Cinnamon is one of the most common spices found in Indian kitchens. It is used to enhance the taste and flavour of many Indian preparations. This spice is used for many medicinal purposes due to its health benefits but did you know it had many extensive beauty benefits too? Cinnamon oil and powder have numerous skin benefits and have been used historically by royal families too. Cinnamon is found in the inner bark of the genus tree and can heal several skin problems and infections. Cinnamon has a glorious reputation in the beauty space and we tell you why you need to add it to your skincare routine too.
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Beauty benefits of cinnamon
7 Beauty Benefits Of Cinnamon
1. Reduces Acne And Pimples
Due to the antiseptic properties of cinnamon, it is a great ingredient for acne and pimples. Many medical ointments include this ingredient for the quick healing of acne, pimples and blemishes. Make a thick paste using a tablespoon of cinnamon and 3 tablespoons of honey and apply it to the pimples. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, before washing it away with lukewarm water. It is advisable to restrict the use of this paste to once a week only.
2. Helps Reduce Eczema
Eczema is a dry skin problem which makes the skin red, inflamed and itchy. Applying cinnamon powder with honey to the affected area is said to have given give relief to many people suffering from the condition.
3. Improves Skin Texture
Cinnamon is one of the most effective natural exfoliators and is also responsible for improving the skin's texture. It can also improve the complexion while creating a protective layer due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Make a face mask using cinnamon powder, mashed bananas, yoghurt and lemon juice. Apply this mask to your entire face and let it sit for a while. Wash it with lukewarm water for smooth and glowing skin.
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Cinnamon powder has various skin benefits
4. Natural Lip Plumper
Cinnamon's spicy characteristic is used to make lips plumper and fuller naturally. Applying a mixture of cinnamon oil with olive oil will lead to giving you softer, smoother and plumper lips. Many lip balms contain cinnamon as their main ingredient for this very purpose.
5. Softens Harsh Heels
Heels get dull and rough after harsh weather conditions. They are also often the most ignored parts of the body. The cinnamon powder works wonders in removing dead skin cells from the heels since it is a great skin exfoliator. Prepare a scrub using sea salt, cinnamon powder, olive oil and honey. Apply the scrub to your heels and massage it. Let it settle for 10 to 15 minutes before washing it away. Follow it up with a moisturiser and you are good to go.
6. Reduces Scalp Itchiness And Cleanses It
Dirt, grime, and dandruff settle on the scalp and lead to scalp itchiness. Even if you try, this cannot be easily removed from the scalp, causing infection and other problems. The cleansing and exfoliating properties of cinnamon can be used to reduce scalp itchiness. Make a thick paste using cinnamon powder, olive oil and honey. Massage this mask into your scalp and let it sit for 15 minutes. Wash it off with lukewarm water.
7. Gives Hydrated Skin
If you have a dry skin type and you feel the dryness of your skin, add cinnamon oil to your skincare. It enhances blood flow and circulation, thus keeping the skin hydrated and moist. Add a few drops of cinnamon oil to petroleum jelly or olive oil and apply the mixture as a face mask. You can even use the mixture as a lip mask to treat chapped lips.
Use cinnamon as a beauty ingredient in the oil and powder form
Even though cinnamon has numerous beauty benefits, it is after all a spice and may even cause skin irritation. It is advisable to consult your dermatologist before including the new ingredient in your beauty routine. Also, conduct a patch test before introducing any new ingredient in your regimen.
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