Key skincare ingredient: pumpkin

Date

10.15.19 More info+

Five products featuring the autumnal fruit

In our key skincare ingredient series, we focus on products that feature unexpected, interesting items.

Pumpkin isn't simply a seasonal superfood, the fruit is also a beneficial beauty ingredient. “Using pumpkin topically is a way of getting in vitamins A, C, and E, plus essential fatty acids which help reduce the signs of aging and deliver moisture to the skin,” says Sheel Desai Solomon, M.D. a dermatologist in Raleigh, North Carolina. Pumpkin’s natural acidity helps increase cell turnover, so skin appears smoother and more glowing. Ahead, five pumpkin-infused products to consider.

The cleanser:

Ole Henriksen The Clean Truth Foaming Cleanser

In this thick face wash, hydrating pumpkin, orange, and grapefruit extracts help remove dirt and makeup without stripping skin. Zinc, naturally occurring in pumpkin, can also help regulate oil production and stabilize hormones to alleviate acne, Solomon says.

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The booster:

Elemis Superfood AHA Glow Booster

Here, fermented pumpkin and acerola cherry—both rich in alpha hydroxy acids—work together to help reduce inflammation and combat dryness, explains Solomon. The booster is designed to be used after cleansing and toning but before moisturizing. According to the brand, skin will receive an infusion of vitamins and antioxidants and appear less puffy.

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The serum:

Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum

Apply this serum in the morning after washing your face. Says Solomon, the treatment will provide collagen-boosting effects thanks to those fatty acids and vitamin C in pumpkin. Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant which helps allow skin to repair itself from sun damage and scarring.

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The mask:

Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask Enzymatic Dermal Resurfacer

This exfoliating mask uses pumpkin enzymes, which are known for their ability to slough off dull skin and create a more even tone. As a result, the skin purportedly will have a smoother surface and appear more youthful. Apply once or twice a week after cleansing.

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The moisturizer:

Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Glow Moisturizer

This fruit-forward product includes pineapple, pumpkin, and papaya enzymes to naturally exfoliate the skin and stimulate an even complexion. Pumpkin's alpha hydroxy acids will also help lighten brown spots, explains Solomon.

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