In this article, I will share with you 5 things that are hands-down the best when it comes to skin care. These are so effective that for most of these, you will be amazed by the results in just one use and over time their effect is unmatched.
It's just a bonus that they are easily available at an extremely low cost, but don't mistake them for cheap. We will keep this simple and practical. So without further delay, let's get started.
1. Multani Mitti – The Natural Face Wash
Multani mitti, also known as fuller’s earth, has been used as a natural face wash since ages due to its astringent properties. It effectively removes excess oil, dirt, and pollutants from the skin pores.
How to use Multani Mitti:
- Keep multani mitti powder in your bathroom.
- Whenever you wish to wash your face, take a spoon of it and mix water to form a paste.
- Apply it on your face just like any other face wash.
- Wash off with running tap water.
Instantly, you will feel your skin clean and fresh. At Rs 20 for 100 grams, multani mitti is 5 times cheaper than the cheapest face wash in the Indian market.
Some people question its cleaning ability due to the absence of foam, but multani mitti works like a mud bath, drawing impurities and exfoliating dead skin cells. Celebrities swear by its effectiveness, and many multani mitti-based face washes are now available.
However, a good face wash always repairs the skin and never damages it, which is why trusting the original multani mitti is best.
Multani mitti is naturally cooling, making it ideal for skin prone to sunburns, redness, and rashes. You will notice your skin getting tighter after use. It works best for oily, acne-prone skin but can be used on all skin types when used as a face wash.
Multani mitti is easily available at any grocery shop in powder or stone form. To get the cheapest price, buy it offline.
2. Phitkari (Alum) – Natural Deodorant and Aftershave
Phitkari or alum is a naturally occurring stone that is a blessing for your skin. It has many uses, but practically, one should start using phitkari for at least two things:
- As a deodorant
- As an aftershave
Modern deodorants often contain chemicals that block sweat glands or mask odor with artificial scents, which can cause darkening of underarms, skin rashes, headaches, and respiratory problems.
On the other hand, rubbing wet phitkari on your skin creates a layer of salt that stops bacteria from forming, preventing bad odors naturally.
Phitkari is very economical, costing around Rs 10 and lasting for years. You might have seen barbers rubbing alum stone on faces after shaving.
This is because alum acts as a natural coagulant, constricting blood vessels and tightening pores to stop bleeding and repair minor cuts.
Instead of spending Rs 500 on alcohol-based aftershaves that strip essential oils from your skin, use phitkari which actually increases skin glow.
Rub wet phitkari on your face for a minute and feel your skin tighten. Choose the natural and effective option.
Also Read: 5 Proven Ways to Smartly Burn that Stubborn Belly Fat
3. Almond Oil – The Natural Serum and Moisturizer
Almond oil contains three powerful ingredients that dermatologists often prescribe:
- Retinol: Almond oil is a natural source of retinol, which stimulates new skin cell production and smoothens fine lines.
- Vitamin E: It is the richest natural source of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that prevents cell damage and UV skin damage.
- Collagen Boosters: Almond oil contains zinc that increases collagen production, maintaining skin elasticity and preventing premature aging.
A study on 141 women concluded that pregnant women who regularly massage almond oil can reduce stretch marks by 20%. Having used it myself, I can say almond oil is one of the best natural moisturizers for your skin.
Every morning after bath, take a little almond oil on your palms, rub it well, and massage onto your face. It is lightweight and absorbs easily without leaving a greasy feeling.
Many shy away from using oil on the face due to misconceptions spread by the skin care industry. However, every cream and serum in the market is oil-based. Even oily skin types can use almond oil, just in small quantities.
Sweet almond oil is easily available at chemist shops and costs around Rs 200 for 100 ml, much cheaper than any face serum in the market. Your skin will thank you for this decision.
4. Neem Leaves – The Natural Blood Purifier
They say, “what’s going on the inside shows on the outside.” This is especially true for your skin. Skin problems like itching, acne, or pigmentation often stem from impure blood caused by an unhealthy lifestyle and polluted environment.
Neem leaves are a game changer because chewing 4-5 neem leaves acts as a natural blood purifier. The bitterness and astringent quality of neem help eliminate toxins in your blood, leading to clearer, glowing skin. Dark spots cannot stay, and pimples cannot pop out once your blood is pure.
Modern studies have proven neem’s effectiveness in treating acne. Many blood purifiers in the Indian market include neem as a key ingredient. With over 140 active compounds, neem is a powerful anti-inflammatory and detoxifying herb.
Ayurvedic texts regard neem as one of the most effective herbs for deep detoxification. Our ancestors planted neem trees throughout India, and you can easily find fresh leaves to chew near your residence.
If fresh neem leaves are unavailable, neem juice or powder are good alternatives. Even chewing neem leaves once a week can greatly improve your skin.
5. Besan (Gram Flour) – The Ultimate Face Mask, Scrubber, and Body Wash
Besan, or powdered chana dal, is a skin care ingredient that needs no introduction. It is like a one-stop destination for skin care, especially for detanning and restoring your original skin tone.
How to use Besan as a Face Pack:
- In a bowl, mix besan with a little turmeric and curd.
- Apply the mixture on your face, gently rubbing it all over.
- Turmeric masks the smell of besan and provides additional benefits.
- Curd acts as a moisturizer, making the mask suitable for all skin types.
- Keep it on for at least 10 minutes.
Instead of buying expensive sheet masks, use this affordable mask for better glow. Commercial face masks often contain more chemicals than real ingredients.
Besan is also a natural scrubber. When you scrub your face with it, it removes dead and damaged skin cells, allowing the skin to rejuvenate. This helps lighten dark patches and scars.
After scrubbing, wash off with running tap water. You may experience some redness, which is a sign that the mask is working. Using this mask once a week will keep your skin nourished.
For detanning, use the mask continuously for 4-5 days. Apply it in the morning, do your other tasks, and wash it off while bathing. This traditional ubtan can also be used as a body wash, removing dead skin cells while keeping essential oils intact. With regular use, you may hardly need a body lotion.
Summary Table: 5 Magical Skin Care Items
Item | Primary Use | Key Benefits | Approximate Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Multani Mitti | Natural Face Wash | Removes oil, dirt; tightens skin; cooling effect | Rs 20 per 100g |
Phitkari (Alum) | Deodorant & Aftershave | Prevents odor naturally; stops bleeding; tightens pores | Rs 10 per piece |
Almond Oil | Serum & Moisturizer | Retinol, Vitamin E, Collagen booster; reduces fine lines & stretch marks | Rs 200 per 100ml |
Neem Leaves | Blood Purifier | Detoxifies blood; improves acne and pigmentation | Free if plucked fresh; neem powder/juice varies |
Besan (Gram Flour) | Face Mask, Scrubber, Body Wash | Detans skin; exfoliates; nourishes skin | Rs 10 per 100g approx. |
Conclusion
If you see multani mitti as a natural face wash, phitkari as a deodorant and aftershave, almond oil as a serum and moisturizer, neem leaves as a blood purifier, and besan as a detan face mask, scrubber, and body wash, you have your complete skin care kit ready for just around Rs 250.
Our skin is like a second mouth—whatever you apply on it seeps through the pores into the bloodstream. So why not turn to natural products? They are easy to use, economical, and most importantly, effective.
Give these natural remedies a try and watch your skin glow like never before.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can multani mitti be used on all skin types?
A: Yes, when used as a face wash (not as a mask), multani mitti is suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Q: Is almond oil suitable for oily skin?
A: Yes, almond oil can be used as a moisturizer for oily skin as well. Just use a small quantity to avoid a greasy feeling.
Q: How often should I use the besan face mask?
A: For nourishment, once a week is sufficient. For detanning, use it continuously for 4-5 days.
Q: Can I use phitkari instead of deodorant daily?
A: Yes, rubbing wet phitkari on your underarms daily is a natural and effective alternative to commercial deodorants.
Q: Are neem leaves safe to consume regularly?
A: Yes, chewing 4-5 neem leaves once a week is beneficial for skin and blood purification. However, consult a healthcare professional if you have specific health concerns.
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