Pumpkin seed oil is the oil extracted from the seeds of a pumpkin or Cucurbita maxima. It is beneficial in treating hair loss, relieving symptoms of menopause, or treating overactive bladder. High proportions of phytosterols and linoleic fatty acids in Pumpkin seeds have a cholesterol-lowering effect on the body. It has even more beneficial effects on the skin. Read on to know the benefits of pumpkin seed oil for skin.
Nutrition Facts:
This nutrition information is provided by the USDA for one tablespoon (14g) of pumpkin seed oil.
| Calories | 120 |
| Fat | 14g |
| Sodium | 0mg |
| Carbohydrates | 0g
|
| Sugars | 0g |
Pumpkin Seed Oil for Skin Benefits
Pumpkin seed oil is a ‘super ingredient’ in case of skincare products or routines. It helps the skin to treat acne, moisturize the skin, soothe the skin, relieve any allergic rash or redness and helps the skin to become firm. It also helps in wound healing treatments. (1) It is well suited for people with extremely oily skin. It is also used as an anti-aging serum/oil.
1. Helps in the Regeneration of Skin Cells
It contains a large number of antioxidants such as Vitamin-C, which helps in lightening and brightening skin, Vitamin-E, which helps in the renewal or regeneration of the skin cells.
2. Heals Rashes and Scars
It also contains Vitamin-K, which is anti-inflammatory in nature, thus helping in relieving the skin from scars, rashes, and inflammations. It helps your skin fight free-radicals.
3. Exfoliates Dead Skin Cells
The pumpkin seed oil contains a good amount of fatty acids. It helps to keep the skin well hydrated and moisturized because it contains a good amount of fatty acids. It also has fruit enzymes that help naturally exfoliate dead skin cells.
4. Maintains a Glowing Skin
It contains zinc and potassium that helps to combat redness. It locks in moisture to keep your skin plump and glowing(2).
Other Benefits
- Firmness
- Treating Acne
- Anti-aging
- Moisturizing
- Soothing Benefits
- Redness Relief
- Great for Oily Skin
The Right Intake of Pumpkin Seed Oil
You can prepare your pumpkin seed oil at home. Also, it can be found as an integral element in several skin lotions, moisturizers, serums, cream, or skin toner. If you are buying the readymade skincare product from the store, then you should follow the general instruction of that specific product.
In case, you are planning on making your own pumpkin seed oil,
- Add a few drops of the oil to your standard skincare cream or lotion and apply it to your skin.
- It should be noted that before you add the homemade or store-bought pumpkin seed oil to your daily skincare products, you should consult a medical professional.
- For pumpkin seed oil supplements, follow label directions for the pumpkin seed oil supplement. The common dose is 1000 mg capsule. 1 or 2 of these can be taken by mouth following meals, about 3 times per day.
Side effects
- It is known that pumpkin seed oil may have a diuretic effect.
- The regular intake of pumpkin seed oil supplements may have an influence on the excretion of lithium from the body. It hampers the flushing out of lithium from the body. An increased concentration of lithium could then lead to side effects.
- If you notice hives or rash and itchy or swollen skin, these reactions should be treated as a medical emergency.
- This product is not advisable during pregnancy or lactation or in children because there isn’t any evidence to support its usage on this vulnerable age groups.
Bottom Line
Pumpkin is referred to as a ‘super ingredient’ in case of skincare products or routines. It helps the skin to treat acne, moisturize the skin, soothe the skin. It relieves any allergic rash or redness and helps the skin to become firm. It is well suited for people with extremely oily skin. However, to know the right dosage, amount, and the number of times to be used on the skin, you need to consult a dermatologist. Note that people may have an allergy to essential oils. If you feel rashes or redness/itchiness in your skin after the application of these products, you must stop the usage immediately and consult a dermatologist.
Also Read:
Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds for Your Health
FAQs
1. How to Check If One Is Allergic to the Product Before Using Pumpkin Seed Oil?
You should do a patch test of any new skincare product you are about to use as a routine only. Take a drop of the product and rub it in your palm. Leave it for like 5-10 minutes. If no reaction is seen, then you may continue to use the product. But if you feel that the product is not suited well in your skin or is creating some trouble in the skin, you should never ever choose to use that product.
2. What Is the Best Way to Store Pumpkin Seed Oil?
To store pumpkin oil, keep it in a cool cupboard, away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration is often recommended after opening.
3. How Long Does Pumpkin Seed Oil Last?
If you do refrigerate the product, bring it to room temperature before you use it. When stored properly, pumpkin oil can last for up to two years.
