Can Using Gram Flour for Skin Lightening Really Make a Difference? - #22308
I am struggling with my skin lately, and I've been hearing so much about gram flour for skin lightening. I mean, I've tried sooo many products and nothing works. I read somewhere that gram flour can help lighten dark spots and make your skin look more radiant?! I honestly thought it was kind of a myth, but then I saw all these DIY videos on social media, and y'know, I was tempted to try it. I have some acne scars and uneven skin tone that just won't budge, and it's really frustrating. Have been scrubbing my face with all sorts of things and still feel like I’m just wasting my time. So, I’m thinking maybe gram flour is the answer? I've seen it mixed with turmeric or yogurt, but I don't really know what’s best! I used it once, but it felt a bit dry. Is it normal? Do I add a moisturizer after? I just wanna know, what’s the deal with using gram flour for skin lightening? Anyone had success with it? Or should I just stick with the expensive stuff? Really looking for insight because I’m feeling kinda lost here!!
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Doctors’ responses
Gram flour, known as ‘besan’ in India, can indeed be a beneficial ingredient for skin care, particularly when it comes to lightening and brightening the complexion. In Ayurveda, gram flour possesses natural cleansing properties that help remove dead skin cells and impurities from the skin’s surface. It’s particularly known for balancing the ‘Pitta’ and ‘Kapha’ doshas, which when imbalanced, can contribute to various skin issues including hyperpigmentation and acne scars.
For your acne scars and uneven tone, creating a face pack with gram flour could be a good start. Mix it with turmeric, a well-known ingredient with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, and yogurt, which contains lactic acid to gently exfoliate and hydrate the skin. A simple recipe: take 2 tablespoons of gram flour, a pinch of turmeric, and enough yogurt to make a paste. Apply it to your face, avoiding sensitive areas like around the eyes, and leave it on for about 15-20 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water. Use this pack 2-3 times a week for noticeable results.
If you found gram flour drying, you can absolutely apply a moisturizer afterward to keep your skin hydrated. Since you’ve been having issues with dryness, adding a few drops of honey to the mix might help, as honey is a natural humectant that locks in moisture.
When it comes to synthetic skincare products, they often have harsh chemicals that might be causing your skin to react unfavorably. Sticking to natural options like gram flour might not only be more gentle but also less expensive!
Consistency and patience are key! Natural ingredients can take a while to show results, so give it some time. If dryness persists or you notice irritation, stop using it and consider consulting an Ayurveda practitioner for personalized advice on balancing your doshas. As always, if you have persistent or severe skin issues, seeing a dermatologist might also be beneficial to ensure there isn’t an underlying issue needing attention.

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