As evidenced by Starbucks’ decision to introduce its pumpkin-spice latte early this year, it’s obvious that people can hardly wait for pumpkin season to begin. We couldn’t either, so we decided to start prepping for one of our other favorite uses for the fall berry (it’s a berry, we’re serious): the pumpkin facial. We talked to Ali Starbuck—no relation—lead aesthetician at Chicago’s Ruby Room, about why you should add pumpkin spa treatments to your fall checklist. She assured us that yummy smell is good for more than just our noses with six excellent reasons to try one ourselves. 1. They’re the perfect follow-up to all that sunbathing. “Pumpkin infuses the skin with antioxidants, like vitamin A and beta carotene, to fight free-radical damage,” Ali said. “[It] also deeply exfoliates, resurfaces, and helps [repair] photodamaged skin.” 2. They have both short-term and long-term effects. “When pumpkin is in an enzyme form, it can be stimulated with heat and moisture to create a deep exfoliation,” she explained. “This exfoliation process dissolves the dead skin cells, sloughing off unwanted keratin buildup on the skin’s surface. The turnover of these skin cells resurfaces the follicles, stimulates collagen production, and strengthens the skin.” 3. They smell good, which is good for you. Though pumpkin alone can work wonders, its spicy scent has benefits, too. “In my opinion, aromatherapy … [can] help elevate a client’s mood, relieve stress, energize, and encourage better health,” Ali said. “I believe aromatherapy can also boost the immune, respiratory, and circulatory systems when used in the treatment room.” 4. They can be more potent than other seasonal facials. According to Ali, it’s hard to beat the potency of the pumpkin. It’s “a powerful fruit that is very effective, having over 100 known benefits when used topically. ... [It’s] very results-driven in the treatment room, as well as for home care. When compared to other seasonal ingredients, I would say it would be the leader with its effectiveness and ability to transform skin.” 5. They can be done at home or at the spa. Speaking of home care, budget-conscious alternatives to spa treatments include this DIY pumpkin mask from the blog Primally Inspired. Given the strength of some pumpkin enzymes, though, Ali recommends leaving it to the professionals. At Ruby Room, she uses Arcona’s line of cosmeceutical products, which includes a pumpkin-enzyme peel for facials and a take-home pumpkin body lotion ($35) that “helps to improve tonal quality and elasticity.” 6. Unlike actual pumpkins, you can get them anytime. “Don’t be afraid to use pumpkin year-round! Getting regular pumpkin peels results in real change for skin,” Ali said, noting they can create a “glowing, younger-looking” complexion over time. Photo by Andrew Nawrocki, Groupon Check Groupon for deals on facials or spas. Become an expert on some more spa-related topics: