DIY All-Natural Pumpkin & Spice Exfoliating Face Mask
DIY Face Mask DIY Skincare & Beauty Natural Beauty
I want to make it clear that this is a pumpkin & spice exfoliating face mask recipe.
Why is she telling me this? It’s in the title, duh.
Yes, I know.
But the recipe could also easily be called “Homemade Pumpkin and Spice Pudding” or something along those lines since all of the ingredients are
- Edible
- Sure do make for one yummy concoction!
So do feel free to double or triple the batch for a healthy snack while letting the mask sink in and work its magic!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon raw puree pumpkin (fresh is best, but otherwise canned or in a carton is fine)*
- 1/2 teaspoon raw honey
- 1/2 teaspoon plain yogurt (I like Greek yogurt to thicken the mixture)
- Optional: 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon**
*Be sure “pumpkin puree” is the only ingredient! You don’t want to be using pumpkin pie filling, which is very different!
**Best to leave the cinnamon out if you have particularly sensitive skin, psoriasis, eczema, or rosacea, since cinnamon can cause burning and redness.
Sounds yummy, right? And it totally is. But make sure you have enough to cover your face before you go eating any of it!
Let’s break these ingredients down a bit…
Pumpkin is high in the antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E, as well as natural enzymes that help to slough away dead skin cells, gently exfoliating the skin.
Raw honey is a natural humectant, which means it draws water to the skin and locks in moisture. It’s also packed with antioxidants and gently helps to eliminate acne-causing bacteria.
Plain yogurt contains enzymes and lactic acid to exfoliate, hydrate, and soothe skin.
Cinnamon is a natural antibacterial that helps to clarify skin by fighting acne-causing bacteria. It also helps to increase circulation to the upper layers of the skin (but note: this can cause redness, so it’s best to only use the mask at night or at least an hour before needing to go out in public!).
Directions
Mix all ingredients together until smooth and spread a thin layer evenly across your face. Depending on your pumpkin and yogurt type, the consistency will vary. I used to a thin pumpkin puree from a carton and Greek yogurt, which in the end gave me a runny consistency. No matter the thickness, a thin layer is sufficient. Within a few minutes, you will likely start to feel the mask tingle. These are the enzymes kickin’ in!
Keep it on for only about 3-6 minutes depending on the sensitivity of your skin (less time for more sensitive skin if you do choose to include the cinnamon). Wash the mask off with warm water and pat dry. Follow with a mild, nourishing moisturizer.
NOTE: If you add the cinnamon, your skin may be a little red afterwards! Don’t worry — for me, this subsides in about 15 or so minutes.
Interested in more DIY all-natural skincare recipes?
Well you’re in the right place, my friend!
Hang around a bit and check out some of these other goodies I know your sweet little natural-beauty-loving heart will definitely enjoy!
What about storing the unused scrub? Refrigerate or is it fine at the different bathroom temperatures?
Hope you enjoy it, Cathy! 🙂
I wouldn’t apply more than once a week. And remember, since it exfoliates your skin you don’t need to exfoliate as well or at least be careful – you don’t want to overdo it and irritate your skin.
I appreciate anything pumpkin, Thank you!
A question though, how often should this mask be applied weekly for any benefits?
Thank you!
Hmm I wouldn’t personally keep it for longer than a week and I’d make sure the bowl is super clean.
If i were to make a larger batch of this in advance (obviously kept refrigerated) about how long could i expect it last?
I LOVE your recipes! I’ve tried a half a dozen and I can’t wait to try more! You’ve successfully fuelled my natural skin care addiction 😛 Question about this mask – If I wanted to make a bit of a bigger batch or had left overs, can it be kept in the fridge for any length of time?
LOL coming from the Edible Facial lady herself, that’s a real compliment! Thanks, Sarita! Hope you enjoyed it 🙂
This looks so delicious – er – I mean so great for the skin. [Ahem.] I might have to try this tonight or tomorrow a.m. I’ve got all the ingredients 🙂 Awesome DIY!