is camphor good for skin - #38676
I am really curious about this whole camphor thing. A couple of weeks ago, my skin started breaking out like crazy—pimples everywhere! Ugh, super frustrating, right? I’ve been using all those over-the-counter creams and they kinda helped but not enough. Then I remembered something my grandma used to say about camphor, you know, like how she would mention how is camphor good for skin? I did some reading and saw it's used in some Ayurvedic stuff too, which is interesting. I even tried a DIY face pack with camphor, but honestly, I’m kinda freaked out because my skin is sensitive and I’m not sure if I should keep using it. Like, can it actually help clear up my skin or do more harm than good? I mean, is camphor good for skin in terms of acne treatment? I heard it’s supposed to calm inflamed skin or something, but I worry if it might be too strong. Anyone had experience with using camphor for skincare? Does it really work? Would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks a lot!
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Doctors' responses
Camphor, renowned for it’s anti-inflammatory properties, has indeed been used in Ayurvedic practices for various skin troubles, including acne. In your case, given the sensitivity of your skin, it’s essential to exercise caution. Camphor can help in reducing the inflammation and redness often accompany acne, but its potency also means it can irritate sensitive skin if not used right.
Firstly, if you are considering continuing with a camphor-based treatment, I would recommend performing a patch test. Apply a small amount behind your ear or on your wrist and leave it for 24 hours. If there’s no irritation or adverse reaction, it’s probably safe to use. However, ensure you’re using camphor in diluted form; pure camphor is very strong and can be harsh on the skin.
In Ayurveda, a common preparation involves mixing a small pinch of camphor, either in powdered form or crushed tablet, with a carrier oil like coconut oil, known for its soothing and moisturizing properties. I suggests starting with a ratio of about 1 part camphor to 10 parts oil for initial applications. Apply this mixture over the affected areas and leave it on for no longer than 20 minutes before washing it off. Don’t overdo it, twice a week is a good place to start.
Check if the other practices you follow align with your skin type and dosha. Stress reduction through pranayama or meditation can help balance your doshas — acne can sometimes be exacerbated by internal imbalance. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated are fundamentals for pitta-related skin conditions like acne.
Should any severe irritation happen, discontinue use immediately. If the outbreaks continue or worsen, consulting a dermatolagist would be wise. Camphor can be a helpful aid in your regimen, but it should only be part of a broader strategy and used with care on sensitive skin.

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