Used for over 2,000 years in Burmese culture, Thanaka may just be the best kept beauty secret from the Southeast Asian country of Myanmar. It is a key component of several types of beauty creams and face masks that benefit your skin in different ways. The basic paste is made by grinding the bark or roots of the Limonia acidissima tree which grows in the central most region of the country. Once pulverized into a powder, it is mixed with water form a creamy, yellowish paste that is applied to the skin.
Interestingly enough, there are a variety of ingredients that can be added to this mixture in order to create a range of face masks that benefit the skin in different ways. Consider trying any or all of the following for single applications and improved skin health:
Traditional Face Mask
The basic face mask is made by mixing equal parts of Thanaka powder and water (usually 1 to 2 teaspoons of each) until a creamy paste result. Clean your face and then apply the paste evenly over it. It will be dried within 5 to 10 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove it with lukewarm water. For smoother, softer skin, we recommend applying it 1 or 2 times weekly.
Brightening, Smoothing, and Softening Face Mask
To naturally brighten, smooth out, and soften facial skin, mix 2 teaspoons of Thanaka powder with 2 tablespoons of avocado or coconut oil, 1/4 teaspoon honey, and 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder. Apply the mixture evenly with a fan brush and leave on for 20 minutes. You can use a face towel to wash it off provided you don’t mind that it will be permanently stained by the compound. However, it does give your skin a softer and cleaner feel.
Gentle Exfoliating Face Mask
For a face mask that gently exfoliates the skin, mix the Thanaka powder with honey and milk. Apply the paste in a circular pattern by gently massaging it onto your face. Let the paste sit for 5 minutes, then rinse it off with lukewarm water. You will find that the skin is smoother and softer.
Nourishing and Rehydrating Face Mask
Mix 2 teaspoons of Thanaka powder with 1 teaspoon honey, 4 tablespoons milk, and 25 grams ground walnuts to form a creamy paste. Apply this evenly over the face and leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes before washing it off with lukewarm water.
In addition to the above, Thanaka face masks also help to diminish the size of facial pores, reduce skin impurities, and leave the skin soft to the touch. To learn more about Thanaka and its many benefits visit the Healing Bark website today.