Many people want to be as comfortable in their skin as possible. After all, the skin is the largest organ in the body, and it also needs much protection because it's constantly exposed. Because of this, they go the extra mile to ensure their skin looks perfect.
Skincare routines tend to be intricate because some people are prone to various skin problems. Some of the most common include acne, uneven skin tone, fine lines, and the like. However, one particular skincare product is known as Thanaka, which comes from Myanmar. It's touted as both a beauty product and a medicinal one, so many people use it.
If you're thinking of using Thanaka products, it's worth knowing more about Thanaka itself, so we'll discuss it in this article.
The Origins of Thanaka
It's believed that Thanaka has been around since Myanmar became known as the country it is today. It's also thought that the Queen of Beikthano, one of Myanmar’s oldest cities, loved Thanaka so much that she used it on her skin every day.
Later on, evidence of Thanaka use was found when the Burmese king, Bagyidaw, ordered the construction of the Shwedagon Pagoda. He used Thanaka as the main ingredient for the bricks used to build the pagoda. Whether this is true or not, it's clear that Thanaka has been around for at least a century.
How Is Thanaka Prepared?
Myanmar is home to dry soils, yet these are healthy enough for Thanaka trees to grow. Depending on the soil's fertility, Thanaka trees can grow up to 7 to 9 meters.
Harvesting Thanaka itself can take up to 35 years for slower-growing trees because it's the minimum time required before they can be considered good enough to be cut down. The smaller logs are sold in local markets, while bigger logs are brought to manufacturing facilities for processing.
Thanaka logs are prepared by being rubbed and ground on the kyauk pyin, a large, heavy grinding stone placed on a cement surface. This step is necessary because Thanaka resin can be very stiff, making it difficult to grind.
The Benefits of Thanaka
If you include Thanaka in your skincare routine, you'll reap the following benefits:
Heals Acne
Acne is not only unsightly, but it can be painful and itchy, too. It may also leave scars that you can’t get rid of quickly. If you use Thanaka regularly, you can keep your skin clear and blemish-free, so it's often considered a natural acne remedy.
Protection from UV Rays
UV rays can damage the skin, so sunscreen is essential. However, spraying sunscreens tend to be cumbersome. If you use Thanaka, you can have a natural sunscreen that's easy to apply to the skin.
Boosts Collagen and Elastin Production
Collagen and elastin are vital to having supple, youthful-looking skin. Collagen helps your skin stay firm, while elastin is responsible for helping your skin stay taut. Using a Thanaka product can help enhance collagen and elastin production because of its richness in vitamins, minerals, and plant acids.
Fights Free Radicals
Free radicals cause skin damage, so it's crucial to protect skin from them. Using Thanaka will help protect skin from free radicals because it contains carotenoids, which are antioxidants. Beyond that, it also has Vitamin E, which helps protect against pollution.
Contains Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The skin is the gateway to the body, which means it's very prone to inflammation. If your skin is inflamed, it can lead to several problems, from itchy skin to skin rashes. Thanaka can help alleviate inflamed skin because it contains active ingredients, such as allantoin.
Slows Down Signs of Aging
While Thanaka can't stop aging, it can slow it down. This is primarily because of the antioxidants it contains. These help decrease oxidative stress on the skin, one of the primary causes of aging.
Conclusion
Thanaka is a fascinating product that has managed to remain relevant for years. It's not only a beauty product, but it's also a medicinal one that can help soothe your skin. If you're thinking of using Thanaka products as part of your skincare routine, you'd be wise because you'll only get benefits.
If you’re looking for a Thanaka powder mask, Healing Bark has what you need! Our products are made with 100% natural products, and we also offer other selections such as extract serums and mixing kits for affordable prices. Simply go to our website and take your pick!