DIY Pumpkin Puree Mask

A pumpkin-based facial helps the skin absorb other nutrients in the mask (See Reference 1).

Many different everyday items can be used to create facial masks to help exfoliate, soften and rejuvenate skin. Pumpkin makes a good choice for people with more sensitive skin since it tends to be less harsh than some chemical products. Pumpkins contain high levels of Vitamin A, Vitamin C and zinc and help the skin absorb beneficial ingredients when applied as a mask. Either fresh or canned pumpkin made into a paste refreshes and treats skin, resulting in a healthy, fresh look.

Things You'll Need

• 2 teaspoons cooked or canned pumpkin
• 1/2 teaspoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon milk

Instructions

1. Puree the pumpkin in a blender to make a smooth paste.

2. Mix the pumpkin puree, honey and milk together until well blended. The honey helps the skin retain moisture and regenerate cells while the milk helps eliminate dead skin.

3. Apply the mixture to your face, leaving an area around the eyes so none of the material enters the eye. Leave the mask on for ten to fifteen minutes.

4. Rinse with warm water until all the material from the mask is removed and follow up with moisturizer.

Tips & Warnings

• Add 1/4 teaspoon heavy cream or 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar to the mixture to add further moisture and exfoliation for particularly dry skin.

• Add 1/4 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or cranberry juice if you have particularly oily skin since these products help balance skin pH levels and increase healthy circulation.

References

• Dawn Career Institute's New Beginnings Spa: Skin Care, Facials and Machine Treatments
• Care2.com: Pumpkin Face Mask Rich In Vitamins A, C, and Zinc Read more: http://www.care2.com/greenliving/pumpkin-face-mask-vitamin-rich.html#ixzz1bptPFbxn