What do I do with that leftover pumpkin?

Don’t throw away those leftovers! Pumpkin has long been used in skin care products and makes a fantastic ingredient for facial masks. It is wonderful for all skin types and is packed with useful enzymes that exfoliate the skin naturally, plus is high in vitamins A (alpha hydroxy acid), C (antioxidant) and Zinc. Adding honey, a natural humectant, is great for dehydrated skin…and almost everyone except my toddler son suffers from dehydrated skin. Mix in a bit of milk for moisture and you’re set. Here’s a basic recipe:

2+ teaspoons of fresh cooked pumpkin or certified organic canned pumpkin
1/4 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon milk* (lactic acid, an AHA)

*If your skin is oily, use soy or skim milk; if your skin is dry, swap the milk for heavy whipping cream. Organic only please!

Mix ingredients together and apply to face using clean hands or a facial brush. Leave on for 10-15 minutes and relax, enjoying the Autumnal aroma of pumpkin. Rinse with cool water and follow with a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type. If used during daylight hours, apply an SPF with or to follow your moisturizer.

This is also a wonderful mask for hands and feet. Apply and wrap in plastic wrap. Leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse with cool water and apply hand/foot cream.

Happy Fall!