Topical Pumpkin Seed Oil for Hair Growth: What the Science Says

Hair thinning and loss can be an emotionally challenging journey—especially for women. While minoxidil is often considered the go-to topical treatment for female pattern hair loss, not everyone wants to rely on synthetic ingredients or endure the side effects that can come with them.

What if nature had a clinically proven alternative?

A recent peer-reviewed study published in the International Journal of Women's Dermatology (2021) explored just that—comparing topical pumpkin seed oil (PSO) with minoxidil 5% foam in the treatment of female pattern hair loss.

The Study Design: Science Meets Nature

This randomized, comparative clinical trial enrolled 60 women diagnosed with female pattern hair loss (FPHL). Participants were divided into two equal groups:

• Group A applied topical pumpkin seed oil once daily.
• Group B applied topical minoxidil 5% foam once daily.

The study lasted 3 months, and results were tracked using dermascopic imaging, which allowed researchers to measure changes in hair quantity and hair shaft diameter diversity.

The Findings: A Promising Natural Alternative

After 3 months, both groups experienced statistically significant improvements in hair growth and quality. 

Here’s what the study found:

• Both groups (PSO and minoxidil) had statistically significant improvements in:
  • Upright regrowing hairs
  • Hair shaft diversity (more thick hairs)
  • Reduction in vellus hairs (fewer thin, miniaturized hairs)
• Pumpkin seed oil showed greater improvement than minoxidil in the reduction of vellus hairs.
• Minoxidil showed greater improvement in the number of upright regrowing hairs and hair shaft diversity, although pumpkin seed oil still showed visible, significant improvements.

The Conclusion: A Clinically Supported Botanical Option

The researchers concluded that the trial provided “evidence with respect to the efficacy of PSO in the treatment of female pattern hair loss.” Pumpkin seed oil is a rich source of fatty acids and beta-sitosterol which are known to inhibit 5-alpha reductase and reduce DHT.

While minoxidil remains the gold standard due to its greater performance in some areas, this study suggests that pumpkin seed oil offers a natural, effective alternative for those looking to avoid synthetic chemicals and their side effects.

Final Thoughts

At Melita Organics, we believe the best solutions are born when science and nature meet. This study affirms what we’ve long known: botanical ingredients like pumpkin seed oil can deliver real, visible results—backed by evidence.

Whether you’re beginning your hair wellness journey or looking for a natural alternative to harsher treatments, pumpkin seed oil may be a powerful addition to your routine.

You can find our 100% Certified Organic blend of rosemary and pumpkin seed oil for hair growth in our shop.

📚 Reference:
Rekha Dhurat et al. (2021). Pumpkin Seed Oil vs. Minoxidil 5% Topical Foam for the Treatment of Female Pattern Hair Loss: A Randomized Comparative Trial. International Journal of Women’s Dermatology. doi:10.1016/j.ijwd.2021.01.004