At this time of year, pumpkins and Hallowe’en go hand in hand, but pumpkins and skin? You may not think so, but read more about this seasonal squash and you may just change your mind.
- Pumpkins are Rich in Antioxidants. If you’re serious about skin care, you already know that antioxidants are one of the cornerstones of a good regimen. Not only do they fight free radicals that can damage the skin and bring out visible (and invisible) signs of aging, but antioxidants can also enhance the effectiveness of sunscreens in preventing sun damage. Luckily, pumpkins are rich in vitamins C and E, two of our favorite antioxidants which, coincidentally, work synergistically together to protect cell membranes from oxidative damage, brighten skin tone and stimulate collagen production.
- Pumpkins Contain Fruit Enzymes and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). The most important function of these natural exfoliants is to remove the top layer of dead skin, helping to reveal healthier, newer skin below. Exfoliants work by weakening the binding properties of the lipids that hold dead skin cells together, allowing the outer skin to “dissolve” and get washed away. Regular exfoliation with an AHA will lead to softer, smoother skin. It’s no surprise, then, that pumpkin enzyme and pumpkin ferment have been showing up with more regularity in masks and face washes.
- Pumpkin Seed Oil Contains Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs). Although it may not have made the same splash as rosehip and argan oil, pumpkin seed oil is nonetheless packed with the skin-benefitting properties of essential fatty acids, particularly omega-6 linoleic acid. The best way to increase the amount of EFAs your body gets is by increasing the amount of vegetables, nuts, seeds and cold water fish in your diet. Though you may be consuming enough, these supplements may not make their way to your skin, which is why topical application is a good idea. It’s thought that EFAs are metabolized by the skin, resulting in free fatty acids that are then incorporated into the lipids making up the skin barrier and decreasing the evaporation of water from the skin.
- Pumpkin Seed Oil is a Great Source of Zinc. Zinc has been shown to improve symptoms related to rosacea, acne and oily skin. Zinc also assists in the healing of the skin so it’s no surprise that La Roche Posay has added it to their Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel cleanser and Cicaplast B5 Soothing Repairing Balm.
All those good things that pumpkin has going for it? It’s enough to put a big ol’ jack-o-lantern smile on my face.
