Tamarind is known for its natural exfoliating properties. Thai women often make a face mask by mixing tamarind pulp with honey and applying it to their faces to help brighten and rejuvenate the skin.
Turmeric is a common ingredient in Thai cuisine, and it's also used in skincare. A mixture of turmeric and yogurt can be applied as a face mask to help reduce blemishes and give the skin a healthy glow.
Lemongrass is known for its antibacterial properties. Thai people use lemongrass essential oil or crushed lemongrass leaves in a facial steam to help reduce acne and improve skin clarity.
Rice water, the milky water leftover after rinsing rice, is used as a natural toner in Thailand. It's believed to tighten pores, brighten the complexion, and balance the skin's pH.
Aloe vera is a well-known remedy for sunburn relief. In Thailand, it's common to apply fresh aloe vera gel to the skin to soothe and heal sun-damaged skin.
Thai herbal compress massages, known as "Luk Pra Kob," use a blend of herbs, such as ginger, turmeric, and lemongrass, wrapped in a cloth and steamed. The heated compress is used to massage the body, promoting relaxation and improving skin circulation.
Camphor oil is used in Thai haircare to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss. Massaging the scalp with camphor oil is believed to improve blood circulation and strengthen hair follicles.
Mung beans are often used in face masks in Thailand. They are soaked, ground into a paste, and applied to the face. Mung bean masks are believed to help with acne, tighten pores, and brighten the skin.