Vasudha Rai swears by this masoor dal DIY face mask for radiant skin

Vasudha Rai is an author and skin expert (Source: Vasudha Rai/Instagram)

Those who love DIYs in skincare are always looking at simple, safe, and homemade hacks that not only save you the cost but also effectively work for your skin.

One such hack that yoga expert and author Vasudha Rai swears by is the red lentils or masoor dal face pack that according to her is the “only DIY hack you need”. “That’s the only thing you need for exfoliation,” said Rai in a conversation with Mira Kapoor as part of Kapoor’s Skin and Within series on her YouTube channel

How to make the DIY face mask?

Ingredients

*Red lentils or masoor dal
*Water or raw milk
*Saffron strands, few

Method

*Soak overnight in water if you have oily skin
*If you have dry skin – soak it in milk with saffron strands
*The next day, grind the mixture and add some additional raw milk to it if you soaked it in water. If already soaked in milk, skip this step.
*Pat the mixture to your face.
*When semi-dry, rub it off your face in upward strokes.

Here’s how masoor dal helps (Source: Pexels)

How is it beneficial?

According to Dr Rinky Kapoor, consultant dermatologist, cosmetic dermatologist, and dermato-surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics, masoor dal is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals such as iron, which are essential for healthy skin. “Raw milk contains lactic acid, which gently exfoliates the skin, removes dead cells, and promotes cell renewal. On the other hand, saffron is prized for its antioxidant properties, which help combat free radicals and reduce inflammation, resulting in a radiant complexion,” said Dr Kapoor.

Combining these ingredients into a mask creates a potent skincare treatment, said Dr Kapoor. “Soaking the masoor dal overnight softens it, making it easier to grind into a smooth paste. This process also enhances the dal’s ability to release its nutrients, ensuring maximum benefits for the skin. The addition of raw milk not only acts as a medium for grinding but also provides moisture and nourishment to the skin. Meanwhile, saffron infuses the mask with its golden hue and therapeutic properties, enhancing its overall efficacy,” said Dr Kapoor.

Using soaked masoor dal in raw milk and saffron mask as a face pack, according to Dr Kapoor can provide various benefits for the skin:

1. Exfoliation: Masoor dal acts as a natural exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, leaving the skin smoother and more radiant.

2. Brightening: Saffron is known for its skin-brightening properties. When combined with masoor dal and raw milk, it can help to lighten dark spots, and pigmentation, and even out the skin tone.3. Hydration: Raw milk is rich in nutrients and hydrating properties, which can help to moisturise the skin and leave it feeling soft and supple.

4. Anti-inflammatory: Saffron has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness, inflammation, and irritation, making it beneficial for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Here’s a skincare hack you must try (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

5. Antioxidant effects: Both saffron and raw milk contain antioxidants that can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, thereby slowing down the ageing process and promoting healthier-looking skin.

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“Using this mask can help to improve the texture, tone, and overall appearance of the skin with regular use,” said Dr Kapoor.