A Different Halloween Mask

By Gabrielle Boerkircher and Lindsey Galloway

Pumpkins pop up everywhere this time of year, especially as carved jack-o’-lanterns and in festive fall pies. But this popular October staple has another great use: skincare. Pumpkins pack the powerful antioxidant vitamin A, which helps counterbalance pesky free radicals and prevent wrinkles, as well as zinc to aid in cell regeneration. Some companies have added pumpkin to lotions, creams, and facial masks—but we say skip the store and try this DIY recipe for a soothing pumpkin mask:

In a food processor, combine 3 tablespoons cooked pumpkin, 2 teaspoons milk, and a pinch of stimulating cinnamon and ginger. Process until smooth, then smear mixture onto your freshly washed face. Avoid sensitive areas around the eyes, and let mask sit for 10 minutes. Rinse off with water, and enjoy the healing power of pumpkin.
—Gabrielle Boerkircher and Lindsey Galloway