Chandana powder, or sandalwood powder, is a wonderful natural remedy known in Ayurveda for its cooling and soothing effects, especially on sensitive or inflamed skin. It’s true what you’ve heard! This, you’ll find, is traditionaly revered for balancing Pitta dosha, which, as you correctly guessed, relates to that overheated, red irritation you experience. Let’s untangle your queries one by one!
For your summer redness and sensitivity: Chandana powder can be very effective. It’s cooling and anti-inflammatory, so mixing it with rose water can be a great choice for sensitive skin. Rose water adds even more calming benefits and tonifies the skin. For your mixed skin type—dry areas and oily T-zone—combining chandana powder with milk is a solid idea. Milk adds a bit of moisture and can ease up dryness without adding oiliness, making it a good balance. Try applying it as a thin layer mask for about 20 minutes and rinse with cool water. See how your skin responds and adjust the frequency. Even twice a week could work well!
Chandana does help with Pitta imbalances, especially when you feel warm and flushed. You can use it as a mask or even sprinkle some sandalwood powder in bath water as a cooling option. It’s more a temporary fix, though regular use can provide cumulative benefits and keep Pitta in check over time.
A word on quality: Genuine chandana should have a fine texture and a subtle, woody aroma—stay cautious of suspiciously low prices as they might indicate diluted products. Unfortunately, the market is flooded with fakes, so where possible, buy from a trusted, preferably organic brand, ideally in person if practical.
Besides skincare, its gentle scent is traditionally used in spiritual practices. You can use sandalwood powder incense or oil to create a serene atmosphere. Internal use is tricky—while sandalwood has been used for cooling the body, it’s generally used under very specific conditions, often coupled with other herbs under the guidance of an Ayurvedic physician. It’s essential to be cautious here due to potency and potential impurities.
Before using any product on your face, especially if it’s new: always patch-test to check for allergies. Avoid the eye area!
Chandana is truly versatile, and with a little care, you can enjoy its many benefits. Just take it slow and see how your skin responds—you’ll soon find the right balance!


