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If you’re struggling with hair shedding, you’re not alone — and if you’re like many of us, you’ve probably tried a handful of solutions before landing here. One natural remedy that’s been quietly gaining attention is pumpkin seed oil. But does it actually work for hair loss? And how should you take it?
As a busy mum who loves a good wellness shortcut (and anything that supports healthy hair), I decided to dig into the science — and the practicalities — of this trending supplement. Here’s what I found out.
🟠 What Is Pumpkin Seed Oil?
Pumpkin seed oil is extracted from the seeds of the Cucurbita pepo (a type of pumpkin). Rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential nutrients like zinc and vitamin E, it’s long been praised for its benefits to skin, heart health, and — more recently — hair growth.
💇♀️ Can Pumpkin Seed Oil Really Help With Hair Shedding?
Let’s cut to the chase: yes, it might — especially if your hair loss is linked to hormones.
Here’s why pumpkin seed oil is making waves in the hair health space:
✅ 1. It may block DHT — the hormone linked to hair loss
- Pumpkin seed oil contains beta-sitosterol, a plant compound that can inhibit the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT.
- DHT is one of the main culprits behind androgenetic alopecia (pattern hair loss in men and women).
- A 2014 study showed that men taking 400mg of pumpkin seed oil daily saw a 40% increase in hair count after 24 weeks, compared to 10% in the placebo group.
✅ 2. It supports scalp health
- Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, pumpkin seed oil may help calm scalp irritation — one of the common contributors to excessive shedding.
- It also contains essential fatty acids that support skin barrier function, keeping your scalp nourished and balanced.
✅ 3. It’s rich in zinc and vitamin E
- Both are essential for healthy hair growth.
- Zinc in particular is key for cell repair and growth, especially in hair follicles.
🧴 Topical vs Oral: What Works Best?
There are two ways to use pumpkin seed oil: taking it as a supplement, or applying it directly to the scalp. Here’s how they compare:
| Form | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oral Capsules | Hormonal hair loss | Backed by clinical study, easy to take | May take 3–6 months for results |
| Topical Oil | Dry/itchy scalp, local nourishment | Directly nourishes follicles | Can be messy, slower results |
💡 Best results may come from combining both — supporting your hair from the inside and out.
🏆 Best Pumpkin Seed Oil Supplement for Hair Shedding
After researching ingredients, reviews, and ethical sourcing, here are my top picks:
- Best Overall: NOW Foods Pumpkin Seed Oil – trusted, effective, and affordable
- Best Organic: Viridian Organic Pumpkin Seed Oil – vegan, certified organic, and sustainably packaged
- Best UK Budget Option: Nature’s Aid Pumpkin Seed Oil – good value, simple formulation, UK-made
Look for a cold-pressed, 1000mg capsule, and take it daily for at least 12–24 weeks to see meaningful results.
✨ Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Trying?
If your hairbrush is full of stray strands and you feel like you’ve tried everything else, pumpkin seed oil is a promising natural option. It won’t work overnight, but for many people — especially those with hormone-related hair thinning — it could be the low-risk, high-reward supplement you’ve been looking for.
Plus, it’s a lovely little act of self-care – and who doesn’t need more of that?
🛒 Shopping Tip: Always choose cold-pressed, organic, and additive-free supplements where possible. Avoid anything overly processed, as it may lose potency.
📌 Pin This for Later or Share With Someone Losing Their Hair Mojo
If you’ve tried pumpkin seed oil before — let me know! I’d love to hear how it worked for you.
