Spooky season is just around the corner. That means you are going to have lots of pumpkin leftovers, which, unfortunately, often go to waste. This is a real shame because you lose the chance to get all the incredible benefits of this fruit. Pumpkin is the pure gold of the fall season. It is rich in a variety of vitamins, essential fatty acids, enzymes, and alpha-hydroxy acids that are crucial for keeping your skin healthy and nourished. Keep on reading to learn about all the benefits of pumpkin and how to make a simple face mask for every skin type and concern.
Benefits of Pumpkin Mask
Regulates Sebum Production and Fights Acne
Sebum is an oily substance produced by sebaceous glands located in hair follicles. Some people develop a condition called sebaceous hyperplasia when the gland becomes enlarged and overactive. Too much oil can cause a hardened plug to form, which can then lead to different types of acne.
A pumpkin face mask contains alpha-hydroxy acids that can easily penetrate the top layer of skin to dissolve the mix of sebum and dead skin that leads to breakouts. It is also rich in zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin E, which also regulates oil production and reduces inflammation.
Provides Anti-Aging and Antioxidant Benefits
After age 40, you may start to see major changes in your skin tone and structure. Your face may look saggy because collagen and elastin production go down. You may also have pronounced wrinkles and pigmented spots. While you may begin to invest more in aesthetic procedures, the most successful patients combine in-office treatments with at-home skin care.
The pumpkin face mask can quickly return a fresh and healthy look to tired skin. It contains niacin, riboflavin, B6, and folate, which increase blood circulation to nourish skin cells and carry away free radicals. The pumpkin also enhances the production of collagen, reducing fine lines and dryness. As stated before, it contains AHAs that break down dead cells, which speeds up the regeneration of new cells.
Brightens and Evens Out Skin Tone
Our skin constantly sheds dead cells and replaces them with new ones, but if the process isn’t working efficiently, you may have a tired and unhealthy appearance. Unlike radiant skin, which has a smooth surface and reflects light evenly, dull skin has an uneven texture and lacks a natural glow. The best way to prevent this condition is to make exfoliation part of your routine.
Pumpkin is just as nourishing as it is exfoliating. It dissolves layers of dead cells and fills the skin with healthy fatty acids, resulting in a glowing effect. Besides that, pumpkin is rich in beta-carotene that promotes faster cell turnover and alters skin color to enhance facial attractiveness. In addition, this fruit is a perfect source of vitamin C that inhibits the production of melanin, making your skin brighter and fresher.
How to Make Pumpkin Masks?
Pumpkin recipes are very simple and surprisingly effective. There are a lot of options for any skin type and concern. Choose the one that suits you best:
Pumpkin Mask for Oily Skin
Ingredients:
- 3 pumpkin cubes
- 1 egg white
Directions:
- Grate the 3 pumpkin cubes finely.
- Mix the shredded pumpkin with the egg white to form a consistent paste.
- Apply this mixture to your cleansed face.
- Allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and proceed with your regular beauty regimen.
For additional skincare tips tailored to oily skin, refer to our article, “Skin Care Routine for Oily Skin.”
Pumpkin Mask for Dry Skin
Ingredients:
- 3 pumpkin cubes
- 3/4 cup of heavy cream
Directions:
- In a pan, combine the pumpkin cubes and heavy cream.
- Bring to a boil and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Mash the pumpkin until you achieve a smooth texture.
- Apply the warm mixture to your cleansed face.
- Leave it on for 15 minutes.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and continue with your regular beauty regimen.
For more skincare advice, especially for dry skin, refer to our article: “Skin Care Routine for Dry Skin.”
Pumpkin Mask for Aging Skin
Ingredients:
- 3 pumpkin cubes
- 3/4 cup of milk
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp. honey
Directions:
- In a pan, combine the pumpkin cubes with the milk and bring to a boil for 10-20 minutes.
- Once boiled, mash the pumpkin until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- Add in the egg yolk and honey, mixing well.
- Apply this warm mixture to your cleansed face.
- Leave on for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and proceed with your regular skincare routine.
Top Product Picks by Our Editors
Can't spare a moment for DIY? Here are our handpicked favorites:
What a mask! Pumpkin Honey Glycolic Mask is made of organic components. Non-GMO and cruelty-free. It dissolves dead cells, resurfacing for an even tone, smooth texture, and radiant complexion.
If you want your skin to feel baby-soft, replenished, and hydrated, you should try this mask. Arista Pumpkin Enzyme Mask contains 95% pumpkin puree, vitamin C, vitamin E, and 3-5% glycolic acid.
Close your eyes and imagine the freshly baked pumpkin pie. Feel the smell? I bet you love it. Earthly Garden Pumpkin Mask has the same scent of comfort and coziness. It is hand-made and contains all-natural ingredients. Vegan, Paraben-free.
Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Mask is the strongest among all the above products and can be too much for sensitive skin. It can resolve almost every common skin concern – dullness, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines. The mask seems a bit expensive, but you get a lot of bang for your buck!
