Creamy Pumpkin Peel

Years ago, when I worked at a day spa, the "pumpkin peel" was one of the most popular treatments on the menu.  It's no wonder.  Pumpkin is a fabulous skin care ingredient -- it exfoliates, smoothes, softens, and brightens the skin.

We used a mass-produced pumpkin peel, but I was determined to create one of my own.  The following is one of my favorites.  It has a creamy consistency and reminds me of pumpkin pie.  Yummy!

It doesn't save well, though, so you have to make it fresh every time.  Totally worth it. 

Creamy Pumpkin Peel
     2 tablespoons canned or fresh pumpkin puree
     1 tablespoon buttermilk powder (may substitute powdered milk)
     1 teaspoon rice bran
     1 teaspoon vanilla yogurt
     ½ teaspoon honey
     1-3 teaspoons yellow illite clay (may substitute clay of your choice)

In a small bowl, mix all ingredients except clay until very well blended.  Slowly add in clay until you get the consistency you like (a slightly thick, creamy paste.)

To use: Warm mixture slightly in a microwave or by placing the bowl into a shallow bowl of hot water.  Massage over the face, neck and chest.  Let set 2 to 10 minutes.  Remove when the skin begins to show slightly pink.  Rinse very well.  Apply a facial oil or moisturizer.

Yield: 1 treatment