Recognized by its scientific name “Santalum Album” and commonly referred to as “Chandan” in the Indian region, sandalwood holds a position of prominence (1). Esteemed for its remarkable aromatic and skincare attributes, sandalwood is harnessed in various forms, including oil, powder, and paste. Its versatile applications extend to being a key ingredient in numerous beauty products, attesting to its widespread usage in skincare.
For individuals grappling with oily and acne-prone skin, delving into the vast array of skin care products often reveals the inclusion of sandalwood. Its incorporation into skincare formulations is driven by its proven efficacy in addressing skin concerns, making it a sought-after remedy for those seeking balance and nourishment for their skin.
Exploring the benefits of sandalwood beyond its fragrance unveils a wealth of skincare advantages. Whether in oil, powder, or paste, sandalwood is a multifaceted ally in pursuing radiant and healthy skin, adding tradition and science to modern skincare routines.
Constant exposure to pollution, dirt, and stressful environments can take a toll on your skin, potentially leading to dark spots, acne, wrinkles, and more. Investing in sandalwood oil is a valuable and effective solution to addressing these skin concerns. This article explores the various benefits of sandalwood oil, shedding light on its versatile applications and providing insightful recipes for optimal skin care.
Uses of Sandalwood Oil
Sandalwood oil can be trusted to take care of numerous skin problems. Some of the benefits are discussed below –
1. Acne, Pimples, and Breakouts:
Sandalwood has antiseptic properties that prevent pimples, acne, and sores from developing. However, daily exposure to dust and dirt may cause bacterial growth on your skin, leading to skin problems—the sandalwood oil fights against these acne-causing bacteria (2).
2. Dark Spots and Dark Eyes:
Enriched with anti-inflammatory & astringent properties, sandalwood effectively treats conditions like dark spots and eyes. Regular application of sandalwood can reduce these unwanted spots.
3. Skin Inflammations:
Sandalwood oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can cure skin inflammation, itching, and localized rashes. It is also helpful in treating skin cuts, wounds, and insect bites. In addition, sandalwood can soothe inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis.
4. Moisture Retention:
Sandalwood oil is extremely gentle on the skin and helps retain its moisture level. It keeps the skin soft, supple, and hydrated.
5. Protects from Aging Effects:
The daily exposure of the skin to free radicals and different pollutants may cause wrinkles and sagging skin. Sandalwood oil is rich in antioxidants, which fight the actions of free radicals. In addition, the anti-aging properties of sandalwood oil gradually heal the skin of these premature aging effects (3).
6. Maintains Skin Oil Balance:
Sandalwood oil may also help to maintain the oil balance of the skin. But, most importantly, sandalwood oil does not upset or destabilize the oil balance.
Also Read- Sandalwood Face Pack for Skin Whitening
7. Exfoliates Skin:
Sandalwood has light exfoliating properties and can be used to treat skin problems like a suntan.
8. Skin Infection:
The antibacterial properties of sandalwood oil make it an effective solution for treating skin infections.
9. Cures Prickly Heat:
The sandalwood has a soothing effect, which makes it an excellent cure for heat rashes.
10. Large Pores:
Sandalwood is an astringent that helps tighten and contract tissues and pores. This activity reduces the appearance of large pores and reduces the occurrence of skin breakouts.
Application of Sandalwood Oil
1. Direct Skin Massage:
The sandalwood oil can be directly massaged on the skin. However, some people may have hypersensitive skin and require oil dilution. Adding jojoba oil to the sandalwood oil may prevent adverse reactions.
2. Massage Oil:
A few drops of sandalwood oil can be added to the regular massage oil for whole-body massage. As a massage oil, it soothes and hydrates the skin and offers calmness to the mind.
3. Steam Inhalation:
This is used for two reasons – (a) to manage respiratory issues and (b) to treat facial skin problems like pimples, acne, and breakouts.
Direction for Use
- Add a few drops of sandalwood oil to steaming water in a bowl.
- Place your face over the steam, cover your head, face, and bowl with a clean towel, and inhale the steam.
Inhalation helps to deal with respiratory issues while the oil particles with steam help to clean the facial skin and cure certain skin problems.
8 DIY Sandalwood Oil Recipes
While sandalwood oil can be a magic wand in treating various skin problems, let’s look at some recipes you can prepare from home.
1. Pimple:
Ingredients:
- One tablespoon of turmeric powder
- Three drops of sandalwood oil
- Rosewater or springwater
- Mixing bowl
- Tepid water
Directions for Use:
- Add the turmeric powder and 2-3 drops of sandalwood oil into your mixing bowl (You may use as much as seven drops of sandalwood oil depending on your skin sensitivity).
- Add spring or rose water (for dry skin, use spring water) and mix well. Apply a thin layer on your face and let it dry for 20-30 minutes.
- Rinse off with tepid water and use a soft towel to pat your skin dry gently. Apply 2-3 days a week.
Turmeric and sandalwood have anti-inflammatory properties, and both functions to soothe skin irritation and inflammation. Pimples start shrinking within 48 hours of the first application.
2. Excessive Tan:
Ingredients
Direction for Use
- Mash the cucumber into a paste.
- Mix the sandalwood, cucumber paste, yogurt, and lemon into a fine paste.
- Apply generously to the skin.
- Leave to dry and rinse off with tepid water.
The exfoliating properties of the mixture remove the excessive tan and rid the skin of scars and dark marks.
3. Skin Rashes, Itchiness, and Inflammation:
Ingredients:
- One teaspoon of turmeric powder
- Three drops of sandalwood oil
- One teaspoon of lime juice
- Mixing bowl
- Tepid water
- Towel
Directions for Use
- Add the 2-3 drops of sandalwood oil (you may use as many as seven drops).
- Add one teaspoon of turmeric and lime juice to the bowl.
- Mix all ingredients into a fine paste.
- Apply the paste generously to the affected skin areas.
- Leave the paste on for 30-40 minutes.
- Rinse off with tepid water, and pat dry your skin gently using a soft towel.
This mask treats the itchiness immediately, however, skin swelling and inflammation get soothed gradually.
4. Scars:
Ingredients:
- Sandalwood
Direction for Use
- Apply diluted sandalwood oil to your skin (mix an equal amount of coconut oil to cut)
- Massage gently in a circular motion.
- Wash off with tepid water.
5. Dry Skin:
Ingredients:
- Honey
- Sandalwood
Direction for Use
- Mix the sandalwood oil with honey.
- Apply the mask generously to the skin.
- Leave on for 20-30 minutes and rinse off with tepid water.
6. Eczema
Ingredients:
- Sandalwood
Direction for Use
- Apply 2-3 drops of diluted sandalwood oil to your palm.
- Massage gently to the affected areas.
- Repeat the process daily until visible results are seen.
7. Wrinkles and Fine Lines
Ingredients:
- Sandalwood oil
- Egg yolk
- Honey
Direction for Use
- Mix all the three ingredients into a fine paste.
- Apply the paste generously to the affected areas and leave it on for 20-30 minutes.
- Rinse off gently using tepid water.
8. Makeup Removal
Ingredients:
- Half a cup of hot water
- A quarter cup of Castile liquid
- Ten drops of sandalwood oil
- Two tablespoons of coconut oil
- Storage bottle
Direction for Use
- Mix the Castile liquid and hot water.
- Add ten drops of sandalwood to the mixture.
- Add two tablespoons of coconut oil.
- Mix all ingredients in a perfect blend.
- Store in a well-sealed storage bottle.
- Dab the mixture on your skin using a cotton swab for makeup removal.
Precautions and Possible Side Effects
1. Before incorporating sandalwood essential oil into your skincare routine, conduct a patch test to ensure you do not have an allergic reaction to the oil. Apply the intended sandalwood oil recipe to a small skin patch to perform the test. Cover the patch with a bandage and keep it dry for 24 hours. It is likely safe for broader and regular use if you observe no irritation or rash during this period.
2. For use during pregnancy or on children, kindly consult your health expert before applying it.
For skin problems that have been persistent with no visible sign of improvement, consult your dermatologist or any accessible medical expert for further diagnosis and treatment.
3. If used improperly or excessively, sandalwood oil may have adverse side effects. Some of these include
Eye Irritation -. Burning sensation, redness, and itching may occur when you accidentally touch your eyes after using sandalwood oil.
Nasal Irritation may include runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion.
Phototoxic Reactions – When you expose your skin to direct sun rays after applying sandalwood oil, you may experience reactions such as redness, skin blistering, burning, and itching sensation.
Summary
Investing in sandalwood oil and extracts proves valuable for addressing a range of common skin issues. Incorporating sandalwood oil into your beauty routine comes with numerous benefits. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it effective in treating acne, dark spots, skin inflammation, and wrinkles. However, it’s crucial to use it properly, as improper application may lead to rashes and irritations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use sandalwood oil on my face daily?
Topical application of sandalwood oil is considered safe; however, one should refrain from using it daily to avoid skin irritation and rashes. Instead, you can add a carrier oil to dilute its strength.
Can the use of sandalwood oil darken my skin?
Contrary to popular belief, regular application of sandalwood oil may help brighten and whiten the skin. It can also check acne, pigmentation, and dark spots.
Can sandalwood oil remove dark spots?
Yes. Sandalwood oil’s exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties effectively reduce skin blemishes, dark spots, acne, pimple, etc.
Is sandalwood essential oil good for oily skin?
Yes, sandalwood oil is good for oily and acne-prone skin. Enriched with astringent and antiseptic properties, it fights against skin inflammation, controls excess moisture, and reduces the appearance of acne.
Also Read – 10 Best Sandalwood Soaps in India for a Lighter, Brighter, and Flawless Skin
References –
- “The Health Potential of Sandalwood” – healthline.com
- “Benefits Of Sandalwood For Your Skincare Regime” – forestessentialsindia.com
- “SANDALWOOD OIL CAN BE A MIRACULOUS TACKLE ON SKIN AGING, SKIN APPEARANCE, AND WRINKLE SKIN-A REVIEW” – researchgate.net
