Head-to-Toe Pumpkin Mask

 Pumpkin is loaded with more than 100 vitamins and nutrients that feed

your skin. It’s a naturally nourishing, hydrating exfoliant. Paired with the

skin-brightening, clarifying orange, soothing oats, and moisturizing olive

oil found in this recipe, this mask can be used from head to toe for a

gorgeous glow! The active enzymes in the pumpkin may cause a tingling

sensation. A slight warming on the skin will be normal due to the fresh

ginger and cinnamon.

YIELDS: 1–2 full body masks

1 cup flesh of 1 small pumpkin, prepared, or 1 can pumpkin

⁄ cup cooked oatmeal

⁄ teaspoon ground cinnamon

⁄ cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger

⁄ teaspoon fresh grated orange zest

1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed orange juice

⁄ cup raw turbinado sugar

What you will need: knife, cutting board, saucepan with lid, steamer,

spoon, fork, measuring cups, measuring spoons, mixing bowl, tight-

sealing storage container

1. To Make: Begin by preparing the fresh pumpkin, or skip this step and use

canned. Cut the pumpkin into quarters or medium 3–4-inch chunks, leaving

rind on. Place rind-side down (flesh up) in a vegetable steamer. Bring to a

boil, reduce heat to simmer, and cover. Steam 10–15 minutes until a fork

will easily glide through the chunks, like a cooked potato. Be careful not to

overcook, it as it will lose potency. Remove from heat and let cool to the

touch. Scoop out the pumpkin flesh with a spoon, discarding the rind.

Reserve 1 cup for this recipe and use the remainder for soup, a pie, or

custard. Place the prepared pumpkin in the fridge. While the pumpkin is

steaming, cook the oatmeal by following the directions on the package.

Place the cooked oatmeal in the fridge to ensure it has completely cooled

before moving onto the next step. In a medium-size bowl, use a fork to

blend together the oatmeal, cinnamon, and olive oil. Let stand for 10–15

minutes and begin preparing the other fresh ingredients. Mash the pumpkin

and add to the bowl along with the grated ginger, orange zest, and orange

juice and stir to a uniform consistency. Add the sugar and blend well.

2. To Store: This mask will store in the refrigerator for up to a few days in a

clean, airtight container. The pumpkin will oxidize quickly, so it’s best to

use ultra fresh rather than prepare ahead of your home spa day.

3. To Use: For best results, take a quick shower or use after a long soak in the

tub to soften your skin and remove surface dirt and toxins. The warmth of

the shower will open your pores and the moisture on your skin will provide

a conduit for the mask to start working faster and more effectively. Towel

dry and apply a generous layer of the mask over your body. You can wrap

yourself in a clean sheet or plastic wrap and relax in an empty bath tub, or

just sit on your towel. Let the body mask work its magic for 15 minutes,

then apply to the face. Leave on the face for 3–7 minutes. Jump in the

shower and rinse off. You may want a washcloth to help remove the mask.

Use a mild body wash or soap and moisturize with your favorite lotion or

body oil.