Use of Safflower Oil in Hair Growth Treatment

Since ancient times, plant extracts have been widely used for hair growth promotion in the traditional Ayurveda, Chinese and Unani systems of medicine. One of the most potent sources of these plant extracts would be the oil extract of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.).

Historically, safflower has mainly been used in traditional medicine to treat different medical conditions and as dyes for flavouring and colouring in Italian, French and British cuisines.

Interesting fact? Safflower seeds and garlands have also constantly made their appearance in the presence of mummies across ancient Egypt. In the treatment of skin conditions, safflower can be used to treat skin patches and baldness based on Iranian traditional medicine. 

Use of safflower oil in the prevention and treatment of hair loss

In a 2011 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology by Naphatsorn Kumar, the mechanisms involved and the effectiveness of hair loss treatment using plants were examined by determining the relationship between the activities of the 5α-reductase enzyme inhibition and hair growth promoting activities. When tested for 5α-reductase inhibition using enzymes from rat livers and hair growth promoting activity in mice, safflower extract was found to be the most potent inhibitor of the enzyme and the strongest hair growth promoter among 17 Thai plants traditionally used for hair treatment.

“Our team worked on this basis to incorporate Safflower Oil into our existing haircare and scalp care routine to stimulate hair follicles and also to heal the hair shaft.” Accredited Dermatologist, Dr. Teo Wan Lin

How does safflower oil promote hair growth and fight hair loss?

Safflower florets have traditionally been used for hair growth promotion. In the study by Naphatsorn Kumar, the potential of safflower extract on hair growth was examined both in vitro and in vivo. 

It was found that safflower oil encourages hair growth by promoting the proliferation of both dermal papilla cells and HaCaT and by stimulating hair growth-promoting genes such as the vascular endothelial growth factor and keratinocyte growth factor. At the same time, it suppresses the expression of the hair loss-related gene, the transforming growth factor‐β1. As a result, the treatment of hair using safflower extract significantly increased the length of cultured hair follicles and stimulated the growth of hair.

Are there any side effects?

There are no known side effects except for allergic contact dermatitis which is extremely rare. 

How can it be incorporated in your haircare regimen?

The LipiShine™Intensive Hair Treatment Serum is made with the purified seed oil of ethanolic extract of Carthamus tinctorius. It is recommended for use on the hair ends as well as on the scalp.

Dr. Teo Wan Lin is an accredited dermatologist by the Ministry of Health specialising in diseases of the skin, hair and scalp. Book an appointment for your hair and scalp concern here