Tell me, what kind of gourd do you prefer to slather across your face? Do you prefer a winter squash, or do you stay on your PSL aesthetic for fall and reach for some pumpkin? If you’re a fan of the latter, you may be on the right path to clearer, better skin.
According to Dr. Joel Schlessinger, MD, Board-Certified Dermatologist and RealSelf.com contributor, pumpkin actually has antioxidant benefits that are worthy enough of applying over your precious pores. “Pumpkin has antioxidant benefits when applied topically to the skin,” says Dr. Schlessinger. “The antioxidants found in pumpkin help neutralize harmful free radicals from things like smoke, pollution and UV damage.”
According to Dr. Schlessinger, this autumnal gourd is especially beneficial for anyone with oily skin, large pores or acne-prone skin. “The natural exfoliation process helps clarify and detoxify skin, eliminating excess oil and other debris within clogged pores,” he says. “Masks and peels with this ingredient help reduce the appearance of blemishes, blackheads and whiteheads.”
So, ready to rejuvenate your skin with the power of pumpkin? Then take a look at some of our favorite pumpkin-infused skincare products, below:
LovelySkin Pumpkin Clarifying Mask
“The pumpkin enzyme, papaya enzyme and salicylic acid in the LovelySkin Pumpkin Clarifying Mask helps unclog pores and exfoliate skin,” says Dr. Schlessinger. “This mask is especially beneficial for those with acne-prone skin.”
Summer Fridays Overtime Mask
In need of a full-on detox? Then reach for this mask, which is infused with antioxidant-rich pumpkin and exfoliating apricot to polish and prime your skin.
Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial
This best-selling mask is a fan-favorite for its intense exfoliating treatment, all thanks to the powers of fermented pumpkin extract and AHAs.
PCA Skin Nutrient Toner
Toners are essential as a final cleansing step for your skin, so why not give your toner a boost with some clarifying pumpkin? This toner is packed with fermented pumpkin extract and lactic acid to slough away any unwanted dry flakes and grime, while a cocktail of vitamins, enzymes, and amino acids work their magic to balance your complexion.
Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask
If you’re in need of a serious exfoliation treatment, then try out this mask. It has a trifecta of pumpkin enzymes, aluminum oxide crystals, and an alpha hydroxy acid to rejuvenate and detox your skin instantly.
Osmia Organics Pumpkin Facial Soap
Do you usually use drugstore bar soap to wash your face? There’s no shame in that, but why not treat yourself to an upgrade? This facial bar soap is infused with pumpkin for a gentle exfoliation as you wash the day away.
Urban Skin Rx Purifying Pumpkin Pore Detox Mask and Scrub
This under-$20 pick is not only budget-friendly, but it’ll also help cut your routine down. This skincare pick acts as both a scrub and a mask, so your skin will feel freshly cleansed, exfoliated, and refined as within 15 minutes.