Cottonseed Oil
Cottonseed oil, derived from cotton plant seeds, is a versatile vegetable oil with a neutral flavor and high smoke point. Its mild taste makes it a popular choice for various culinary applications, including frying, baking, and salad dressings.
It is also used in the production of soaps, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals due to its stability and texture-enhancing properties. In the context of hair loss, it is not a popular oil.
Is it effective against hair loss?
As of now, we have limited information and scientific studies regarding the use of topical cottonseed oil in relation to hair loss. In this article, we will mainly rely on deductions drawn from its components.
In general, vegetable oils share quite similar compositions, and cottonseed oil is no exception.
Here are the major components of cottonseed oil:
- Linoleic acid: 53%
- Palmitic acid: 25%
- Oleic acid: 16%
- Stearic acid 2%
- Other compounds: Rich in vitamin E, gossypol
Interestingly, the composition of cottonseed oil closely resembles that of wheat germ oil. Based on my research, cottonseed oil may potentially address hair loss in the following manner:
Concerning gossypol, it’s essential to mention that commercial cottonseed oil contains an extremely small quantity, less than 0.1%. Therefore, it can be regarded as virtually nonexistent.
Anti-androgen properties
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a natural androgenic hormone synthesized by our bodies from testosterone in various tissues. This conversion is mediated by an enzyme called 5-alpha-reductase (5aR).
DHT is a significant factor in androgenetic alopecia, as it plays a role in the inflammatory process occurring in the scalps of individuals genetically predisposed to hair loss. This process leads to the gradual thinning of hair, a phenomenon known as miniaturization. Therefore, reducing the formation of DHT is believed to potentially reduce hair loss.
Cottonseed oil comprises 53% linoleic acid and 16% oleic acid. These two fatty acids, accounting for a total of 69% of this oil, have the capacity to inhibit 5-alpha-reductase and thus decrease the production of DHT (source) (source).
Gossypol also has the ability to inhibit 5αR. However, as mentioned earlier, the gossypol content in commercial cottonseed oil is exceedingly low, at less than 0.1%, due to its high toxicity (source).
In a study conducted in 1992 by T. Liang and S. Liao, oleic, linoleic, elaidic, linolelaidic, and gamma-linolenic acids were found to demonstrate anti-DHT properties through the inhibition of 5aR.
(source)
Consequently, it can be inferred that the topical application of cottonseed oil may reduce DHT formation and, in turn, potentially alleviate or even prevent androgenetic alopecia.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Inflammation is a defense mechanism of the immune system that is triggered when the body experiences any form of attack, such as infection, irritation, muscle strain, or injury.
Interestingly, nearly all types of alopecia are characterized by the presence of chronic inflammation in the scalp, and reducing this inflammation has proven effective in minimizing hair loss (source).
Cottonseed oil is composed of 16% oleic acid. In several studies, oleic fatty acids has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activities (source) (source) (source) (source).
Other studies also also suggested that cottonseed oil possesses anti-inflammatory properties. However, it’s important to note that these studies do not specifically focus on hair loss, and topical application does not guarantee anti-inflammatory effects.
Antioxidant properties
Oxidative stress is one of the contributing factors to hair loss. This condition arises when free radicals outnumber the body’s antioxidants, often due to factors such as stress, a poor diet, or exposure to pollution.
Oxidative stress can lead to significant health problems, including hair loss, inflammation, premature aging, heart disease, and certain types of cancer (source).
Cottonseed oil is known for its potent antioxidant properties, primarily because of its high content of vitamin E.
In a 2010 study led by Lim Ai Beoy and colleagues, it was observed that vitamin E supplementation could effectively reduce hair loss (source).
In fact, the group receiving a daily dose of 100 mg of vitamin E, in the form of tocotrienols and alpha-tocopherols, experienced a significant increase in hair density. Over 8 months, this group saw their hair density rise from 284.8 to 383.1, marking a remarkable 34.5% increase, while the placebo group showed no changes.
Researchers concluded that this hair growth stimulation was directly linked to the antioxidant properties of vitamin E.
Numerous other studies and articles also support these antioxidant attributes (source) (source) (source).
Linoleic acid’s potential to boost hair growth
Cottonseed oil comprises around 53% linoleic acid.
According to a 2021 study led by Hwa Sun Ryu and their team, linoleic acid is believed to activate the Wnt10b/β-catenin signaling pathway.
This pathway is directly linked to the hair growth cycle, and its activation extends the anagen phase, which promotes hair growth. Additionally, it enhances the proliferation and survival of follicular cells.
Based on the findings of this study, it is plausible to consider that oils containing linoleic acid may offer potential effectiveness as treatments for androgenetic alopecia.
Closing thoughts and verdict
Although no studies have been conducted on human alopecia, I believe that the topical application of cottonseed oil could be beneficial in addressing hair loss if you use it along better treatments.
It has anti-androgenic and antioxidant properties. Furthermore, its anti-inflammatory properties may assist in reducing chronic inflammation. Additionally, its very high linoleic acid content could potentially stimulate hair growth.
If you are interested in trying cottonseed oil, I can recommend using it as a carrier oil to maximize its effectiveness in combination with specific essential oils.
Precautions & side effects
- May cause digestive issues in some sensitive individuals, such as stomach cramps or diarrhea.
- Risk of allergic reactions or intolerance in people with cotton or cottonseed allergies.
- Can interfere with iron absorption, potentially leading to iron-deficiency anemia.
- Even small quantities of gossypol in the oil can have long-term adverse effects.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider and exercise caution.
- Opt for high-quality refined cottonseed oil with low gossypol content.