Discarded Pine Cones Transformed into Eco-Friendly Shampoo for Hair Loss

A valuable new use has been found for immature pine cones, which were previously discarded as forest waste. Researchers at the Gyeonggi Province Forest Environment Research Institute have successfully developed a technology to create an eco-friendly shampoo that helps alleviate hair loss symptoms.

The institute has licensed its patented technology, "Composition for inhibiting inflammation containing immature pine cone extract," to Netulid Co., Ltd., a company based in Gyeonggi Province. This collaboration has led to the development of a functional solid shampoo designed to combat hair loss.

Typically, when pine cones are harvested for edible pine nuts, only about 13% of the cone yields usable nuts. The remaining immature cones, often falling prematurely due to climate change and increased pest infestations, were largely considered forest waste. The institute recognized the hidden potential in these discarded materials.

“

Our forest resources have led to wonderful results in product development and overseas expansion for local companies, which is very meaningful.

Through extensive research, the institute discovered that extracts from immature pine cones possess excellent skin-calming and anti-inflammatory properties. This finding paved the way for developing an eco-friendly material suitable for scalp and hair root health management.

Netulid Co., Ltd., a company specializing in vegan products that avoid plastic packaging, was drawn to the institute's technology. They saw the Korean pine cone as an ideal natural ingredient for their vegan product line. Incorporating 식약처-certified ingredients for hair loss relief, they have now completed the functional solid shampoo. The product is launching in South Korea and is poised for European export, with an MOU already signed with a Swedish company.

“

We will continue to help more companies succeed in commercialization by verifying the bio-performance of unused forest resources and distributing extracts, centered around the Sea Scent Arboretum.