More Acne Skin Care Products

One of the more cutting-edge, yet surprisingly old-fashioned, approaches to exfoliation can be found in a simple fruit-the one you buy for Halloween. Pumpkin has found its way into many skin-care products, including acne treatments.

"Pumpkin is an ingredient that made its introduction into the skin-care market within the last five years," says Faith Frankenfield, whose company offers a Pumpkin Exfoliating Masque (right) for blemish-prone skin.

Powerful Enzymes

Patrick McRae, an expert at San Francisco, California-based Zia Natural Skincare, explains how it works: "Pumpkin is very popular as an exfoliant for two reasons," he says. "First, pumpkin contains quick-acting enzymes that dissolve old skin cells. Unlike facial scrubs, which can be rough and irritate healthy skin while removing old cells, these enzymes target only the dead cells so skin is left smooth, without damage to healthy living cells. Secondly, pumpkin is rich in vitamins and other nutrients that help maintain skin health. Beta-carotene and vitamins C and E help protect skin from environmental damage that can lead to premature aging, while amino acids help prevent moisture loss and irritation."