Have some left over Pumpkin after preparing Pumpkin Bread? Do you know you can use it as an exfoliating mask for your skin?

While the name is simple, it smells more like Pumpkin Pudding would 😉 So don’t be tempted to eat it instead of using it on your skin.

Ingredients

Pumpkin Puree – ¼ Cup
Honey – 1 Tsp.
Cinnamon – a pinch or two
Yogurt – 1 Tsp.
Oatmeal – 1/ 2 Tsp.

Instructions

Puree a few pieces of Pumpkin to get pureed pumpkin.

Add all the other items listed in the ingredients to a mixings bowl.

Add Pumpkin Puree to this and mix well.

Done!

How to Apply the Exfoliating Mask?

Apply to your face and neck and let it sit for 5 – 7 minutes.

Wash off and pat dry.

Follow-up with a toner and moisturizer.

Why These Ingredients?

Rich in Vitamin C, E and A, Pumpkin is a wonderful ingredient for skincare. It helps get rid of dead skin cells and exfoliates your skin gently.

A humectant, Honey will not only leave your skin soft and smooth, it will nourish and hydrate your skin. Rich in antioxidants it keeps ageing skin signs and acne at bay.

Rich in enzymes and lactic acid, Yogurt hydrates, cleanses, exfoliates and nourishes the skin. It also leaves your skin soft and supple.

Cinnamon helps fight acne and improve skin’s blood circulation. It is also a natural antibacterial and fights skin issues like acne.

Shelf Life

While I prepare fresh batches every time, you can also prepare al larger batch and refrigerate for a week. I haven’t tried longer durations but you can try and see how that works and let us know too ☺

Frequency

You can use this mask once a week – it is an exfoliating mask. Do not do other exfoliation routines when you use this mask.

Tips to Tweak the Recipe

Sensitive Skin? Rosacea? Eczema or Psoriasis? Leave out the Cinnamon or add according to what your skin can manage without flaring up. Mild redness is normal after using cinnamon on your face and usually goes away within 15 minutes or so.

Oatmeal is ideal for those with sensitive skin, though you can also use Rice Flour, Almond Meal, Apricot Kernels (crushed), or even a dash of salt of Baking Soda to this recipe for exfoliation.

If your skin is dry you can add a spoon of Olive Oil to this recipe.

I like to add a dash of Lavender Essential Oil for exfoliation – I have noticed it is a gentle exfoliator.

You can also add crushed flower petals for a softer exfoliating aid instead of flours or kernels or salts. I have tried Lavender and Rose with good results.

You can add a few drops of Rose Water or Vanilla Essence to this recipe for added aroma and soothing effect.

Don’t have time for DIY Recipes? Try Aya Naturals for your skin and face care requirements. If you have any requests, queries or doubts, feel free to write back to us anytime. We love hearing from you.