Pumpkin seed oil
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What it does: emollient
Also called: pepita oil
The science
Pumpkin seed oil is the oil extracted from the seeds of a pumpkin or Cucurbita maxima. This oil is loaded with fatty acids, vitamins, proteins, dietary fibers, and minerals. The polyunsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants in pumpkin seed oil help maintain normal cell structure and retain moisture in the hair and scalp. Zinc promotes skin renewal and can also treat flaking and itching associated with seborrheic dermatitis.
Pumpkin seed oil stops the production of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), as well as testosterone and androgen, hence assisting in reducing hair loss. DHT blocks the hair follicles from absorbing proteins.
Benefits for your hair
Nourishes hair follicles
Massaging scalp regularly with pumpkin seed oil nourishes hair follicles and can hence assist with hair growth.
Reduces frizz
Being an emollient, pumpkin seed oil smoothes frizz, which results in shinier and more manageable hair.
Softens hair
The high vitamin E content in pumpkin seed oil softens the hair and helps promote elasticity.
Can prevent hair loss
Some scientific studies suggest that pumpkin seed oil can prevent hair loss. The oil has phytosterols, which could block enzymes and hormones in the scalp that cause hair loss. Pumpkin seed oil also blocks DHT, testosterone and androgen, hence reducing hair loss.
TLDR
Pumpkins are not just for fall, coffees and Halloween - they're great for curly and wavy hair too! Pumpkin seed oil makes curly hair more manageable by reducing frizz, softening hair and adding some much-needed shine to dry hair. Massaging the scalp with pumpkin seed oil can assist with hair growth. Pumpkin seed oil can also prevent hair loss.