How To Use Tulsi In Your Postpartum Skincare Routine

In Sanskrit, Ayurveda transcribes to ‘the science of life’ and, by extension, beauty. This practice goes beyond borders and works from the inside out. Ayurvedic beauty ingredients are packed with the goodness of tried and tested herbs and spices, that bring out the best in our skin. 

During pregnancy, women experience a lot of physical changes such as pimples, pigmentation, acne, and hair fall. It’s common for you to experience these skin concerns during postpartum as well, however, by using Ayurvedic herbs, and following a good skincare routine, you can easily rejuvenate your skin. 

One such herbal ingredient that you can include in your postpartum skincare routine is Tulsi, also called Holy Basil. According to popular beliefs, tulsi helps in reducing skin inflammation, improving skin texture, and getting rid of acne.

But do keep in mind that tulsi is absolutely unsafe to consume during pregnancy. So if you are thinking about integrating this herbal ingredient into your skincare regimen, do it after childbirth.

Let’s dive into the facts and understand how tulsi can benefit your skin.

What is Tulsi?

Tulsi or Holy Basil is a perennial plant, native to the Indian subcontinent. It has been used in the Ayurvedic medicinal system for thousands of years for its healing properties. 

Tulsi is also an adaptogen, and helps with:

• Weight regulation
• Stress prevention and recovery
• Preventing exhaustion
• Supporting lung health and blood circulation

What Are The Benefits of Tulsi for Skin And Hair?

Many studies have established that tulsi offers several benefits for hair and skin. Some of which include:

• It Helps Fight Acne: Tulsi has antibacterial properties and can help reduce acne. A study posted in 2014 stated that there is experimental evidence that suggests that tulsi helps treat various bacterial infections, such as acne.

Acne is usually caused when the blocked hair follicles in the skin get infected with bacteria. Using antibacterial ingredients such as tulsi can help prevent such breakouts.

• It Reduces Pigmentation in The Skin: Tulsi also contains antioxidant properties that can help tackle pigmentation. However, there is no medical evidence to support this claim. 

Antioxidants usually reduce free radical production and combat oxidative stress. This can reduce pigmentation. Therefore, using antioxidant-rich ingredients such as tulsi can help combat UV rays and pollution, the two main causes of pigmentation.

• Soothes Skin Conditions Like Eczema: Tulsi’s anti-inflammatory actions help soothe dry skin conditions such as eczema. It also helps tackle itching, redness, swelling, and flare-ups.

• Supports Healthy Skin Ageing: A recent study highlighted that when applied topically, tulsi can also support healthy skin ageing. Its antioxidant properties prevent free radical damage and early signs of wrinkles and fine lines.

• It Prevents Dandruff And Hair Loss: Tulsi has antifungal properties that reduce dandruff. Moreover, its anti-inflammatory components stimulate the scalp, improve blood circulation and prevent hair loss and thinning.

How to Include Tulsi In Your Skincare Regimen?

There are several ways you can include tulsi in your skincare routine, according to your needs. You can:

• Use it in a facial mask
• As a facial cleanser
• Spot treatment
• A relaxing facial steam

DIY Tulsi Skincare Recipes

Get glowing and radiant skin post pregnancy with these DIY tulsi-infused facial masks and cleanser recipes. Before trying out these skincare recipes, we recommend you try a patch test using tulsi. In case you notice rashes or allergies, consult your doctor immediately. 

Tulsi Face Mask for Dry Skin

Ideal for dry skin, this facial mask can tackle your skincare woes and give you glowing skin.

You will need:

Ingredients:

1 tbsp powdered tulsi

1 tbsp of yoghurt

Directions for Applying:

• Wash your face and pat dry
• Apply the powdered tulsi and yoghurt mix to your face
• Leave it for 10-15 minutes
• Rinse with lukewarm water and moisturise with your face cream

Tulsi Face Mask for Oily Skin

It can help clear out pores, reduce inflammations, and prevent breakouts.

You will need:

Ingredients:

1 tbsp powdered tulsi

1 tbsp sandalwood powder

4 drops of jojoba oil

5 drops of rose water

Directions for Applying:

• Mix all the ingredients together and apply evenly to your neck and face
• Leave it for 20-30 minutes
• Rinse with lukewarm water
• Pat dry and moisturise with a non-sticky lotion

Tulsi And Neem Pack for Blemishes

Use this DIY recipe as a spot treatment for your blemishes.

You will need:

Ingredients:

1 tbsp dried neem leaves

1 tbsp dried tulsi leaves

A squeeze of lemon juice

Directions for Applying:

• Combine the ingredients with water to make a paste
• Add a few drops of lemon juice and apply to the affected areas
• Leave it for 15-20 minutes
• Rinse off with water and pat dry

DIY Tulsi Facial Steam

This relaxing steam will improve your skin texture, prevent breakouts, and help you unwind before bedtime, all at once.

You will need:

Ingredients:

A large bowl

1 cup of fresh tulsi leaves

5 cups of water

Directions for Applying:

• Wash your face with a cleanser and pat dry
• Mix the tulsi leaves in boiling water
• Cover your head with a towel and lean over the bowl for 5-10 mins
• Apply serum or moisturiser afterward

Are There Any Side Effects of Using Tulsi? 

Generally, tulsi is considered safe for most people. However, it’s best to avoid tulsi if:

• You are taking blood thinners
• You are preparing for surgery or recovering from one
• You are pregnant

Always consult your doctor before adding new herbs and supplements to your skincare and haircare routine, including tulsi. 

Apart from offering excellent skincare benefits, tulsi is an excellent herb that you can add to your postpartum hair care routine as well. Try the DIY tulsi recipes recommended to get acne-free and a radiant complexion.