The Beauty Benefits of Pumpkin (Plus the Best Skin Care Products That Have It)

You know fall is finally here when you start seeing pumpkin products of all different kinds line store shelves. As festive as the use of this ingredient may be, there’s another reason it’s becoming increasingly popular during all seasons, not just fall: Pumpkin is loaded with a number of vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for our overall health and can provide a number of beauty benefits, too.

The Beauty Benefits of Pumpkin

“Pumpkin is made up of alpha hydroxy acids (similar to glycolic acid and lactic acid), which are fruit acids that slough dead skin cells, increase cell turnover and keep the skin glowing,” explains Lily Talakoub, M.D., dermatologist at McLean Dermatology and Skincare Center. “Pumpkin also has the added benefit of containing beta-carotene, a vitamin A-derivative that decreases wrinkles, helps slough brown spots and can help reverse UV damage.” Zinc is also plentiful in pumpkin, which Dr. Talakoub calls “nature’s best healing agent,” for its acne-preventing and skin-healing abilities.

Pumpkin is also loaded with vitamin C, which helps boost your body’s immunity to fight off colds, the flu and infections, as well as helps fight sun damage and free radicals on the skin, preventing aging, wrinkles and brown spots, according to Dr. Talakoub. “Vitamin A is another pumpkin goodie—it helps improve your vision, reduces the risk of cataracts of the eye and minimizes acne scars,” she adds.

Ready to take advantage of the myriad of beauty benefits of fall’s favorite fruit (yes, fruit!)? Here are the pumpkin-containing beauty products that experts say are worth trying year-round.

1. Eminence Organic Skin Care Pumpkin Latte Hydration Masque 2 fl. oz

Eminence Organic Skin Care Pumpkin Latte Hydration Masque 2 fl. oz

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12 reviews

$57.00

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For ultimate hydration through the change in seasons, treat your skin to this revitalizing face mask that eliminates impurities thanks to ingredients like pumpkin purée and orange pulp. Pumpkin is rich in enzymes as well as amino acids that fight visible signs of aging and refine your skin’s tone and texture.    

2. Luzern Nuit Hydra Enzyme Masque (2 fl. oz.)

Luzern Nuit Hydra Enzyme Masque (2 fl. oz.)

11 reviews

$150.00

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This hydrating overnight mask exfoliates and nourishes your skin all while you’re deep asleep so that you wake up feeling refreshed, revitalized and ready to take on the day. It contains pumpkin enzyme, hyaluronic acid, organic sweet almond oil and olive-derived squalane to dissolve dead skin cells, oil and dirt.

4. Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask (5 fl. oz.)

Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask (5 fl. oz.)

67 reviews

$60.00

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Loaded with real pumpkin enzymes that dissolve facial impurities and replenish moisture, this mask provides the benefits of a professional-strength peel, mask and exfoliator all in one deliciously scented formula. In addition to pumpkin enzymes, this exfoliating mask also contains AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), which help brighten the surface of the skin. The result? Visibly smoother skin and tighter pores with a radiant, lit-from-within glow.

5. PCA SKIN Dry Skin Relief Bar (3.4 oz.)

PCA SKIN Dry Skin Relief Bar (3.4 oz.)

15 reviews

$60.00

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Dr. Kazin recommends this hybrid cleansing solid as a great “in-the-shower cleansing bar” that harnesses the power of pumpkin extract and salicylic acid to help hydrate and soothe dry, flaky skin. “We carry this one in our office and I personally [like to] use it during the winter months,” she adds.

6. One Love Organics Vitamin B Enzyme Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover (4 fl. oz.)

One Love Organics Vitamin B Enzyme Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover (4 fl. oz.)

195 reviews

$45.00

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Doubling as both a makeup remover and a cleansing oil, this all-natural product clears pores of dirt and other impurities while restoring the skin’s moisture and pH balance thanks to a gentle blend of nutritive ingredients. Pumpkin oil takes center stage, as it is rich in vitamin E, zinc, omega 3- and 6-fatty acids, all of which work together to retain moisture, tighten skin and fight free radicals.

7. Glo Skin Beauty Pumpkin Enzyme Scrub (2 fl. oz.)

Glo Skin Beauty Pumpkin Enzyme Scrub (2 fl. oz.)

4 reviews

$48.00

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Combining both physical and chemical exfoliation, this scrub works to remove dead skin cells from the skin’s surface to reveal a brighter and softer complexion. Pumpkin extract is a key ingredient, as it helps to reduce skin inflammation, promotes collagen production and provides glycerin, which is known for its hydrating benefits, explains Debra Jaliman, M.D., NYC dermatologist, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and author of Skin Rules. Another key ingredient in this scrub is aloe, which reduces irritation for skin that is visibly smoother and luminous.