When that first cold fall breeze hits, I run for the pumpkin fields.

More realistically, I open a can of pumpkin puree and throw it into all my food and beauty recipes. Exfoliate that glowing skin while indulging in the sweet smell of pumpkin spice with this Pumpkin Spice Body Scrub. I dare you not to have a taste.

Ingredients

Pumpkin contains enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids, which help to renew the skin by getting rid of dead skin cells and revealing fresh skin cells underneath. It also has vitamins A and C to even out skin tone, stimulate collagen production, and protect from free radicals. Pumpkin also contains many minerals needed for healthy skin such as copper (for collagen and pigmentation) and zinc (for oily skin and acne).

Brown sugar makes a great addition to this scrub because it is a gentle exfoliator. It is a good option for those who have sensitive skin [always me] because brown sugar particles are smaller and not as coarse as salt or white sugar. Glycolic acid (an alpha hydroxy acid) is found in sugar and helps to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells from the top layer of skin, unveiling fresh healthy skin. It is also a natural humectant, which means it draws moisture to the skin.

Cinnamon is antibacterial and anti-fungal, which help to heal acne and prevent new breakouts. It brings blood and oxygen closer to the outer layer of the skin, which helps to “plump” the skin and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.

Nutmeg (like cinnamon) is antibacterial and anti-fungal, which help to heal acne and prevent new breakouts. It also can lessen the appearance of scars and inflammation.

Cloves are an incredibly powerful little spice, and are often used for healing cold and flu. They have antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties which help to clean the skin and heal acne.

How to Make and Use Pumpkin Spice Body Scrub

This recipe is for a one time use. Pumpkin puree will not store well outside the fridge for long.

Add 1 tablespoon of pumpkin puree to your container of choice.

Next, add 2 tablespoons of brown sugar.

Finally, add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, or a combination of 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg and 1/4 teaspoon of cloves.

Mix with a fork/spoon and try to resist tasting it. I may have had a few licks. Oops.

Put a small amount of scrub in your hand and apply gently in circular motions to your body. Scrubbing too hard or too often can do more harm than good. It can make skin dry out or cause small tears. When finished with the scrub, rinse off and continue with regular shower routine.

Happy Pumpkin Spice Exfoliating 🙂

What do you use to exfoliate skin? Have you made your own scrub before?