Think of the last time you used lemongrass. Was it in a fragrant Thai curry? Or perhaps you infused a sprig of it in your evening tea? Lemongrass’ wide usage in a variety of dishes is proof of its popularity in the kitchen. However, what you may not be aware of is its fame outside too! It’s true—lemongrass is known to work its magic in beauty routines as well. It is jam-packed with skin-friendly agents that can work wonders for common beauty concerns. Wondering how? Here’s a look at why this lemony leaf can go a long way in helping you achieve healthy skin…
 

Where does lemongrass come from?

Where does lemongrass come from?

With its sharp edges and long leaves, lemongrass is native to tropical and subtropical countries like Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia and Malaysia. Like its cousin, the lemon, this plant has a citrusy scent too. Its leaves, which make up most of the plant, can be dried or infused in water and the extract can be used to get lemongrass oil. Since it is quite cheap and easily available, it’s many by-products are popular in home remedies, face packs and other skin care routines.

 

What are benefits of lemongrass?

What are benefits of lemongrass?

Firstly, lemongrass is anti-fungal and anti-bacterial in nature owing to citral, an organic compound that is found in its leaf. It is responsible for keeping bacteria and infections at bay, which means, when used on skin, it helps ward off acne, pimples and rashes.

Secondly, its antioxidant-rich compounds are one of the factors that make lemongrass anti-inflammatory in nature. This can be of great help to soothe irritated skin and calm redness, something that is of top relevance especially in the summer when too much time is spent under the sun sans moisturisation, sunscreen or any other barrier to defend the skin from the sun. This property also makes it an instant topical solution for pain relief.

Thirdly, lemongrass works as an excellent astringent since it effectively constricts blood vessels. Hence, it is widely used as a toner to reduce the appearance of pores.

 

How to use lemongrass in our skin care routine

How to use lemongrass in our skin care routine

It’s possible to give your skin a refreshing dose of lemongrass with a cooling face mask. Combine 2 tablespoons of fuller’s earth (multani mitti) with 3 drops of lemongrass essential oil and 1 tablespoon of aloe vera pulp.

Combine the mixture to form a thick paste.

Apply it over your face and neck, leave it for 30 minutes until it hardens and then wash it off with water. The cooling effect of aloe vera with the soothing benefits of lemongrass come refresh the face and leave it rejuvenated.

Another great way to add lemongrass to your skin care routine is with the Lakmé Sun Expert Fairness + UV Lotion SPF 24 PA+++. Its broad spectrum formula is enriched with the lemongrass and cucumber. So its benefits are twofold; it shields skin from UVA and UVB rays and also prevents tanning, burning and premature ageing.

What better companion could you need this summer!