Who is not familiar with the refreshing and cool taste of mint? You must be familiar with the calming, antibacterial, and fragrant benefits of mint, with its abundant use in toothpaste, tea, mouth fresheners, and even ice cream. Skincare fanatics must be aware of the wide use of mint, or spearmint, in bath products for its aromatic qualities, but are you aware that mint also has wonderful health benefits for your skin?
Is Spearmint Good For Your Skin?
A study published in Molecular Diversity Preservation International revealed that mint has antioxidant properties that protect the skin from UV-B damage and prevent premature skin ageing and the development of skin cancer. In fact, various cultures worldwide have been using mint for centuries, for its medicinal and skincare benefits. Here are a few more reasons that will surely convince you to try mint for your skincare:
Cleansing and Toning
Mint-infused cleansers and toners are excellent for removing impurities and tightening pores. The cooling effect of mint provides similar benefits for closing your pores as ice does. The natural astringent properties of mint help in balancing oil production, preventing acne, and leaving your skin feeling fresh.
Soothing Irritated Skin
Mint also shows anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties and hence is a great solution for calming irritated skin. Applying a mint-based mask or gel can provide relief from conditions like sunburn or insect bites.
Acne Control
If you struggle with acne-prone skin, mint can be your ally. It helps reduce excess oil, prevents clogged pores, and minimizes the appearance of acne scars. Mint-based spot treatments or face masks can be effective in your battle against blemishes.
Also Read: Study Reveals That Peppermint Oil May Reduce Chronic Pain and Help Achieve Quality Sleep
Skin Hydration
Mint is a natural source of hydration. Its water content helps keep your skin moisturized, preventing dryness and flakiness. That is why mint is often used in products that help heal cracked nipples of breastfeeding mothers.
Anti-Aging Benefits
Rich in antioxidants like vitamins A and C, mint helps in fighting external irritants that cause premature ageing. Regular use of mint-based skincare products will certainly give you a youthful and radiant complexion.
DIY Mint Face Packs
The best way to see the benefits of any natural ingredient is to consistently use it in a face pack. Face packs allow the skin to be completely soaked in the nutrients for a long time, extracting maximum advantages. Now that you know the benefits of mint, here are a few recipes to get you started. Once you understand the best products to pair mint with for your skin, you can start experimenting with this miraculous herb in your own way.
Also Read: Mint Is The Best Summer Skin Care Ingredient, Read Its Benefits and Use
Mint and Multani Mitti (Fuller's Earth) Face Pack
Multani mitti is a popular skincare ingredient in India known for its oil-absorbing properties and its calming effect. Mixed with spearmint, this face pack can alleviate all your toner needs, and give you a poreless, glass skin appearance.
- Crush a handful of mint leaves into a paste and add two tablespoons of multani mitti.
- Add rose water or plain yoghurt to create a thick paste.
- Apply the mixture evenly to your face and neck.
- Allow it to dry for 15-20 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
Mint and Turmeric Face Scrub
Turmeric is a beloved ingredient in Indian skincare for its anti-inflammatory and brightening properties. When mixed with the refreshing mint, this face pack works wonders for people dealing with sun damage, skin irritation, and hyperpigmentation.
- Mix the paste of mint leaves with a pinch of turmeric powder and a tablespoon of besan or chickpea flour.
- Add a little water or rose water to create a paste.
- Gently scrub your face with this mixture in circular motions for exfoliation.
- Rinse off with water, and enjoy smoother, brighter skin.
Mint and Aloe Vera Soothing Gel
Aloe vera is another ingredient famous for its soothing properties. For people who get skin irritation, sunburn, and acne easily, this face pack can be the right addition to your skincare game.
- Blend mint leaves with fresh aloe vera gel (or store-bought if unavailable).
- Apply the mint and aloe vera gel to sunburned or irritated areas of your skin.
- Leave it on for 20-30 minutes and then rinse with cool water.
Mint and Sandalwood Face Pack
Another aromatic staple in Indian skin care for centuries, sandalwood is valued for its cooling, skin-brightening, and spot-correction effects. A mint and sandalwood face pack is sure to help you with treating acne scars, skin redness, and sun tan.
- Mix the mint paste with a teaspoon of sandalwood powder and a few drops of rose water.
- Apply this pack to your face and let it dry for 20-30 minutes.
- Rinse off with lukewarm water.
Mint and Neem Oil Spot Treatment
Neem oil is renowned in India for its antibacterial properties, making it ideal for treating acne and blemishes. Applying neem oil and mint mixture can help you to reduce inflammation and fight acne-causing bacteria.
- Mix a few drops of neem oil with crushed mint leaves.
- Apply this mixture directly to acne-prone areas before bedtime.
- Leave it overnight and wash your face in the morning.
Keep in mind that mint is extremely potent. As is obvious from its sharp taste and smell. So, do not use it without doing a patch test first. If your skin does not show any visible sign of irritation, even then start with very small quantities of mint in your face packs, and slowly increase the quantity while keeping an eye on how your skin is responding. Additionally, since mint acts as a natural astringent, it's best to use it in small quantities if you suffer from dry skin. Remember, all-natural herbs and products work by building your body from within. Hence you need to be consistent, and most importantly patient, in your endeavour to extract maximum benefits from mint for your skin.