Cinnamon, the aromatic spice that adds a sweet flavour to your favourite baked goodies, is also a potent ingredient in skincare. It has a wide range of skin benefits, thanks to its natural antiseptic and antibiotic properties. It also contains an effective antioxidant that protects you against free radical damage, and can help you achieve a flawless and youthful-looking complexion.
It is full of Vitamin C, which helps promote healthy cell growth and fight against environmental toxins that can cause fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Moreover, it is an excellent moisturizer and can help lock in essential moisture to keep your skin soft, smooth and hydrated. It is also packed with polyphenols, which are known to provide protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays and inhibit free radical damage to the skin.
If you have a dull-looking complexion, cinnamon can give it a natural glow. The cinnamaldehyde in the spice has been shown to increase collagen levels, which is beneficial for reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It also has antioxidant properties that help combat free radicals, which can lead to the breakdown of collagen and speed up aging.
The cinnamon skin effect is also effective in reducing dark spots and blemishes. The antiseptic and antibiotic properties of the spice help treat infections and bacterial or fungal conditions that can lead to redness, itching or rash. It can also be used as a spot treatment to treat acne or psoriasis.
Using cinnamon in the form of a paste or scrub is a great way to boost blood circulation and improve your skin tone. One teaspoon of cinnamon powder along with two tablespoons of olive oil can be massaged on the face to make it look hydrated and brighter. You can also make a face mask by mixing a teaspoon of yoghurt, one teaspoon honey and ground cinnamon. Apply this on your face and leave it until it dries, then rinse it with water.
Another benefit of cinnamon is that it can relieve itchiness and flakiness associated with eczema. In fact, a combination of cinnamon and honey is a popular remedy to get rid of eczema flare-ups. It is a good idea to consult your doctor before trying any home remedies for eczema as it may not be suitable for all skin types.
In a lab study, Ceylon cinnamon was found to be effective in increasing collagen synthesis in human skin cells. This is because the cinnamaldehyde it contains is a natural collagen inducer and prevents the breakdown of collagen, which can result in septic shock and multi-organ failure. Alternatively, you can try a face mask consisting of banana puree, yoghurt and cinnamon powder to get the same results. You can also use a face spritz made with cinnamon oil and witch hazel to refresh the skin. However, before using any products containing cinnamon, it is best to conduct a patch test on your inner forearm and wait a day or two to see if you have any adverse reactions to the product.