Timeless Beauty Rituals From Around The World

Across the globe, diverse cultures harness the power of natural ingredients to create skincare regimens that nourish and protect the skin. These time-honored practices highlight the efficacy of nature-derived solutions while offering valuable insights into holistic beauty approaches. By exploring these traditions, we can incorporate their benefits into our own skincare routines.​

Japan: Camellia Oil for Moisture & Radiance

In Japan, camellia oil, known as tsubaki, has been a cherished beauty secret for centuries. Extracted from the seeds of the Camellia japonica flower, this lightweight oil is renowned for its deep moisturizing properties and ability to enhance skin elasticity. Japanese women have traditionally applied camellia oil to their faces to maintain a smooth, youthful complexion and to their hair for added shine and strength. Rich in oleic acid and antioxidants, camellia oil penetrates deeply into the skin, providing nourishment without leaving a greasy residue. To incorporate this into your routine, consider using 100% pure Japanese camellia oil as a facial moisturizer or hair treatment. 

India: Turmeric for Skin Healing & Brightening

Turmeric, a golden-yellow spice integral to Indian culture, has been celebrated for its medicinal and cosmetic benefits. In traditional Ayurvedic practices, turmeric is used to create ubtan, a paste combining turmeric with ingredients like chickpea flour, yogurt, and honey. This mixture is applied to the skin to exfoliate, brighten, and promote an even skin tone. 

The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it effective in reducing acne and soothing various skin conditions. To experience these benefits, you can prepare a simple turmeric face mask at home by mixing turmeric powder with yogurt or honey, applying it to the skin, and leaving it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing. 

Myanmar: Thanaka for Skin Purity

In Myanmar, thanaka—a yellowish-white cosmetic paste made from ground bark—is a staple in daily skincare routines. Applied to the face in decorative patterns, thanaka serves multiple purposes: it acts as a natural sunscreen, protects against acne, and provides a cooling sensation. Rich in antioxidants, thanaka helps to tighten pores and control oil production. To use thanaka, mix the powder with water to form a paste and apply it to the skin, allowing it to dry before rinsing or leaving it on as a protective mask.

Morocco: Argan Oil for Nourishment and Protection

Argan oil, often referred to as “liquid gold,” is extracted from the kernels of the argan tree native to Morocco. Rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants, argan oil has been traditionally used by Moroccan women to moisturize and protect their skin and hair from the arid climate. Its hydrating properties make it effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and improving skin elasticity. For hair, argan oil can tame frizz, add shine, and promote overall scalp health. To incorporate argan oil into your regimen, apply a few drops to your face as a nighttime moisturizer or work it through damp hair to nourish and protect strands. ​SELFThe Ordinary

Madagascar: Masonjoany For Sun Protection

In Madagascar, women of the Sakalava and Vezo communities use masonjoany, a paste made from ground wood, as a natural sunscreen and skin purifier. Applied to the face, it offers protection from the sun’s harsh rays and is believed to have cleansing and anti-aging properties. To incorporate masonjoany into your skincare, source authentic masonjoany powder, mix it with water to create a paste, and apply it to the face as a mask, allowing it to dry before rinsing off.

Incorporating Global Traditions Into Your Skincare Routine

Embracing these natural beauty secrets allows us to connect with diverse cultural practices and benefit from the earth’s bounty. When integrating these ingredients into your skincare routine, consider the following tips:​

1. Patch Test First: Before fully incorporating a new natural ingredient, apply a small amount to a discreet area to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction.​
   
2. Source Quality Products: Opt for high-quality, pure forms of these ingredients to maximize their benefits. Look for products with minimal additives and organic certifications when possible.​
   
3. Understand Your Skin Type: While natural, some ingredients may be better suited to certain skin types. For instance, oils like camellia and argan are excellent for dry skin, whereas turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties can benefit acne-prone skin.​
   

By thoughtfully incorporating these time-honored practices into our routines, we not only enhance our skincare regimens but also pay homage to the rich traditions that have celebrated natural beauty for centuries.