Emollient

Pumpkin Seed Oil

Pumpkin Seed Oil — a plant oil from pumpkin seeds, rich in fatty acids and zinc. Nourishes, strengthens the skin barrier, and has a light sebum-regulating effect due to its high content of phytosterols and essential fatty acids.

nourishing oilrich in zincsebum regulationphytosterols

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

1/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Pumpkin Seed Oil (INCI: Cucurbita Pepo Seed Oil) — a plant oil with a fatty acid profile dominated by linoleic acid (omega-6, ~40-50%) and oleic acid (omega-9, ~30%). A unique feature: natural zinc and phytosterol content (including delta-7-sterines), which distinguish it from typical cosmetic oils. Mechanism of action: emollient and nourishing function + potential sebum-regulating activity related to zinc and phytosterol content, which may modulate the activity of 5-alpha-reductase (similar to the action studied in the treatment of hyperandrogenic skin conditions).

Products for oily and combination skin, anti-aging creams and serums, scalp care products and hair loss treatments, nourishing body butters.

Key Benefits

✦

Sebum-regulating action due to zinc and phytosterols

Pumpkin seed oil contains natural zinc and a unique profile of phytosterols, which theoretically may modulate the activity of sebaceous glands and reduce excessive sebum production. Mechanism: zinc is known for its role in regulating the activity of 5-alpha-reductase — an enzyme associated with hormone-induced hyperactivity of sebaceous glands. Result: potential benefits for oily skin and scalp prone to excess oiliness.

◈

Nourishment and strengthening of the barrier

Thanks to the balanced profile of essential fatty acids (linoleic and oleic), pumpkin seed oil effectively nourishes and strengthens the skin's lipid barrier. Mechanism: fatty acids integrate into the structure of intercellular lipids in the stratum corneum, supporting its elasticity and moisture retention ability. Result: reduced dryness, increased skin resistance to external irritants, improved overall texture and softness.

✧

Antioxidant protection from carotenoids

The natural content of carotenoids (which give the oil its characteristic dark green color) provides additional antioxidant protection for the skin against oxidative stress. This complements the nourishing action of fatty acids, forming a comprehensive approach to maintaining skin health and radiance. Often used in formulations for scalp care (against hair loss) due to the combination of sebum-regulating and nourishing properties.

Suitable for

oily and combination skinscalp prone to oilinessdry skin needing nourishment

Main Actions

✓ sebum-regulating action✓ nourishment and strengthening of the barrier✓ antioxidant protection

Pumpkin Seed Oil: concentration and stability

Pumpkin seed oil has a limited shelf life due to its content of unsaturated fatty acids — storage in a dark, cool place is recommended. INCI: Cucurbita Pepo Seed Oil. Concentration: 1-10% in serums and creams, up to 100% in standalone oil products for the scalp.

CategoryEmollients

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