Does Pumpkin Seed Oil Really Work for Hair Growth? (2025)

Pumpkin seed oil is being promoted as a natural remedy for hair loss. Experts say it may be worth trying, but it can trigger serious reactions in people with allergies or certain skin conditions.

How Might Pumpkin Seed Oil Work for Hair Loss?

While there have been some promising results, research on pumpkin oil is pretty slim.

“There are studies that have shown that pumpkin seed oil can help not only with hair thinning and loss but also promote hair growth,” said Cindy Wassef, MD, an assistant professor in the department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Rutgers Health Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.

Pumpkin seed oil may decrease dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone known to affect hair follicles and cause thinning. "So, blocking this can stop hair loss and promote re-growth," Wassef said.

Pumpkin seed oil has other health-boosting properties that might contribute to hair growth.

“Packed with vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, and linoleic acid, pumpkin seed oil has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties,”Shari Lipner, MD, PhD, a dermatologist at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian, told Verywell.

“In a trial of 76 men with hair loss who either received a pumpkin seed oil capsule or a placebo capsule, there was greater hair growth in the pumpkin seed oil-treated group and better patient-reported satisfaction,” Lipner said.

“However, treatment with pumpkin seed oil has not been compared to approved treatments,” she added.

Who Should Avoid Using Pumpkin Seed Oil?

If you have a known allergy to pumpkins or related plants, you should speak with a physician before trying pumpkin seed oil for hair loss. “Some people could have serious allergic reactions or interactions with other medications that they are already taking, which could be dangerous,” Lipner said.

Lipner added that you could also experience stomach upset, which should prompt you to speak with a healthcare provider before continuing.

You'll want to be careful if you have certain skin conditions, too.

“Those with seborrheic dermatitis may want to exercise caution, as the oil can potentially exacerbate symptoms by fueling the yeast associated with the condition,” Danielle Dubin, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor at the Kimberly and Eric J. Waldman Department of Dermatology at Mount Sinai, told Verywell.

“People with eczema or psoriasis should also be mindful, as pumpkin seed oil may unintentionally cause irritation, redness, or itching,” she added.

When Pumpkin Seed Oil Probably Isn't Enough

It’s important to note that pumpkin seed oil may not help everyone.

“It can definitely be helpful for mild or early hair loss, but those with advanced hair loss would benefit from topical minoxidil or prescription medication,” Wassef said.

If you’re experiencing severe hair loss, it’s likely best to see a dermatologist before trying over-the-counter remedies.

“Consulting with your dermatologist will help you develop the most effective strategy for your hair health journey,” Dubin said.