Sandalwood- Beyond its Hardwood’s Ceremonial Sanctity
Sandalwood or Santalum album was naturalised in Southern India in 1300 BCE, where it earned the names Chandan and Srigandha for the name of Goddess Laxmi’s abode. In its marvellous journey it gained reputation of being associated with divinity, luxury and prosperity, with Chandan Paste being applied for calmness & serenity. It is still given as parshad in various temples and is seen as a significator of one being closer to the Divine.
With its Venusian charm, it soon began to be associated with beauty and radiance, these benefits are not merely based on folklore but are backed by evidence that is bound to captivate as much as this ethereal tree’s fragrance.
Bountiful with nourishing properties, it acts as an antioxidant and helps prevent sagging and wrinkling of the skin. Its use as an ubtan for brides-to-be is famed due to its potent action on scars and acne. Perhaps its most celebrated attribute is its cooling nature which not only helps with anxiety and stress but also makes it a loved ingredient against stubborn tan and pigmentation.
It is no surprise hence that something so revered as grandma’s nuske is still a part of modern skin care. Indian personal care brand Omeo has recently launched a Sunscreen with SPF 50 with PA++++ protection- Did I tell you its name yet? Omeo Sandalwood & Turmeric Sunscreen combines the holy grail of natural ingredients in a first of its kind sunscreen that not just protects the skin from sun damage but also helps nourish and repair it. Its key ingredients Sandalwood and Turmeric are complimented by Licorice, Papaya and Vitamin E- all of which make it a superb product for the Indian Skin. The best part- It is non-sticky with absolutely zero white cast! Don’t believe me? Try it for yourself and I challenge you to go back to any other sunscreen after this. Bonus points for being pocket friendly whether its in a cutesy 50g tube that fits in my bag for all of my adventures or a 200g bottle suitable for my entire family.
Embrace the advantages of this dual skin care and let us know your thoughts, connect with us on our Instagram page for regular updates on the best of skin and hair care ingredients.