Vitamin A – keeps skin firm and healthy. Beta Carotene – a precursor of vitamin A that helps maintain healthy skin. Vitamins B2 & B3 – They soften the skin and improve complexion. Potassium – It helps regulate the amount of water in cells (along with sodium). Magnesium – This is an essential mineral for skin health. Zinc – It helps with the formation of new skin cells and collagen production.
1. Helps Manage Acne And Other Skin Inflammation
Pumpkin seed oil contains beta-carotene and unsaturated fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. It is effective against acne-causing bacteria like P. acnes and S. aureus. When taken orally or applied topically, pumpkin seed oil can reduce acne inflammation and soothe other acute and chronic skin inflammatory conditions (1), (2).
2. Prevents Skin Infection
Pumpkin seed oil has antimicrobial and antifungal properties and is active against fungi like Candida albicans and bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus (1). Candida albicans causes candidiasis, an itchy skin rash, and S. aureus causes impetigo (a red, itchy sore) and other skin infections like boils and cellulitis (other than acne). Moreover, pumpkin seed oil contains phloem exudate (liquid secreted by the tissue), which adds to its antifungal activity (1).
3. Promotes Wound Healing
A study conducted on rats showed that cold-pressed pumpkin seed oil could promote wound healing. Cold-pressed pumpkin seed oil contains tocopherols, sterols, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. These compounds make it an excellent antioxidant and antimicrobial agent to promote wound healing (3).
4. Minimizes Aging Signs
The saturated fatty acids and antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E in pumpkin seed oil prevent free radical damage and minimize signs of aging. It contains minerals like magnesium, potassium, and zinc, which nourish the skin from within, minimize the appearance of wrinkles, improve skin texture, elasticity, and integrity, and prevent conditions like dermatitis (1),(2), (4), (5). Additionally, it contains vitamins B2 and B3 which keeps the skin soft and improves its complexion.
5. UV Protection
A study shows that pumpkin extract has protective effects against UVB-induced skin damage. It works as a photoprotective agent and minimizes UV-induced collagen damage (6). Several studies confirmed that pumpkin seed oil in herbal and cosmetic formulations could provide superior photoprotection. Its antioxidant properties can reduce the risk of UV-induced skin cancer, photoaging, and skin redness (7), (8).
6. Reduces Hyperpigmentation
Red pumpkin seed extract can also prevent UV-induced hyperpigmentation. It blocks the reactive oxygen species that trigger Nrf2 signal (a pathway that mediates inflammatory factors), thus minimizing the risk of developing pigmentation (9).
7. Makeup Removal
Pumpkin seed oil can be used as an oil cleanser to remove makeup. It thoroughly cleanses the skin without irritating it (10). You can consume pumpkin seed oil or use it topically to leverage its benefits. Here are a few ways to add pumpkin seed oil to your skin care regimen.
How To Use Pumpkin Seed Oil
You can use pumpkin seed oil as a moisturizer and apply it directly to your skin. You can also mix it with your favorite skin products and creams. Use skin care products that contain pumpkin seed oil. Add pumpkin seed oil to DIY face masks or use it as a carrier oil. Consult a nutritionist or dietitian and add pumpkin seed oil to your diet.
Always do a patch test before using pumpkin seed oil as it may cause some minor side effects.
Side Effects Of Pumpkin Seed Oil
Pumpkin seed oil is considered safe, but it may cause allergic reactions like:
Swelling Redness Inflammation.
Consult a dermatologist if you experience any of the symptoms.
The Takeaway
Does pumpkin seed oil tighten skin? Yes, pumpkin seed oil contains vitamin A, which tightens the skin by improving its texture and elasticity. But more research is needed to prove this claim. Will pumpkin seed oil clog pores? Pumpkin seed oil may clog your pores if you have oily or combination skin as it has a low comedogenic rating. However, it is recommended for acne, which is common in oily skin, as it has anti-inflammatory properties. Does pumpkin seed oil help with cellulite? Pumpkin seed oil may help reduce cellulite. Pumpkin flesh contains flavonoids, which may have anti-cellulite properties. Is pumpkin seed oil good for your lips? Yes, pumpkin seed oil is good for the skin on your lips. It keeps your skin moisturized and can reduce dryness or chapped lips.
