What is "Curcubita Pepo Seed Oil" and what is its utility?

Curcubita pepo is the botanical name for squash, an annual plant belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family that produces compact and voluminous fruits. Squash was one of the very first fruits brought back from America to Europe by Christopher Columbus. Originally from Central America, squashes are now cultivated all over the world.

Pumpkin seed vegetable oil is obtained by cold pressing its seeds. It is rich in fatty acids essential polyunsaturated (linoleic acid, linolenic acid), in essential monounsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid) as well as in essential saturated fatty acids (palmitic acid, stearic acid). It also contains an unsaponifiable fraction composed of phytosterols, polyphenols, vitamins (A, B2, B3 and E) and minerals (potassium, zinc).

In terms of its organoleptic characteristics, this oil is yellowto dark green in colour with reddish reflections and emits a slight pleasant odour. Being low in comedogenicity, it feels quite dry to the touch and is therefore suitable for both dry and combination skin types.

Pumpkin seed oil contains approximately 12% alpha-linolenic acids, essential fatty acids known as omega-3. These confer upon it excellent properties nourishing, making it a prime ally for dry skin. Moreover, it contains an amino acid with recognised anti-inflammatory properties, the cucurbitin. This acts on the allergic reaction by inhibiting the synthesis of histamine, a potent vasodilator that increases the capillary permeability and activates inflammatory cells. Therefore, pumpkin seed oil is recommended to soothe skin reactions and redness. Furthermore, it contains powerful antioxidants such as phytosterols that slow down skin ageing caused by the overproduction of free radicals.

This ingredient is recommended for combating hair loss. Indeed, research has revealed that pumpkin seed vegetable oil is capable of inhibiting the action of the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme, which is responsible for halting hair growth and causing hair loss. Thanks to its nourishing and emollient properties, it also protects hair follicles and enhances the shine of hair fibres.

When applied topically, there are no contraindications to the cosmetic use of pumpkin seed vegetable oil. It can be used by pregnant women and young children. Sensitive to oxidation, it is best stored in a dry place, protected from light and at a temperature below 25°C.

Note : Thisoilinteracts withingested lithium, so those affected should use it exclusively for external application.

Skincare products containing pumpkin seed oil are typically intended for dry, tired and dull skin, as well as dry, brittle and damaged hair. It is also recommended for hair loss.

Thus, it is possible to find this vegetable oil in facial care products such as serums, creams or even lip balms, as well as in body care products like hand/foot creams and lotions. Hair serums and shampoos can also be enriched with pumpkin seed vegetable oil, to limit hair loss or to add shine.

• HYEONG SOO CHA & al. Effect of pumpkin seed oil on hair growth in men with androgenetic alopecia: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (2014).

• MARDANI M. & al. Beneficial effects of pumpkin seed oil as a topical hair growth promoting agent in a mice model. Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine (2019).

• Where nature & science meet Skincare, haircare, beauty & wellness. Skin (2020).