Fall pumpkins rejuvenate dry summer skin

Fall pumpkins rejuvenate dry summer skin

Pumpkin has naturally powerful enzymes and, when applied to the skin, delivers important nutrients for cellular rejuvenation.

by Jeannie Marcelino —  

A symbol for fall, the pumpkin, has proven it is more than just a culinary ingredient. It is also a beauty ingredient for radiant skin as the weather gets cooler. Loaded with antioxidants, enzymes and vitamins C and K, the mighty pumpkin not only does a body good but also serves as an awesome alternative to harsh exfoliators.

Pumpkin has naturally powerful enzymes and, when applied to the skin, delivers important nutrients for cellular rejuvenation. If used often, it will strengthen skin structures and restore softness and elasticity. As a gentle and effective exfoliator, pumpkin gets rid of dead skin cells for a good epidermal turnover.

This amazing gourd is also an effective antioxidant. With our constant exposure to pollutants in the environment, sun, stress and poor diet, our skin needs the pumpkin’s antioxidant qualities to neutralize the free radicals that abound. That means fewer wrinkles and healthier skin structures for all.

As a skin and body expert, I believe in the power of the pumpkin. When I smell fall in the air, I start recommending pumpkin enzyme facials and body treatments to my clientele, because they work wonders on summer-exposed skin. The antioxidants in a pumpkin treatment enhance your skin almost magically. New skin cells are exposed, and your skin is brought to another level, creating a radiant glow as you make the transition to fall.

While getting a pumpkin body and facial treatment from a skin professional is ideal, many of us do not have a lot of time (or money) for such luxuries. For a low-cost everyday pumpkin treat, try these easy, tried-and-true recipes using ingredients straight from the pantry to help you achieve radiant skin.

Pumpkin Facial Mask

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons cooked or canned pumpkin
• 1/2 teaspoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon milk (or whipping cream for very dry skin)

Directions:

Combine ingredients and apply to a clean face with gentle circular motions, avoiding the area around your eyes. Allow mask to remain on skin for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water, pat dry and apply your usual moisturizer.

Pumpkin, Sugar and Spice Scrub

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cooked or canned pumpkin, puréed
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions:

Combine ingredients in a bowl. Stand in a tub or shower stall and use a damp washcloth to scoop up some of the mixture. Apply to body, starting with your feet and working your way up but avoiding your face. Scrub gently using circular motions. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.

Jeannie Marcelino is with Suddenly Slimmer Day Spa — a medSpa that offers anti-aging, wellness and other services. Located in Phoenix, it incorporates Oriental medicine, Ayurveda therapies and homeopathy. www.suddenlyslimmer.com, 602-952-8446 or [email protected].

Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 33, Number 5, October/November 2014.