”

Oral supplementation

“While the primary study on pumpkin seed oil for hair growth utilised oral supplementation, consulting with a healthcare professional before incorporating pumpkin seed oil supplements into your diet is essential,” it recommends.

“They can recommend an appropriate dosage based on your individual needs and health conditions.”

Hair care products

The clinic adds: “Look for hair care products, such as shampoos and conditioners, that contain pumpkin seed oil as an active ingredient.

“Using these products regularly can help deliver the nutrients and benefits of pumpkin seed oil to your hair and scalp.”

What does research say?

One study, published in the Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine in 2019, found that applying pumpkin seed oil to mice with hair loss resulted in hair growth after three weeks.

It concluded: “In conclusion, as topical application of pumpkin seed oil showed hair growth promotion, it might be regarded as a promising alternative for treatment of male pattern alopecia.

“Also, considering its composition, free fatty acids and minor components like phytoestrogens and vitamin E may have contributed to this effect.”