Pumpkin Facial Treatments at the Spa or DIY!
- Posted on: Oct 15 2014
Did you ever notice how soft your hands were after carving a pumpkin and pulling out the seeds? Both the seeds and the flesh of pumpkins are loaded with health benefits. These benefits can be delivered both topically and through diet. Pumpkin contains vitamins A and C, antioxidants and minerals to nourish the body and help build tissue. Applied topically, enzymes from the pumpkin gently exfoliate dead skin cells without scrubbing, which can break capillaries and can be too harsh for sensitive skin. (Read about the benefits of pumpkin seeds in our previous blog HERE)
A Tip from the Desk of Dr. Asarch: It may seem strange to put pumpkin on your face instead of eating it, but products that contain actual pumpkin enzymes and pumpkin oil can be very beneficial to your skin health. Don’t be confused by pumpkin scented products. Fragrance has nothing to do with it. Look for beauty products with pumpkin actives, oils or enzymes.
In November Asarch Dermatology will once again offer our seasonal favorite pumpkin facial treatment.
LUXURIOUS & BRIGHTENING PUMPKIN PEEL FACIAL TREATMENT
This indulgent facial treatment includes a cleansing with Pumpkin Cleanser, a facial massage with Pumpkin E Oil and a Pumpkin Enzyme Peel. Natural enzymes found in the flesh of the pumpkin gently exfoliate dead skin cells and encourages cell turnover without scrubbing, which can be too harsh for sensitive skin. Pumpkin E Oil provides antioxidant support and nourishes, leaving your skin soft and smooth.
Want to DIY it?
During the colder months, our skin tends to be drier and we need extra exfoliation to remove dead cells and help underlying skin absorb our skincare products. If you don’t have time for a spa day or want to skip the preservatives in store bought products, you can make your own treatments!
Fall Facial Mask
1 tbsp cooked & pureed or canned pumpkin
1/2 tsp honey
1 tsp jojoba oil
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
Combine the above ingredients and apply to a clean face with soft circular motions. Be sure to avoid the eye area. Leave mask on for 10 – 15 minutes or as long as you can tolerate it. Rinse with warm water, pat dry, and apply your favorite moisturizer.
Pumpkin Pie Spice Body Scrub
1/2 cup cooked pureed or canned pumpkin
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Combine ingredients in a bowl. Apply the mixture with a damp washcloth in the tub. Work in circular motions to exfoliate and soften the skin. Rinse and pat dry. Apply your favorite body moisturizer.
Store both products in air tight containers in the refrigerator. They should last for about one week. Enjoy!
Happy October!
Posted in: Blog Post