No really, the Arjun chal powder is, in fact, a magical Ayurvedic skincare remedy. Arjun chal literally means the bark of the tree of Arjun. It has traditionally been used to treat a number of skin disorders as well as to improve overall health. This post, however, is strictly about the topical application of this powder for acne-prone and oily skin.
The weather of late has been my enemy (when is it not!). It’s been raining non-stop for days on end, which means the humidity levels have been consistently high. It’s the worst possible kind of climate for my skin. I’ve been dealing with frequent breakouts, a ton of grease, and dull unhealthy looking skin as a result. Absolutely nothing works for me in this weather, not mud masks, not clay masks, not even multani mitti (Fuller’s earth).
But this powder DOES work. Here’s how:
- It’s mildly exfoliant, so it picks up the oil, the grime, as well as the top layer of dead skin – leaving the face looking very fresh
- It has some properties that give the skin a rosy flush – apparently it improves blood circulation
- It mops up prickly heat from the face and helps existing acne to heal
- It also helps in dealing with acne pigmentation
- It smooths textured skin
- All of the above is achieved over the course of a few applications, not overnight, but you will see a palpable difference right away.
This is not an oil-control powder, though you will notice a reduction in oil production as well.
How to Use Arjun Chal Powder
It’s best used every other day, preferably in the night before you go to bed. (I use it in the afternoon since I don’t have the time for it in the night.) I mix this powder with water though it was recommended that I mix it with milk. But milk doesn’t suit my skin.
The paste has to be of the right consistency, however, which is tricky, since the nature of the powder is such that it doesn’t mix with water well. You will have to be patient and add just a few drops at a time. if there’s too much water, it will separate from the powder and run down the face.
Apply it to a clean face and leave it on for 30-40 minutes. It’s best to lie down when you do so. This powder can leave a rusty reddish stain on your clothes/pillow covers so be careful about that. I’d suggest washing off your face in the kitchen sink if you want to keep the white of the ceramic wash bowl in your bathroom looking pristine.
I use this powder as and when I need it, which means it’s always in my cupboard but not necessarily a part of my everyday skincare routine. It’s my trustworthy source for when I want to reboot my skin, so to speak – take it from a pimple-ridden, leathery and dull looking place to a healthy and rosy wonderland.
Stock up on this!
Arjun chal powder was recommended to me by a veteran Ayurvedic practitioner, and it has been my saviour this season. It’s completely organic, so no more preservatives- or chemical-laden masks. It’s inexpensive so you save money and get better results. It’s travel-friendly (though that’s not a huge concern in the post-pandemic world). More importantly, it’s easily available, so I suggest if you are looking for a quick fix for your skin in this weather, this is worth a try. You will know in the first application itself whether it works for you or not. If it does, you’ll have found a keeper. If it doesn’t, simply toss it out!
If you have any questions or comments, share them here or connect with me on Instagram for more skincare talk.
Peace, love, and happy happy vibes!