If your hair is growing dryer as the weather turns cooler, then it is time to boost your moisture with a deep conditioning treatment. If you cannot get enough of all things pumpkin spice right now, then you will be happy to know that pumpkin has amazing benefits for your hair too!

Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A, C and potassium. Vitamin A is an antioxidant and is excellent for the scalp. Vitamin C helps for overall hair health and growth. In addition, potassium can promote re-growth of hair.

“Pumpkin hair masks are good for all hair types," says Mo from Modern Rosies and creator of Madd Science Cosmetics. "But they are especially helpful for dry or damaged hair.” Mo also suggests adding about 1/8 cup of apple cider vinegar if you’re concerned about over-moisturizing your hair.

These measurements will vary depending on your hair length and density, if you have very long hair or very dense hair you may want to increase these amounts. Just be sure to stick to the same general ratios.

What you'll need:

1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree - or raw pumpkin, if you prefer

2 tablespoons unrefined coconut oil - it is one of the few oils that truly soaks into your hair

2 tablespoons honey - it is a natural humectant, meaning it attracts water or moisture to your hair

There is little to no significant difference between using raw pumpkin and canned pumpkin for this. If you prefer to use raw pumpkin (or have a spare that you want to put to good use), follow these steps to prepare your pumpkin:

Cut a medium-sized pumpkin in half and scoop out the seeds. Chop the pumpkin into smaller chunks and place the chunks in a microwave-safe bowl.

Spray the pumpkin chunks with cooking oil, cover, and heat on high for approximately 15 minutes.

Measure 1/4 cup of your freshly cooked pumpkin and use it in the recipe in place of canned pumpkin.

Directions

Mix all three of the ingredients together in a bowl until fully incorporated Apply the mixture throughout your detangled, cleansed hair Cover with a shower cap, and let the mixture sit on your hair for 15 minutes Rinse with cool water and style as usual

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Quick Tips

A few drops of peppermint oil will create a sensational fragrance for your hair as well as a soothing feel on your scalp.

If you have any allergies to pumpkin or other squash foods, do a test run on a small section of your hair before applying the homemade hair mask to your entire head.

Vegans may substitute agave nectar or vegetable glycerin for the honey

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