To use chandan (sandalwood) powder for facial care, it’s important to consider your skin’s current condition and its dosha imbalances. Chandan powder is indeed effective for cooling and soothing irritated skin, helping with blemishes, and imparting brightness. Its cooling and calming nature makes it particularly useful for reducing pitta-based skin issues like inflammation, redness and occasionally acne.
When preparing a chandan powder face mask, start with a simple base. Mix 1-2 teaspoons of chandan powder with just enough pure rose water or plain water to create a smooth paste. Rose water is particularly effective here because it is both cooling and helps balance the skin’s pH. Apply this paste evenly on your face, avoiding the eye area, and leave it for about 15-20 minutes. Then, rinse it off with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry. This can be done about 2-3 times a week. Daily might be too frequent, as overuse can dry out the skin or lead to irritation in sensitive types.
For additional moisturizing or enhanced benefits, you can customize by adding honey or yogurt. Mix 1 teaspoon of honey or yogurt with the chandan paste. Honey adds moisture and has natural antibacterial properties, suitable for kapha-vata skin types that suffer from dryness and occasional outbreaks. Yogurt, with its gentle exfoliating lactic acid, can be beneficial for oily or combination skin types to reduce excess oil and brighten dull spots.
Keep in mind the proportion; keep your additional ingredients like honey or yogurt at moderate levels compared to the chandan powder to avoid too thick a paste that may be hard to apply or remove.
After your recent experience with a store-bought mask, applying a small amount of your DIY chandan mask on a small patch of skin on your arm before trying it on your face is ideal to ensure no adverse reactions. If you notice any irritation, discontinue and consider speaking with a dermatologist or an Ayurvedic practitioner.
Regularly check your overall routine for balance. Ensure you’re hydrating well, getting adequate nutrition, and addressing any underlying stressors that might cause skin irritation or dullness.
