An Ancient Secret for Glowing Skin

An ancient beauty secret or “nuschka” is revealed in this all-natural recipe for glowing skin.

Before there were make-up artists, spas, or beauty parlors, women in India came up with home made beauty recipes to exfoliate, soften and brighten their face and body, especially for special occasions such as marriage. These all- natural recipes enhanced their natural beauty and improved their skin tone instantly. These beauty secrets are becoming more sought after as women around the world are straying from using harsh and artificial chemicals on their skin. This recipe is gentle enough to use on a daily basis and will result in a beautiful and vibrant glow.

Chick pea flour (besan) is a soft yellow coloured powder available at most Indian grocery stores. Mixed most commonly with milk, water, yogurt or almond oil it helps to hydrate, soften, and cleanse the skin within a few minutes.

For clean and vibrant skin with an instant glow, follow this simple recipe:

•Take 3 tbsp. of besan in a bowl

•Add ½ tbsp. of turmeric powder (haldi)

*Turmeric acts as an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and instant skin cleanser. It can leave a yellowish tinge on your skin so use just a little bit for this recipe.

• Now mix the two powders. You can choose between water, milk, plain yogurt, rose water or almond oil. Use an adequate amount of any one of these to make a thick paste. Choose one ingredient for the desired effect:
-Water- hydrates the skin
-Milk or plain yogurt- softens and gives the skin a vibrant glow
-Almond oil- nourishes dry skin, but can leave an oily residue so use just a small amount

• Mix the contents well to form a paste thick enough to apply it on your face without it falling off. If the mixture becomes too thin, add more besan to make it more consistent.

• The mixture can be applied on the face, neck or all over the body. Let it dry for approximately 20 minutes then wash it off with luke warm water.

* A few women may be allergic to besan or other ingredients in the mixture. Just to be on the safe side, apply a small amount on the skin and check for any allergies once it dries. Allergic reactions, however, are not very common with this ancient “nuschka”.

Don’t forget to relax, light a candle, and listen to some comforting music. We suggest “Dakini” by Prem Joshua or something similar for an Indian style spa- like experience!

Natural Recipes for Facials

Our busy lifestyle makes it easy for us to grab a product right off the drug store shelf which may be convenient but its usually packed full of ingredients we cannot even pronounce!  There is no need for us to be using chemicals on our skin when we have so many natural options that can simply be found in our own kitchen.  To get gorgeous and glowing skin inspired by India, a country famous for its natural beauty tips, try any of these recipes twice a week for best results.

1. Mix together 1 1/2 teaspoons of honey, 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt (greek-style is best), and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Apply this mixture to your face and let it soak in for 15 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water. If you have oily skin, add a little more lemon juice, which acts as an astringent and clarifier.

2. To combat blackheads, mix together equal parts of baking soda with water in your hand until it forms a paste. Apply and scrub in a circular motion for 2 minutes, then rinse. This is a great way to clean out your pores without using harsh exfoliants that can tear your skin if used incorrectly.

3. Take an egg and separate the egg white from the yolk. Mix the yolk and apply to your face. If desired, add honey to the yolk, or use it on its own. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. The egg yolk acts as an antioxidant which will leave your face soft and glowing. The egg white can also be used in the same way on its own and will help tighten and refresh your skin.

4. Combine about 2 tablespoons of oatmeal with water and mix it to form a paste. Honey can be added to produce a nice consistency and help the mask stick on your face. Apply and relax for 15 minutes then rinse with warm water. Oatmeal is good for oily skin because it absorbs any excess oil and also acts as a natural exfoliant.

Light a candle, turn on your favourite music and pamper yourself. Let it be your way of relaxing after a long and stressful day. Do you have any natural beauty secrets or recipes that you’d like to share?