Pumpkin oil for face: 7 useful masks for beautiful skin, reviews

Pumpkin is a universally recognized home healer. It contains a complex of vitamins, minerals, unsaturated fats and healthy fatty acids. Pumpkin oil is widely used in cosmetology for the face. It is also called “green gold”. The product guarantees a quick and effective transformation of the skin, making it velvety and soft. The oil extract will be a real salvation for dry and aging skin. For details of its use, possible contraindications and precautions, pros and cons, read on.

general description

Pumpkin oil is a product rich in nutritional components, fats and healthy acids. It is often added to face and body skin care products, hair cosmetics, and home cosmetology cannot do without it.

A useful extract is obtained from pumpkin seeds using cold pressing technology. It is a flowing, oily liquid with a pleasant nutty aroma. The color of the pumpkin product may vary slightly between manufacturers, ranging from dark yellow to dark green and dark ruby. In addition, if you look at the oil from different angles, its color may vary.

Pumpkin oil is classified as a base oil. It can be applied to the skin in its pure form, made into compresses or homemade masks. It is preferable to use the extract for those with dry and mature skin. The product promotes intensive hydration of the skin, making it elastic and soft.

Natural pumpkin oil is also suitable for internal use. With its help, you can replenish missing vitamins and nutrients in the body, improve the functioning of the kidneys and prostate gland, lower cholesterol levels, and speed up the treatment of gastritis and ulcers. The extract can be used as a natural antibiotic to relieve and prevent inflammatory processes in the body.

You can prepare a valuable extract at home. For this you will need pumpkin seeds. Algorithm for preparing the product:

1. Dry the pumpkin seeds and remove the skins.
2. Pour the prepared raw materials with water and bring to a boil over low heat.
3. After 7 minutes of boiling, remove the seeds to cool completely.
4. Strain the seeds and grind them in a blender.
5. Separate the oil from the resulting mass by squeezing or pressing.
6. Strain the extract through cheesecloth.

Important point! Homemade pumpkin oil may taste bitter, be more viscous, and dense, unlike store-bought oil. This fact is due to the fact that the industrial extract goes through several stages of purification.

A little history

The benefits and value of pumpkin oil were sung by the Persian medieval scientist and physician Avicenna (Abu Ali ibn Sina), using it as a medicine for many diseases. And pumpkin seeds are still found in the graves of Peruvian Indians.

The first mention of pumpkin seed oil in later times was in 1739. A separate book on pumpkin seeds states that they are used to make a sweet oil that can make the skin soft and tender.

Later, in 1773, by order of Maria Theresa (Empress of Hungary, Austria and Bohemia), pumpkin oil began to be used not only for culinary purposes, but also as a component of medical plasters and medicinal ointments.

In the first half of the 18th century, pumpkin extract was also used in warfare as a lubricant for cart components due to its high content of saturated fatty acids. This idea still remains relevant and is used as an important component of lubricating oils.

To prepare the popular remedy, “pressing trees” were used. Over the years, technology has improved and trees have replaced hydraulic presses.

The leader in the production of nutritious oil today remains the Austrian province of Stria. It produces about 2,000 tons of valuable product every year.

It is worth noting that in medieval Europe, vegetable oil was quite expensive; purchasing 200 g of extract was on par with the cost of a massive gold ring. And at the beginning of the last century, the cost of 1 liter of plant product was about 90 pounds sterling, perhaps it was after this that it began to be called “green gold.”

Pumpkin oil for face: what effect does it have on the skin?

1. If you lubricate your face with pumpkin seed oil 2-3 times a day, you can quickly heal sunburn (as well as get rid of bruises). Therefore, natural pumpkin extract can be used as a sunscreen or in addition to it.
2. Nicotinic acid contained in this oil activates blood circulation, which is why skin cells are effectively supplied with oxygen and nutrients.
3. In addition, the oil product can protect the skin from pigmentation.
4. Selenium in pumpkin seed oil quickly soothes skin irritations (which can be used by men after shaving), protects against adverse external conditions and slows down the aging process.
5. Rutin helps get rid of acne and blackheads.
6. Vitamins (E, C) and flavonoids prevent the formation of capillary points and bruises on the face, strengthening blood vessels.
7. Natural pumpkin oil extract in combination with some esters can also be used for massage procedures to soften the skin.
8. Pumpkin oil is very useful for the treatment of certain dermatological diseases of the face (psoriasis, acne, dermatoses, acne, rosacea, urticaria, etc.).

Thus, pumpkin seed oil used in home recipes for the face can have a bactericidal, antiseptic, antifungal and anti-inflammatory effect on the skin.

Beneficial features

Pumpkin seed extract is widely used in cosmetology and medicine for a reason, due to the rich chemical composition of the product. It contains:

• a complex of vitamins C, groups B, E, A, K, F, T, capable of preserving and restoring lost beauty, health of the skin and the body as a whole;
• over 50 macro- and microelements, especially zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, calcium and selenium, the action of which contributes to the proper functioning of organs and systems, the brain, the musculoskeletal system, and improves the immune system;
• polyunsaturated fatty acids (linoleic, linolenic acids from the Omega-6,3 family). They stabilize and improve cardiovascular activity, have a beneficial effect on the digestive, nervous and endocrine systems, help cleanse the body and epidermal cells of toxins and harmful substances, and normalize hormonal levels.
• phytosterols, phospholipids, chlorophyll and other biologically active substances that have a positive effect on the functioning of individual organs and the body as a whole, stimulating rapid wound healing and having a high bactericidal effect.

Among the beneficial properties of pumpkin products in matters of dermatology and cosmetology, it is worth highlighting the following:

• antiseptic;
• bactericidal;
• anti-inflammatory;
• reduces wound pain;
• stimulates the regeneration of damaged tissues;
• prevents the development of hematomas and capillary mesh on the face;
• reduces the risk of developing infection and new acne;
• delicately cleanses the skin of dead cells;
• intensively moisturizes the skin;
• cares for tissues inflamed by active sunlight;
• prevents the appearance of stretch marks;
• eliminates oily shine, normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands.

It is almost impossible to harm the skin with regular use. Very rarely, an allergic reaction develops in the form of peeling and redness. The oil does not clog pores and is not comedogenic.

Ready analogue

If you are not ready to spend time creating a pumpkin mask yourself, but you have heard about its beneficial properties and want to experience them for yourself, you should be interested in the Too Cool for School Pumpkin Sleeping Pack night face mask. This is a Korean product that has received many rave reviews.

The mask spreads easily over the face and is quickly absorbed, leaving neither stickiness nor film. A product with pumpkin oil improves skin condition, eliminates the feeling of tightness, perfectly moisturizes and improves complexion.

Indications for use

An indication for the use of a plant extract can be any skin problem: from an inflamed pimple to rapid fading of the skin, excessive dryness and flaking. The type, age and extent of the epidermal problem does not matter. The oil should also be used for preventive purposes, to prevent early aging of the skin, the development of dermatological diseases, acne and inflammation.

Regular use of pumpkin oil on the face and body guarantees the following changes:

• swelling of the skin decreases;
• lipid and carbohydrate metabolism improves, the problem of increased fat content and dry skin is solved;
• wounds, abrasions, bruises heal several times faster;
• the number of pimples and inflamed areas on the face noticeably decreases;
• the skin becomes soft and velvety;
• a lifting effect appears;
• the face looks younger, the tone and microrelief of the integument are evened out;
• dryness and peeling of the epidermis disappears;
• there is a deep but gentle cleansing of the integument, including from toxins and harmful substances;
• the skin becomes more resistant to aggressive environmental factors;
• the deepening of old wrinkles and the appearance of new ones slow down, the rate of aging of the epidermis is suspended.

By the way. Using pumpkin oil, you can treat dermatological diseases such as psoriasis, acne, dermatoses, and acne.

Pumpkin extract is a powerful activator of regeneration processes; it triggers the synthesis of natural elastin and collagen. The product can be used for all skin types, even sensitive and problematic. However, the product is most popular among beauties with problematic, dry and aging skin.

Where can I buy

You can purchase the plant extract at a pharmacy, a specialized cosmetic store, or on online platforms. However, keep in mind that the product is not cheap. On average, you will have to pay about 300 rubles for 100 ml of extract.

It is recommended to store the pumpkin product in a cool (+15ºС) and dark place, in a tightly closed container. The shelf life is 12 months; after opening, this figure is halved.

Storing a product prepared at home is slightly different. Optimal conditions: temperature from + 5 to + 10ºС, container - glass, no sunlight. The shelf life, if all requirements are met after opening the bottle, is 1 month.

Important point! Oil should be stored only in sealed packaging, away from sunlight and at constant temperature control.

When purchasing pumpkin seed oil, pay attention to the following factors:

• the oil should be thick and not spread on a sheet of paper, this is due to the method of its preparation (cold pressed);
• dark glass packaging is required;
• you should choose an unrefined product;
• rich color;
• pleasant light aroma;
• a high-quality purchased product does not taste bitter;
• The manufacturer and shelf life are indicated on the packaging. The storage period should not exceed 1 year.

The best beauty recipes for the face

The process of transforming and restoring health and youthful skin with pumpkin seed oil can be carried out in several directions.

1. Apply the extract to cleansed skin in its pure form. To do this, spread a thin layer of the product onto the surface of the face and leave for 20-30 minutes. After a while, remove any remaining oil with a napkin and wash your face if necessary.
2. Use in combination with ready-made cosmetic products. A few drops of pumpkin oil added to a skin care cream, serum or mask enhances the effectiveness of the product and allows you to achieve a more pronounced effect. Mix the components immediately before application. Before application, the skin should be prepared (cleaned, steamed if necessary).
3. Add or use as a basis for homemade scrubs and face masks. The choice of recipe depends on the tasks (cleansing, nutrition, hydration, rejuvenation, etc.) and the type of integument. All ingredients must be of high quality and fresh. It is unacceptable to exceed the dosage of any component.

We offer the TOP 7 most popular and effective face masks with the addition of a valuable extract:

Mask 1.

For gentle cleansing, improving blood circulation and complexion. To prepare the mask you will need:

• 5 tbsp. l. pumpkin oil;
• 1 tbsp. l. pumpkin seeds crushed in a coffee grinder (without peel);
• 10 drops of liquid vitamin A;
• 15 drops of liquid vitamin E;
• 4 drops of rose ether.

Mix all ingredients. Distribute the resulting mixture onto your face and massage for 5 minutes, as if rubbing the nourishing mass into the skin. It is recommended to do soft peeling up to 2 times a week, not more often.

Mask 2.

To normalize the secretion of the sebaceous glands, eliminate the sebaceous sheen characteristic of oily skin types. You need to mix:

• 8 drops pumpkin oil;
• 15 g oat flour;
• 18 ml of natural liquid honey.

The mask is applied to a cleansed and steamed face. Exposure time: 15–20 minutes.

Mask 3.

To improve your complexion, make your skin soft and velvety, use the following ingredients:

• 2 tbsp. l. pumpkin oil;
• 30 g of carrot pulp (grate the carrots onto a fine grater);
• 1 tsp. cosmetic talc.

Heat the cosmetic oil slightly in a steam bath, add the remaining ingredients. Apply the prepared mixture to your face, excluding the area around the eyes. After 30 minutes, remove the remnants of the mask using a cotton pad and lemon water (at the rate of 1 tbsp lemon juice per 1 liter of warm water). Apply your usual skin care cream.

Mask 4.

To replenish the lack of nutritional components and improve the condition of dry skin, use the following mask:

• ½ cup of boiled bean pulp;
• 8 ml lemon juice;
• 8 g walnut oil;
• 8 g pumpkin oil.

Mix the ingredients thoroughly until smooth, spread the mixture onto the prepared skin. After 30 minutes, rinse off the remaining mask with water and apply care cream.

Mask 5.

To intensively moisturize the skin and combat dryness and flaking, mix:

• 5 ml pumpkin oil;
• 25 g natural sour cream;
• 6 ml of natural liquid honey;
• 6 ml cinnamon.

The components of the mask are mixed and applied in a dense layer. Exposure time - 15 minutes. Afterwards, the remaining product is washed off with water and a care cream is applied.

Mask 6.

prevent the appearance of new wrinkles and achieve a rejuvenating effect :

• 1 tbsp. l. pumpkin oil;
• 1 tsp. castor oil;
• egg yolk;
• 1 ampoule of vitamin PP (nicotinic acid);
• 3 drops of liquid vitamin A;
• 5 drops of liquid vitamin E.

Mix cosmetic oils and liquid vitamins A, E and heat slightly in a water bath, add beaten yolk and nicotinic acid. Apply the mixture to prepared skin, including the sensitive area around the eyes, and onto the surface of the lips. After 20–25 minutes, rinse off the remaining mask with warm water.

Mask 7.

For deep cleansing of pores and treatment of acne, you need pumpkin oil and a piece of gauze in 2-3 folds. Soak a gauze pad in a cosmetic product and place it on the problem area for 10 minutes. Upon completion of the procedure, rinse your face with lukewarm summer water.

Summing up

Pumpkin is one of the universal cosmetics: it will moisturize, even out the complexion, cleanse, protect from the sun or wind and frost, soften, tighten... To make masks with it effective, follow the rules:

1. The fruit is needed weighing up to 5 kg, without damage, whole, not in pieces;
2. Large-fruited pumpkin is ideal for masks;
3. The mask is prepared before use;
4. The skin should be prepared before the mask by cleansing and steaming;
5. Masks that can rejuvenate include cottage cheese, aloe, cream, clay, honey, etc.

Pumpkin can be a good remedy in the fight for youth when used regularly in masks, scrubs and lotions. Regularly – this is at least once every seven days.

For lips, eyelashes and eyebrows

Oil products made from pumpkin seeds allow you to quickly and safely moisturize your lips and improve their color. Apply a small amount of product to the surface of your lips.

make your eyelashes and eyebrows thicker and more beautiful by regularly applying pumpkin extract. Be careful not to get the product into your eyes. It won't do any harm, but it will cause discomfort.

Pumpkin seed oil is also used to transform hair. Every time you wash your hair, add valuable pumpkin extract to your shampoo and hair conditioner. After 2-3 weeks of regular use, you will notice positive changes.

How to use internally

Pumpkin seed extract is often used in folk medicine to treat diseases of organs and systems, dermatological ailments, and strengthen the immune system. The possibility of using the drug, the absence of contraindications and dosage should be checked with your doctor. Self-medication can negatively affect your health!

To treat diseases of the kidneys, liver, heartburn, gastritis, cholestasis, enterocolitis, it is enough to take 1 tsp orally. pumpkin oil 3-4 times a day. The extract is consumed half an hour to an hour before meals, without drinking water.

To improve immunity, for preventive purposes it is recommended to consume the oil 2 times a day for a month. Longer use (up to 2 months) is prescribed for the prevention of atherosclerosis.

The plant product is also useful for dressing salads and main courses. The extract will give the dish a pleasant nutty aroma and fill it with vitamins and nutrients.

Pumpkin extract should not be used orally for such disorders and diseases as:

• diabetes;
• cholelithiasis;
• diarrhea;
• individual intolerance.

It is unacceptable to use a product that has expired, is counterfeit, or is of poor quality and has undergone heat treatment.

You should not eat rye bread or fresh juices with pumpkin oil. In other words, it is better to avoid foods that are high in acid.

Note! Using the oil internally may cause stool thinning. Upon completion of therapy, the laxative effect will disappear.

Pumpkin oil in cooking

First of all, it is important to say that this oil is not suitable for high-temperature processing (stewing, frying), since it has a low smoke point.

In cooking, pumpkin oil is used to season hot dishes. Add a little to the finished dish and it will be filled with a new aroma. Suitable for stewed vegetables, side dishes of cereals and pasta, vegetable soups, purees, various cereals.

An excellent combination with legumes, pumpkin itself, and zucchini. This is a good dressing for vegetable and fruit salads. Many people now prepare mayonnaise at home, and this oil easily replaces olive or sunflower oil. Try it once and never give up again. The taste, of course, changes, but it becomes special, with a “twist”.

Suitable for adding to any sauces, even desserts.

Advantages and disadvantages

Pumpkin extract is highly valued for its excellent medicinal properties. Its advantages also include:

• versatility - suitable for all skin types and ages;
• has a composition rich in nutrients;
• a positive effect with regular use is guaranteed; after the first procedure, the skin becomes soft and velvety;
• ease and safety of use - does not cause an allergic reaction, can be used in its pure form;
• quickly relieves inflammation, accelerates the healing of wounds and sunburn;
• overdose is excluded;
• can be used in several ways, each user chooses a convenient option;
• can solve many health problems when taken orally;
• used in cooking.

The disadvantages of “green gold” include its cost. In addition, for a full effect, course use is recommended; single procedures cannot guarantee a tangible and lasting result.

User reviews

Pumpkin seed oil is considered a delicious medicine. It is used internally and externally, without fear of possible side effects and complications. The following user talks about such an application.

The benefits and naturalness of vegetable oil are also discussed in the following review.

Pumpkin seed cosmetic oil is considered an excellent natural moisturizer. The next participant talks about this. In addition, the product can be used during pregnancy.

You will read about the effectiveness of the extract in skin restoration

Pumpkin seed oil is an opportunity to look perfect without resorting to plastic surgery. In addition, the aromatic product can be used not only externally, but also taken as food. This medicine will bring pleasure not only to you, but also to your loved ones!

Pumpkin oil. Compound

The composition of pumpkin oil varies, depending on the plant variety. But any type of oil has a lot of proteins, a unique zinc content, and useful acids. In addition, it contains many vitamins and microelements, hormone-like substances. And essential phospholipids are no longer found anywhere except pumpkin seed oil.

The liquid looks thick and has a subtle nutty aroma. In daylight, the color takes on a golden-orange hue. If applied to the skin, it softens instantly, it becomes velvety.