Days are shorter, the weather is crisp and fall is officially upon us. Nothing says autumn like the scent of pumpkin pie and cinnamon spice. No longer confined to the kitchen, estheticians are discovering pumpkin as a rich source of antioxidants and enzymes that helps promote smother, younger-looking skin.
SunWater Spa in Manitou Springs, Colorado is offering a special fall combination: a 60-minute Pumpkin Mask Facial + Peppermint Foot Massage, October through December 2019 for $85. Pumpkin can help increase the rate of cell renewal, and peppermint can aid in alleviating headaches, increasing energy and improving sleep.
According to spa director Gabriela Silva, “Pumpkin contains a variety of nutrients that are beneficial to our skin. In addition to enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that increase cell renewal and brighten skin, pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, which help smooth and soften skin while boosting collagen production to decrease fine lines. Pumpkin also contains zinc, which can ameliorate acne symptoms.”
If you don’t have time to visit SunWater Spa, here are some DIY facial and hair treatments featuring pumpkin from StyleCraze.
Pumpkin Facial
Mix 2 teaspoons of cooked or canned pumpkin puree with ½ teaspoon honey, ¼ teaspoon milk, and ¼ teaspoon heavy whipping cream. Apply this evenly on your face, avoiding the eye area, and let it settle 10-15 minutes. This mask exfoliates, nourishes and conditions your skin. Rinse off with warm water and apply a moisturizer meant for your skin type.
Conditioner for Dry Hair
Mix 2 cups of chopped and cooked pumpkin with 1 tablespoon coconut oil, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 tablespoon yogurt. Make a puree with the mixture of pumpkin and yogurt in a food processor or blender. Then add coconut oil and honey to make a smooth mixture. Apply it to damp shampooed hair, wear a plastic shower cap, and leave for 15 minutes. Rinse off thoroughly and style as usual.
If you thought cinnamon was just for oatmeal and tea, think again. Loaded with antioxidants, this anti-inflammatory miracle helps your body fight infections and repair tissue damage.
Cinnamon Facial Scrub
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Gently massage the scrub on your skin, and breathe deeply.
Think out of the proverbial box and embrace the season with pumpkin and spice for rejuvenation, relaxation, and refreshment.