Saffron: Tips to make the most of ‘kesar’ for your hair and skin
The regal red spice, with its rich aroma and colour, often found in Biryanis or lip-smacking desserts, can also do wonders for your hair and skin. From healing inflammation to purifying the scalp, there is little that saffron cannot do. As more and more people recognize the need for using clean and natural beauty products, here are some lesser-known benefits of saffron and ways to use it for long and shiny tresses and radiant skin.
Health Shots got in touch with skincare expert Natasha Tuli, who listed several interesting benefits of saffron in your beauty regime.
Here are some benefits of saffron for hair and skin:
1. A powerful antioxidant
Tuli says, “Saffron is chock-full of antioxidants, including vitamin C, and has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. With its amazing anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities, saffron is an ideal ingredient for treating acne and breakouts. It holds medicinal properties which can help in clearing up acne-prone skin. If you’ve dull skin, mix a strand or two of saffron in aloe vera gel and rub it in to get an instant glow.
2. Prevents hair loss
The benefits of saffron extends to hair care too. It has long been a popular ingredient in Ayurvedic hair oils. Saffron’s antioxidants mend follicles to generate hair growth. Saffron oil applied to the roots of the hair can promote new hair growth and offer you long, shiny and healthy tresses.
3. Treats acne
According to Tuli, who is also the CEO and chief formulator at Soulflower, saffron’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help even out skin tone and promote healthy-looking skin. It is the go-to ingredient for battling acne-causing bacteria, soothing active pores and reducing redness and soreness. Mix 2 strands of saffron in kaolin clay and add a spoonful of rose water to make a creamy paste. Apply it on your skin to get rid of breakouts.
4. Reduces pigmentation and heals scars
Saffron is a natural ingredient that can help to reduce pigmentation, brown spots, and other skin blemishes. It also contains healing properties that might help the skin recover faster.
“Saffron has flavonoid components such as kaempferol and quercetin, which aid in wound healing and scar lightening. Saffron’s other phenolic components that make it photoprotective are also utilized in many sunscreens and skin creams,” adds Tuli.
Nature is a treasure trove of remedies that helps us with quick fixes to our woes. While on the other hand, chemically infused products can harm the natural texture of skin and hair, as well as take away their natural glow. With a lot of pollution and dust harming our skin and hair, it is essential to reap these benefits of saffron for your skin and hair.