Did you know that pumpkins are not only good for your body on the inside but also on the outside? They are great for your skin! Pumpkin is actually an active ingredient in many anti-wrinkle creams and facial treatments. Below are two natural beauty recipes provided by Farmstand Favorites: Pumpkins that harness the many health benefits of pumpkins for your skin.
Pumpkin Pie Enzyme Mask
Ingredients:
3-4 tablespoons ground oats
1 tablespoon milk or heavy cream
2 tablespoons crushed pineapple
3/4 cup pumpkin puree, canned or fresh
1/2 cup honey
Directions:
Mix ground oats and milk or cream in a bowl or mixer. Add crushed pineapple and pumpkin, draining excess water out of fresh pumpkin by squeezing it in a paper towel. Thoroughly blend the ingredients. While stirring, slowly drizzle in the honey, mixing well. Refrigerate in air tight container for 10-14 days. Makes about 4 applications.
To Use:
Apply liberally with fingertips to face and neck area. Leave mask on for 8-10 minutes. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.
Harvest Pumpkin Exfoliating Mask
Pumpkin enzymes dissolve dead skin cells while the cornmeal sweeps them clean. Honey has antimicrobial properties as well as moisturizes and softens. The result is a beautiful glowing complexion. Use this mask as often as you like.
Ingredients:
4 tablespoons pumpkin puree
1 tablespoon honey
4 teaspoons cornmeal
2 teaspoons aloe vera gel
2 teaspoons pineapple, diced
1 teaspoon green tea
1/2 teaspoon sunflower oil
6 drops frankincense essential oil (optional)
4 drops cinnamon extract (optional)
Directions:
Steep green tea in boiling water. Set aside to cool. In blender or food processor, puree pineapple and place in medium-sized mixing bowl. Add pumpkin, honey, and aloe. Mix well. Stir in sunflower oil, green tea, and cornmeal. Discard the remaining green tea. Add frankincense and cinnamon. Stir. Store in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Makes 4 treatments.
To Use:
Apply a small amount of the pumpkin mask to your cheeks, forehead, chin, and neck. Massage in a circular motion, gently buffing skin. Repeat and apply more product as needed. Leave a thin layer of pumpkin mask on face and neck for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with tepid or cool water and pat dry with a soft towel. Follow up with an appropriate moisturizer.
