Written By: Tania Tarafdar | Updated : May 25, 2016 5:45 PM IST
Did you know Cleopatra bathed in saffron infused water? Saffron or kesar has been a beauty ingredient for the royal families since centuries. Even in India saffron has been used since olden times to soothe the skin. There is a popular belief that applying saffron can improve your skin complexion and make you fairer. But can saffron have that magical effect on your skin? Dr Shefali Gupta Dermatologist at Panache Skin Care, Delhi answers your question.
Applying saffron
Yes, it is true that regular use of saffron can improve your skin tone and brighten your skin. It can also help reduce tan and impart a glowing skin. The combined effect of which will surely make your skin look radiant but will not make your skin tone lighter.
To reduce the tan and brighten your skin tone, soak a few strands of saffron in milk for a good half-an-hour to let the milk get its colour and other benefits. Add a teaspoon of sandalwood powder or chandan to this and apply the pack on your face and neck. Keep it for 15-20 minutes before washing it off. Use it 2 to 3 times a week to brighten your skin tone. You can also try using these saffron pack's to get skin like a queen's.
Consuming saffron
Many also believe that drinking milk with saffron will impart a fairer skin. While a pinch of saffron added to milk can be consumed to prevent heart diseases and keep hypertension and cholesterol in check [1] and [2]. It will not have any effect on the complexion of your skin. Here are more reasons why it can be a good idea to include saffron in your diet.
Bottomline-- Saffron can give a healthy glow to your skin but it won't change your skin complexion. You can try these treatments to reduce pigmentation and get clear skin.
References
1. Shen, X. C., & Qian, Z. Y. (2006). Effects of crocetin on antioxidant enzymatic activities in cardiac hypertrophy induced by norepinephrine in rats. Die Pharmazie-An International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 61(4), 348-352.
2. Yan J, Qian Z, Sheng L, Zhao B, Yang L, Ji H, Han X, Zhang R. Shock. 2010 Jan;33(1):83-7. doi: 10.1097/SHK.0b013e3181a98f55.
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