The skin benefits of sandalwood are truly mesmerizing. Sandalwood, known for its unique aromatic fragrance, comes from the heartwood of trees in the Santalaceae family and Santalum genus. The most well-known types are East Indian sandalwood (Santalum album) and Australian sandalwood (S. spicatum). These woods are not just fragrant but also hold significant value in various cultures.
Regarded as a sacred ingredient in Ayurveda, sandalwood or Chandan, plays a crucial role in religious rituals. Its use dates back to ancient times, revered in Indian traditions and filling the halls of Hindu temples and Buddhist monasteries with its musty fragrance. This historical herb is celebrated for its spiritual significance.
More than its cultural importance, the skin benefits of sandalwood boast its anti-microbial and nourishing qualities. It is an effective remedy for skin issues like acne, rashes, ulcers, sunburn, and dryness, associated with Pitta and Vata imbalances.
This ancient ingredient, still prevalent in modern beauty products, especially Ayurvedic ones, leads the pathway to brighter, clearer and more radiant skin.
7 Skin Benefits of Sandalwood
1) Alleviates Psoriasis symptoms
Sandalwood has shown potential in alleviating psoriasis symptoms, including itchy and scaly patches. Its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce the severity of these symptoms. However, it's advised to consult a doctor before using sandalwood for this purpose.
2) Anti-aging properties
Traditionally used for its anti-aging effects, sandalwood can diminish wrinkles, scars and skin darkening. This is attributed to its toning, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions, which contribute to a more youthful skin appearance.
3) Helps in wound healing
The anti-microbial (anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral) and anti-inflammatory actions of sandalwood may aid in wound healing. While promising, this benefit requires further research to fully validate its effectiveness.
4) Eczema Relief
Sandalwood oil, with its anti-inflammatory properties, helps manage eczema symptoms like dry, scaly and itchy skin. It's important to consult a dermatologist before using sandalwood for this condition.
6) Acne Treatment
Treating acne is one of the most important skin benefits of sandalwood. Its usefulness in treating acne stems from its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Although promising, it's essential to seek advice from a dermatologist before applying sandalwood for acne treatment.
7) De-tanning Effects
The skin benefits of sandalwood include de-tanning. Sandalwood can help mitigate the effects of suntan. Applying its oil or paste can gradually remove suntan and alleviate redness and burning caused by sun exposure.
How does sandalwood oil work?
Sandalwood oil, with its antiseptic properties, can prevent bacterial growth on the skin. This makes it effective in treating acne and pimples. One can apply a few drops of sandalwood oil to the affected areas. Those with oily skin should rinse it off after a few minutes, while it can be left on normal skin.
Furthermore, sandalwood's antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties are beneficial for skin health. They help in reducing pore size and tightening the skin, which prevents early signs of aging.
Regular application of sandalwood oil on the skin, followed by an overnight treatment and morning wash with lukewarm water, can moisturize the skin, leaving it smooth and youthful.
The skin benefits of sandalwood are remarkable, ranging from treating skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema to providing anti-aging benefits. While its efficacy is backed by traditional use, scientific research is ongoing to fully understand its potential.
Whatever skin type you may have, it is important to do a patch test before proceeding with face masks made with sandalwood. If there is any skin irritation, you should discontinue the usage.
FAQs
1) How does Sandalwood benefit the skin?
The skin benefits of sandalwood include treating psoriasis, reducing aging signs, aiding in wound healing, providing eczema relief, treating acne, and mitigating suntan effects.
2) Can Sandalwood treat acne?
Yes, its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties make it effective against acne, but it's best to consult a dermatologist before use.
3) Is Sandalwood good for anti-aging?
Yes, sandalwood has toning, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce wrinkles and skin darkening.