Glowing skin is on everyone's wish-list. After all, it is a sign of good health. So, I started eating more green vegetables and colourful fruits instead of ultra-processed foods. Apart from consuming healthy foods, I also started sleeping well. But when it came to my skincare routine, I found myself stuck. I was not sure about the products that could help me get glowing skin. My mom told me to go green, and try something as simple as a combination of honey and Triphala, which is a herbal concoction consisting of three fruits. These two natural ingredients are known for their benefits for skin. So, I used the Triphala and honey face mask for glowing skin, and I was pleased with the result.

Triphala for skin

Triphala is a popular Ayurvedic mixture made from three fruits -- Indian gooseberry or Amalaki, Terminalia bellirica or Bibhitaki, and Haritaki or Terminalia chebula. Together, they create a powerhouse of antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory agents, which have been celebrated for centuries for their health benefits, says veteran beauty expert Dr Blossom Kochhar.

Triphala has antioxidant property, radical-scavenging ability, and may help build proteins such as collagen and elastin, while also providing hydration to skin, as per a research published in Plos One in 2016. Here are some benefits:

• It is full of antioxidants that fight free radicals, which are the pesky molecules that cause premature ageing and skin damage.
• Triphala has anti-inflammatory properties which could calm irritated skin, making it a great home remedy for acne, says the expert.
• It’s a detoxifier too, assisting to flush out pollutants and leaves your pores and skin looking clear and radiant.
• It promotes the regeneration of skin cells, aiding in repair and rejuvenation.
• It has the ability to keep skin hydrated and moisturised.

Triphala can be great for your skin. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Honey for skin

Honey is considered a gem in the world of skin care. It's a natural humectant, which means it draws moisture into the skin, keeping it hydrated and supple. Honey can help in improving the appearance of skin, and prevent infections on the skin that can lead to premature ageing, according to a 2013 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

Honey is rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and slow down ageing, says Dr Kochhar. It has soothing and healing properties which can calm irritated skin.

Triphala and honey face mask for glowing skin

Combining Triphala and honey can detoxify, hydrate, and brighten your skin, leaving you with a healthful, natural glow, says the expert. Making a Triphala and honey face mask is straightforward.

Ingredients

•  1 tablespoon of Triphala powder
• 1 tablespoon of uncooked honey
• Drops of rose water (optional)

Instructions

• In a small bowl, mix the Triphala powder and raw honey until you get a smooth paste.
• If you want, add a few drops of rose water for a greater fluid consistency.
• Apply the Triphala and honey paste on your face and neck, avoiding your eyes.
• Leave it on for 15 minutes, rinse it off with lukewarm water then pat your skin dry.

For best results, use this DIY face mask 1 or 2 times per week. The Triphala and honey face mask is mainly useful for people with dry or combination skin. If you have dry skin, the combination of honey and Triphala can help alleviate dryness and give glowing skin. For combination skin, this face mask can help balance oil production and at the same time, keep your skin hydrated.

Mix triphala with honey for glowing skin. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock.

There are several other natural ingredients which can be mixed with Triphala and honey to create face masks. Some of the ingredients are -

1. Yogurt

It contains lactic acid which acts as a natural exfoliant and removes dead skin cells, and provides additional moisture. It is suitable for all skin types, particularly dry and sensitive skin, says the expert.

2. Aloe vera

It soothes, heals and moisturises the skin, reduces inflammation and can calm irritated or sunburned skin. Aloe vera is great for people with sensitive and irritated skin.

3. Turmeric

It has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, so it can help reduce acne, scars and pigmentation while giving the skin a healthy glow. It can be used by people with acne-prone and combination skin.

4. Lemon juice

It is rich in vitamin C and has natural astringent properties due to which it can help brighten the skin, tighten pores and control oiliness. Lemon juice is suitable for oily and combination skin, says the expert.

What are the side effects of a Triphala and honey face mask?

If you have allergic reactions to these two substances, have sensitive skin, or open wounds or extreme acne, it’s better to avoid the Triphala and honey face mask, says the expert. People with oily skin or acne should avoid using this mask, as honey being a natural humectant attracts and retains moisture. So for those with oily skin, this can potentially increase oiliness if not properly removed, leading to an increased risk of clogged pores and breakouts. Triphala too is a potent detoxifier and might be too intense for sensitive, acne-prone skin, which can cause irritation and worsen acne if used excessively.

The Triphala and honey face mask is a herbal and powerful way to get glowing skin. But make sure not to use it too frequently.

Read Also: best neutrogena sunscreen: top 7 choices for sun protection