Wonders of Saffron for the skin

 “Saffron, the most expensive Ayurvedic spice around the world”

Saffron also known as “Kesar” is a very rare and the costliest Ayurvedic spice in the world. Saffron is actually the small stigmas of the iris-family flower “crocus sativus”. Saffron is a vivid crimson spice derived from the Saffron crocus plant and is believed to have originated in Greece.

Our Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi advised everyone last year in 2020 to buy locally farmed Kashmiri Saffron, emphasizing its numerous therapeutic benefits such as back discomfort, wounds, and abscesses. 

Saffron is commonly used in cooking to give meals a brilliant yellow-orange hue, but it is also utilized in fabric dyes and fragrances across the world. But did you know it also offers a plethora of aesthetic benefits? In addition to being used to flavor a variety of unique delights, it is also used as a nourishing ingredient for the skin to make it soft and supple.

Another reason for its exorbitant price? The plant may only be plucked twice a year, and each saffron bloom must be selected.

Saffron at a glance

• INGREDIENT CLASSIFICATION: Antioxidant

• MAIN BENEFITS: Reduces inflammation, brightens skin, decreases hyperpigmentation, and protects against UV radiation.

• THOSE WHO SHOULD USE IT: Saffron is good for all skin types, although it is especially beneficial to sensitive skin.

• HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU USE IT: It is safe to use up to twice per day.

• WORK WONDERS WHEN COMBINED WITH: Hyaluronic Acid, Omega Oils, and Flower Extracts.

• DON'T USE WITH: Saffron is generally safe to use with most (if not all) skincare products.

Skin-boosting benefits of Saffron for the Skin

• A potent antioxidant

Saffron is high in antioxidants, including vitamin C, and it also possesses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. In addition, being a powerful antioxidant, Saffron protects the skin against the harmful UV rays that can cause wrinkles, premature aging, etc.

• Cures wounds, cuts, and bruises

Advanced research indicates that Saffron has the ability to enhance cell turnover and production, which may help wounds heal quicker.

• Gives you a radiant look

Saffron, as an antioxidant, brightens the skin giving you a dewy and lustrous look without having any negative side effects. Saffron is a proven soothing spice with excellent beautifying properties.

• Reduces inflammation

Saffron's therapeutic properties may aid in the treatment of redness, irritated skin, and even acne.

• Hyperpigmentation is reduced

Because of its high vitamin potency, Saffron not only illuminates skin tone but also improves and eliminates unsightly hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and skin blemishes when applied topically.

• Helps skin recover from environmental stressors

Saffron is rich in minerals and contains two types of powerful carotenoids: crocin and crocetin which are known to repair and ensure overall cellular health so as to keep the skin free from infections and damage.

• Great for sensitive skin

Being an anti-inflammatory ingredient, Saffron possesses the quality to soothe irritated skin.

Side Effects of Saffron

Saffron in general is absolutely safe for the skin and does not cause any skin-related problems or adverse effects. But to be on the safer side, it's important to patch test every new skincare product or component before using it on your skin.

How to Use It

You'll find Saffron incorporated into a wide range of products, from masks to cleansers to serums and more, but experts say you'll get the greatest benefit if you leave it on for a few minutes like a DIY mask or use it as a face scrub.

Given its rarity and miraculous properties, Saffron is most commonly found in skincare products that are applied to the skin and left on to encourage continuous healing. It would be too expensive, and possibly a little wasteful, to use it in a cleanser because it wouldn't stay on the skin long enough to have the full benefit.

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Takeaway

Saffron can help you improve your skincare routine. Its active ingredients fight inflammation, hyperpigmentation, and UV radiation. It also provides UV protection, which is a common cause of premature skin aging.

If this is your first time working with saffron, proceed with caution. Because an allergic reaction is possible, a patch test should be performed beforehand. If you're pregnant, avoid saffron.

Saffron can be used to make homemade moisturizers, masks, and other beauty products. Alternatively, you can find saffron skincare products in pharmacies or health food stores.