Since it’s really easy to become overwhelmed when searching for a new product, Ingredient Spotlight is here to break down the basics. This week we’ve got pumpkin on the brain, and it’s not just because it’s fall. Read on below to discover the skin and hair benefits of pumpkin extract.

There are two types of people in the fall: Those who sip on pumpkin spice lattes, stock their pantry with pumpkin-flavored everything, and Instagram pumpkin patch outings, and then there are those who roll their eyes at the mere mention of any of the above.

To those in camp number one, get ready to pumpkin-ify your beauty routine, and to those in camp number two, don’t worry – pumpkin extract-infused skin and hair care is anything but “basic”.

Read on below for five ways pumpkin extract can benefit your skin and hair this fall and beyond.

It exfoliates.

A smoother, brighter complexion awaits those who use products that contain pumpkin extract. It’s made up of fruit enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), meaning it boosts cell turnover and removes dead skin cells that clog pores and make skin look dull.

It’s anti-aging.

The ingredient is packed with antioxidants like vitamins C and E, as well as beta-carotene, a derivative of vitamin A, that protect skin from environmental stressors and free radicals that damage and age the skin. This powerful threesome also works to stimulate collagen, brighten, moisturize, firm, and smooth wrinkles.

RELATED: The Most Powerful Antioxidants For Your Skin

It keeps skin hydrated.

In addition to nourishing vitamin E, pumpkin extract is a great source of fatty acids that provide lightweight hydration and improve the skin’s barrier function, thus preventing moisture loss.

It’s good for acne-prone skin.

Another nutrient that pumpkin extract can offer is zinc. If you’ve heard of someone taking zinc supplement for acne, it’s because the mineral has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm and minimize the appearance of breakouts. The same benefit can be had from topical application. There is evidence that the mineral can help reduce sebum production, as well.

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It promotes healthy hair.

Pumpkin seed oil is used in hair products for many of the reasons mentioned above. The ingredient’s fatty acid, antioxidant, and protein content can help strengthen strands, smooth frizz, and repair and prevent damage for a non-greasy, lustrous look.

You can find pumpkin seed oil in the British M Organics Annatto Hair Oil, which won a 2017 Soko Glam Best of K-Beauty Award for its ability to make hair softer and shinier, without weighing it down.

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