Natural Beauty with Pumpkins
It's fall which means Pumpkins! These round, smooth skinned squashes can be found just about everywhere and if you were lucky enough to grow your own even better! Native to North America pumpkins are one of the oldest domesticated plants, having been used as early as 7,500 to 5,000 BC.
We are all familiar with them as a food source or a fun fall decoration for your home but did you know that pumpkins are also a valuable anti-aging and skin care ingredient?
Fresh pumpkin contains fruit acid enzymes that help remove dead skin cells and surface impurities from your skin. These enzymes are less irritating than many of the commercial alpha hydroxy acid products and gentler to your skin. Keeping your complexion clean and clear will make it look fresher, healthier and younger. Pumpkin also has anti-inflammatory properties making it naturally soothing and can be used by all skin types. Here are a few DIY recipes for you to try at home:
Pumpkin Body Scrub
Fresh pumpkin contains fruit acid enzymes that remove dead skin cells with less irritation than commercial products. The lovely orange pulp also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it naturally soothing.
Ingredients:
3-4 cups fresh pumpkin flesh with seeds
Directions:
In a food processor or blender, process the pumpkin flesh until you have a smooth, grainy puree. To use: Standing in the tub or shower, massage the pumpkin mixture into your skin starting at your feet and working your way up. This mask is mild enough to be used on your face. Let the mask rest on your skin for 5 minutes. Rinse your skin in a warm bath or shower and pat dry.
Yield: 16 ounces, enough for two body masks
Pumpkin Pie Facial Mask
Pumpkin contains fruit acid enzymes that help remove dead skin cells and surface impurities from your skin. These enzymes are less irritating than many of the commercial alpha hydroxyl acid products and gentler to your skin. Pumpkin also has anti- inflammatory properties making it naturally soothing and can be used by all skin types.
Ingredients:
2 Tablespoons pumpkin puree, canned is fine
1 teaspoon greek yogurt or sour cream
1 /2 teaspoon pure honey
Directions:
Stir all of the ingredients together until smooth. Spoon into a clean container with a tight fitting lid and store in the refrigerator. To use: Massage into clean damp skin and let sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse well with warm water and pat dry. Follow up with a rich moisturizer or light natural oil. Store leftover mask in the refrigerator or freezer
Yield: 1.5 ounces
For more easy Fall beauty recipes check out the recipes in my book "Natural Beauty for All Seasons."
For this month use the code PUMPKIN for 20% off.
You are beautiful!
xoxo Janice