HOW IMPORTANT IS BESAN FOR SKIN?

Dr Blossom Kochhar

Besan, also known as chickpea flour or gram flour, has been a staple ingredient in Indian households for centuries, prized for its numerous skincare benefits. Rich in nutrients and with gentle exfoliating properties, Besan is a versatile ingredient that can help address various skincare concerns, especially during the summer months. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the importance of Besan in skincare, what to add to Besan for enhanced results in summers, what to avoid mixing with Besan , and essential tips for incorporating Besan into your skincare routine.

IMPORTANCE OF BESAN IN SKINCARE
It is packed with nutrients beneficial for the skin, making it a valuable addition to your skincare regimen. Here are some key reasons why besan is essential for healthy, radiant skin:
Exfoliation: It contains fine granules that gently exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells, dirt, and impurities from the surface. Regular exfoliation with it helps unclog pores, prevent acne breakouts, and promote a smoother, brighter complexion.
Oil Control: Oily skin types can benefit from its oil-absorbing properties. It helps absorb excess oil from the skin’s surface, reducing shine and preventing the buildup of sebum that can lead to breakouts.
Skin Brightening: It is known for its skin-brightening properties. It contains enzymes that help lighten dark spots, pigmentation, and uneven skin tone, revealing a more luminous complexion over time.
Gentle Cleansing: It acts as a natural cleanser, effectively removing dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. It’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, as it is gentle and non-abrasive.
Tightening Pores: The astringent properties of this ingredient help tighten pores, minimizing their appearance and giving the skin a smoother, more refined texture.

WHAT TO ADD IN BESAN FOR BEST RESULTS
Incorporating additional ingredients into Besan-based skincare formulations can enhance its efficacy, especially during the hot summer months. Here are some ingredients to consider adding to it for better results:
Turmeric: Turmeric is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Mixing turmeric can help reduce acne, calm irritation, and promote a healthy glow.
Rose Water: Rose water has soothing and hydrating properties, making it an excellent addition to Besan -based face masks or cleansers. It helps balance the skin’s pH levels, tighten pores, and refresh tired skin.
Lemon Juice: Lemon juice contains citric acid, which helps exfoliate the skin and lighten dark spots and pigmentation. When combined with besan, it creates a potent brightening and clarifying mask suitable for oily and acne-prone skin.
Yogurt: Yogurt is rich in lactic acid, which gently exfoliates the skin, boosts collagen production, and improves skin texture. Mixing yogurt creates a nourishing and hydrating mask that helps balance oiliness and soothe irritation.
Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera gel is known for its moisturising, soothing, and healing properties. Adding aloe vera gel to Besan-based skincare formulations can help calm inflammation, reduce redness, and promote skin repair and regeneration.

WHAT NOT TO MIX WITH BESAN
While besan is a versatile ingredient, there are certain ingredients that may not mix well with it or may cause adverse reactions. Avoid mixing besan with the following:
Chemical Exfoliants: Mixing besan with chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) can be too harsh for the skin, leading to irritation or over-exfoliation.
Harsh Scrubs: Abrasive scrubs containing rough particles or large granules can cause micro-tears in the skin when combined with besan, leading to irritation and sensitivity.
Alcohol-Based Products: Alcohol-based products can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause dryness or irritation when mixed with besan, as they both have the tendency to make the skin dry.

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND
When incorporating this kitchen ingredient into your skincare routine, consider the following tips for optimal results:
Patch Test: Before using these skincare products on your face, perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any adverse reactions or allergies.
Consistency: Consistency is key when it comes to skincare. Use regularly to see noticeable results over time.
Sun Protection: Always follow up your skincare routine with a broad-spectrum sunscreen, especially when using ingredients like lemon juice or turmeric, which can increase sensitivity to sunlight.
Hydration: Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using moisturisers to prevent dryness or dehydration, especially in hot weather.
Remove Thoroughly: Ensure you rinse off thoroughly with lukewarm water to avoid any residue buildup that could potentially clog pores.

Dr Blossom Kochhar is Chairperson, Blossom Kochhar Group of Companies