“In Their Expert Opinion” features three bloggers who bring special expertise on living a natural lifestyle to The Clear Conscience Blog. Each month, we’ll share tips and advice on how to live a little greener from a few of our favorite experts.

By Elizabeth Dehn, BeautyBets.com 

                    Photo Credit: http://weheartit.com/entry/15502577 

I find it rather humorous that the magic pumpkins held for me as a child—picking them, carving them, roasting the seeds—has evolved into a deeper appreciation of what they can do for my skin. The enzymes in pumpkin pulp act as a natural and surprisingly powerful exfoliant, giving skin a wicked glow. Pumpkin also contains Vitamin C, which brightens and helps banish sunspots. Skincare companies figured this out long ago, creating scrubs, masks and serums that smell as good as pumpkin pie and often work as well as professional facial. Unfortunately, they often contain harsh chemicals and cost more than a free-range turkey. The good news is that you can whip up your own pumpkin-infused treatment while the kids are carving, or make it anytime canned pumpkin. In this easy DIY facemask, honey soothes and hydrates while the dairy moisturizes. 

Pumpkin Face Mask

• 3 tsp fresh pureed or canned pumpkin (not pie filling)
• 1/2 tsp honey
• 1/4 tsp milk or whipping cream if skin is extra-dry

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Avoid eating with a spoon. Apply to clean skin and leave on for 10–15 min. Rinse with warm water and follow with moisturizer. 

Disclosure: The bloggers featured in the Clear Conscience Blog “In Their Expert Opinion” series have received product samples and compensation from Watkins, Inc.