Delicious and sweet, pumpkin is one of the seasonal crops of autumn. If you are preparing one for Halloween, keep the pulp and make a great facial cosmetic out of it.

Pumpkins are rich in alpha-hydroxy acids, which makes a great exfoliator. Loaded with antioxidants, beta-carotene, vitamins A and C, pumpkins are literally packed with anti-inflammatory benefits. They even boast of natural UV protectors – making it the ideal skin care ingredient.

You can obtain an easy-to-make facial mask mixing together a few tablespoons of pureed pumpkin with 1 egg white (which will help tighten pores and reduce the appearance of fine lines), 1 tablespoon plain yogurt (which will help exfoliate) and 1 tablespoon honey (which is anti-bacterial, great for clearing acne). Apply to your entire face, avoiding the eye area, and leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing. The yogurt and pumpkin will encourage cell-turnover and exfoliate, while the honey's anti-bacterial properties will ensure a fresh, clean face.