Secret ingredient

Pumpkin Peel Facial at Fringe - Cranberry Citrus Body Souffle at the Peninsula Spa

Pumpkin
Even if you’re not a fan of pumpkin pie, this fall-harvest veggie has some sweet benefits. It’s rich in alpha- and beta-carotene,giving it antiaging and detoxifying powers. And because pumpkins are 90 percent water, they’re super hydrating. Illinois produces more than any other state, so it’s no wonder there are treatments aplenty.

Pumpkin Peel Facial at Fringe1437 N Milwaukee Ave (773-862-1000, www.fringechicago.com). $90 for 90 minutes. Through Nov 30.
The menu here usually offers just one classic 60-minute facial, so this seasonal treatment is worth booking some extra time. After cleansing the skin, our aesthetician applied the exfoliating whipped pumpkin–and–green tea peel that left us tingly, and thirsting for the hydrating and antioxidant masks that followed. Hand, foot and shoulder massages are worked in while the masks set.

Pumpkin Spice Manicure and Pedicure at Four Seasons120 E Delaware Pl (312-649-2340). Manicure $55, pedicure $75. Through Nov 30.
Don’t be alarmed by the rust-colored water in which you’ll dip your feet to begin your pedicure. Its spicy fall aroma sets the mood, along with complimentary spiced tea and pumpkin-spice biscotti. The pumpkin’s huge water content shines here; your hands and feet feel naturally hydrated and soft when done.

Pumpkin Spice Aromatherapy Massage, and Pumpkin and Yam Enzyme Facial, both at Spa Martinique530 E Golf Rd, Schaumburg (847-843-9901, www.spamartinique.com). Aromatherapy: add $10 to any massage; facial: $95. Through Nov 30.
Driving to the ’burbs is reason enough to get pampered, and this strip-mall spa is deceptively luxe. A pleasant pumpkin scent wafted throughout our deep-tissue massage, but the expert 60-minute facial is worth the drive alone. Éminence products are used throughout, including the namesake peel, and the therapist works in a Hungarian face massage, too.

Cranberry and apple
Don’t let their cheerful colors fool you: These fruits pack a powerful punch. Active antioxidants help soothe and protect against environmental toxins, revitalizing your skin while making it ultra clean, clear and supple. Native Americans extolled their antibacterial and antiseptic properties and spas are taking heed.

Cranberry Citrus Body Souffle at the Peninsula Spa108 E Superior St (312-573-6860). $150 for 60 minutes. Through Dec 31.
First, we took a few minutes to lounge on one of the cushy duvet beds in front of the fireplace in the waiting area. The newly remodeled spa uses luxurious, cranberry-infused June Jacobs products. The therapist applies a gentle lemon exfoliant, then layers on a cranberry-cleanser, mask and moisturizer. Don’t expect any muscle kneading; do expect your skin to feel its softest ever, from head to toe.

Cranberry and Pomegranate Body Massage at Honey Child Salon & Spa735 N LaSalle St (312-573-1300, www.spasalon.com/honeychild). $110 for 60 minutes. Through Dec 31.
We felt like princesses from the moment a cheerful receptionist welcomed us into this relaxing, warm spa. It only got better in an amazing deep-tissue massage: A rich blend of cranberry-and-pomegranate whipped shea butter hydrates the body without making it greasy.

Cran-Apple Manicure and Pedicure at Spa Space161 N Canal St (312-466-9585, www.spaspace.com). $69 for both. Through Dec 31.
It’s easy to get cozy in this West Loop spot. Sip a warm mug of homemade apple cider while dipping your peds or paws into warm, effervescent, vanilla-water. Hands are painted with a spiced apple mask (it sets for five minutes) and draped with hot towels to open pores then cranberry lotion is rubbed in to lock in moisture. All that hydration is the perfect anecdote to dry, wind-chapped skin. And we’re happy to report that the filing and polishing—which are standard in all hand and foot treatments—are top-notch.