Mumbai: Alum, commonly referred to as phitkari, is a naturally occurring mineral with a wide range of practical uses and health benefits. This versatile substance has been utilised for centuries in traditional medicine and skincare due to its remarkable properties.
Rich in antiseptic, astringent, and antibacterial qualities, alum is effective in treating various ailments. Its antiseptic nature makes it an excellent choice for wound care, helping to prevent infections and promote healing. Additionally, alum’s astringent properties can help tighten tissues, making it beneficial for skincare routines, particularly in toners and facial masks, where it can minimise pores and improve skin texture.
Beyond its applications in personal care, alum is also used in food preservation, water purification, and even in the textile industry for dyeing fabrics. Its multifaceted nature not only highlights its significance in traditional practices but also emphasises its relevance in modern applications, making it a valuable substance in both health and industry.
In the quest for effective and natural beauty solutions, alum emerges as a remarkable ally. Known for its antiseptic, astringent, and antibacterial properties, this age-old ingredient has been a staple in traditional medicine and skincare. But beyond its historical uses, alum offers a range of benefits that can enhance your beauty routine.
Whether you’re looking to tackle skin issues or elevate your haircare game, these 10 beauty hacks using alum will help you unlock its hidden potential.
Discover 10 surprising beauty benefits of alum, from treating acne to enhancing skin glow and promoting healthy hair!
1. Treats skin infections: Alum is effective in treating skin infections due to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It serves as a beneficial remedy for minor skin ailments by helping to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Applying a small amount of an alum solution to the affected area can enhance recovery and soothe irritation.
2. Acne treatment: The antibacterial properties of alum make it effective in treating acne. Applying a diluted alum solution to affected areas can help reduce pimples and prevent breakouts.
Create a paste by mixing alum powder with water and applying it directly to acne spots. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
3. Aftershave relief: Applying alum to freshly shaved skin can soothe irritation, reduce redness, and act as an antiseptic to prevent infections.
4. Dandruff control: Alum can help combat dandruff by reducing scalp inflammation and fighting fungal infections. Mixing alum with water and applying it to the scalp can promote a healthier scalp.
Mix alum with warm water and massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing to help control dandruff and soothe irritation.
5. Foot odour reduction: Alum can be used in foot soaks to help eliminate foot odour and keep feet feeling fresh. It can also help to treat an athlete’s foot.
Add alum powder to a foot soak with warm water. Soak your feet for 20-30 minutes to combat odour and refresh tired feet.
6. Wound healing: The antiseptic properties of alum make it useful for treating minor cuts and scrapes. It can be applied directly to the wound to promote healing and prevent infection.
7. Natural antiperspirant: Use alum powder as a deodorant by applying a small amount to your underarms. It helps control sweat and odour without the chemicals found in commercial products.
8. Skin tightening: Make a toner by dissolving a teaspoon of alum in a cup of rose water. Apply it to your face with a cotton pad to tighten the skin and minimise pores.
9. Skin brightening: Combine alum powder with yoghurt or honey to create a brightening face mask. Apply it for 15-20 minutes to enhance skin tone.
10. Skin exfoliant: Combine alum with sugar or salt to create a gentle scrub. Use it once a week to exfoliate dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion.
