Summer has been throwing its curve-balls at us and some have hit us bad in the face! We mean the sunburns and acne breakouts it has been causing are so annoying. However, the season also brings us some respite in the form of mangoes and other vegetables and herbs. One such herb that’s a summer essential is mint or pudina. The cooling effect of mint and its aroma makes it a perfect addition to summer salads and raita. It aids in digestion and relieves acidity. But did you know you can use mint for skin care too? Don’t believe us? Let’s hear it from an expert.
Health Shots spoke to Dr Geetika Mittal Gupta, Aesthetic Physician, Isaac Luxe, who listed several benefits of mint and some awesome ways to use it for a glowing skin.
Dr Gupta says, “The presence of specific plant chemicals accounts for the therapeutic benefits of mint leaves. These flavonoids, phenols, and carotenoids are antioxidant composites that are found in nature. They play a key role in giving mint leaves important immune-stimulating, anti-allergic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Mint leaves include salicylic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties, and vitamin A, which regulates sebum production in the skin. Acne outbreaks are more common in people with oily skin and they see a hike during summer. Mint leaves’ potent anti-inflammatory effects can effectively cure dry, itchy skin as well as cuts, wounds, and mosquito bites.”
Now that you know about these exceedingly amazing benefits of the humble pudina, you must be wondering about how to use it for your skin. Well, Dr Gupta has curated many DIY skincare methods dedicated to mint leaves.
Here’s how to use mint for skin care:
1. Mint and Banana Face pack
Bananas are rich in vitamins, potassium, amino acids, zinc, and other nutrients that nourish and moisturize the skin. They are also known for preventing damage and fading acne scars. This face pack contains mint, which improves the health and flexibility of the skin and leaves it looking radiant.
How to use: Mash a few mint leaves with 1 inch piece of a ripe banana. Apply this pack for 15 minutes and wash it off using cold water.
2. Mint Toner
For a refreshing spritz that will energise your senses and brighten up your dull and tired skin, a mint toner is a perfect DIY this summer.
How to use: Shred roughly one cup of mint leaves and set aside to prepare a mint toner. Bring one and a half cups of water to a boil, then add the shredded mint leaves, cover with a lid, and turn off the heat. Once the concoction has cooled, filter it and keep it in a clean, dry bottle with a spray nozzle.
3. Mint and Fuller’s earth
Multani mitti, which is rich in skin-friendly ingredients, is beneficial in lowering the frequency of acne and blemishes that summer and monsoon brings with it. It is also one of the best ingredients for controlling oil. You receive twice as many advantages when it is combined with mint leaves! Your skin will be nourished and excess oil will be removed by this mint face pack. This DIY also includes honey and curd that will aid in restoring the moisture balance of your skin.
How to use: Mix a teaspoon of fuller’s earth in a teaspoon of curd. Add some crushed mint leaves in a mortar and pestle. Add a few drops of honey and give it all a good mix. Apply this face pack for 15 minutes. Do not let it harden and wash with cold water.
4. Mint and Rosewater serum:
One of the best substances for calming inflamed skin is rosewater. On the other hand, your skin tone is enhanced by glycerine’s moisturizing properties. As you know, mint leaves can be used to cure acne and slow down the ageing process. When you combine all of these ingredients, you may create a potent face serum that can practically treat any skin issue. To maintain healthy, problem-free skin, it is advised to apply this light face serum on a daily basis.
How to use: Crush 8-10 leaves of mint in a mortar and pestle. Transfer the green pudina paste in a glass container. Add 10 ml rosewater to it. Add 7 -8 drops of Glycerine to it and shake well. Place the concoction in the refrigerator and let it all infuse together. Strain the contents the next day and transfer it all into a clean dropper bottle. Apply this serum liberally on your face whenever your skin feels irritated and dry.