Hibiscus Benefits for Skin: How to Use and Side Effects

  • Top 4 Benefits Of Hibiscus For Glowing Skin
  • How Do You Use Hibiscus For Skin Lightening?
  • Side Effects Of Hibiscus

Top 4 Benefits Of Hibiscus For Glowing Skin

1. Acts As A Natural Antioxidant

Hibiscus extract acts as a natural antioxidant. It can maintain collagen production and decrease melanin synthesis that happens due to overexposure to UVB radiation (3). In simpler words, it can delay the signs of aging otherwise caused due to exposure to UV rays and excess pollution.

2. May Aid In Wound Healing

Hibiscus may enhance the skin’s healing potential by accelerating the wound healing process. It also stimulates skin regeneration and hydration. It achieves this by promoting the spread of keratinocytes (the major cell type of the epidermis) (4).

3. May Help Tighten The Skin

The antioxidant- and vitamin C-rich hibiscus may boost healthy collagen production levels and make the skin firmer. This property can help those with hyperpigmentation. Hibiscus is also rich in a compound called myricetin that may slow down collagen degradation (5). Some believe that hibiscus may be a natural alternative to botox treatment. You can apply a mixture of hibiscus powder and avocado oil to your skin to restore skin elasticity and reverse the signs of premature aging.

4. May Ease Skin Inflammation

Hibiscus contains antioxidants called anthocyanins that lend the flower its pinkish-red hue. They also are responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties (6). They may help reduce oxidative stress and associated skin inflammation.

These are the few important benefits of hibiscus for skin care. However, more research is needed to understand if the flower has any other skin benefits. How can you use hibiscus for better skin health? We have listed below a few important DIY recipes that can help.

How Do You Use Hibiscus For Skin Lightening?

DIY Recipe 1: Hibiscus For Acne

This hibiscus face mask helps treat acne and tones your skin. It also may help cleanse and exfoliate your skin. However, skip the lemon juice if you have sensitive skin.

Ingredients

  • Hibiscus powder – 2 teaspoons
  • Aloe vera gel or yogurt – 1 tablespoon (you may also take ½ a tablespoon of each)
  • Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon

Method

Step 1: Mix the aloe vera gel or yogurt with the hibiscus powder.Step 2: Add a few drops of lemon juice (if you do not have sensitive skin).Step 3: Mix to form a thick paste.Step 4: Apply to your face and neck and leave it on for about 30 minutes.

You can apply this face mask every day for a month to reduce acne and rejuvenate your skin from within.

DIY Recipe 2: Hibiscus For Moisturizing Your Skin

Ingredients

  • Dried hibiscus petal powder made from 20 to 30 petals
  • Olive or almond oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Few pieces of saffron strands
  • Aloe vera gel – 1 tablespoon
  • Muslin cloth

Method

Step 1: Add the olive or almond oil to the dried hibiscus petalsStep 2: Grind the mixture.Step 3: Place the mixture in the microwave for about 2 to 3 minutes.Step 4: Transfer the mixture to a piece of muslin cloth and squeeze the oil into a small bowl.Step 5: Add a few strands of saffron and aloe vera gel to the oil and mix well till you get a smooth paste. Your DIY hibiscus moisturizer is ready.

DIY Recipe 3: Hibiscus Water For Your Skin

Hibiscus water can exfoliate your skin, draw out toxins and excess oils, and smoothen skin.

Ingredients

  • Hibiscus flower powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Multani mitti (fuller’s earth) – 1 teaspoon
  • Rosewater – 1 ½ tablespoons

Method

Step 1: Mix the fuller’s earth, rose water, and hibiscus powder to create a thick paste.Step 2: Apply the paste all over the face.Step 3: Let it sit for about 20 minutes before you wipe it off with a damp cotton ball.

DIY Recipe 4: Hibiscus Scrub For Skin

As mentioned earlier, hibiscus can act as a natural exfoliator. Try this softening and hydrating scrub to remove dead skin cells and prevent acne breakouts.

Ingredients

  • Sugar granules – 1 teaspoon
  • Honey – 1 teaspoon
  • Hibiscus powder – 1 teaspoon

Method

Step 1: Mix the granular sugar, honey, and hibiscus powder.Step 2: Gently apply the scrub to damp skin while you are in the shower.Step 3: Massage in circular motions for about 5 minutes and rinse with cool water.

DIY Recipe 5: Hibiscus Lip Balm

The hibiscus lip balm can remove the d#ead skin cells and make your lips look plump and pink.

Learn more

Ingredients

  • Hibiscus flower – 6 to 8 petals
  • Coconut oil – 1 teaspoon

Method

Step 1: Crush the 6 to 8 petals of the hibiscus flower to get a fine powder.Step 2: Add a teaspoon of coconut oil to it.Step 3: Apply the mixture to your lips as and when required.

DIY Recipe 6: Hibiscus Tea

Nothing enriches your mind and body as a hibiscus tea after a long day. Taking the tea may also promote skin health from within.

Ingredients

  • Dried hibiscus flowers – ½ a cup
  • Water – 8 cups
  • Honey – ¼ cup
  • Fresh lime juice – 3 tablespoons

Method

Step 1: Add the dried hibiscus flowers and water to a large pot and bring to a boil.Step 2: Once the water starts boiling, switch off the flame and cover the vessel.Note: You can add other herbs of your choice – including basil, lemongrass, lemon zest, mint, etc.Step 3: Let the tea steep for about 15 to 20 minutes.Step 4: Mix in the honey and lime juice until they dissolve completely.Step 5: Strain the tea.Step 6: Consume it warm or chilled.

Including hibiscus in your skin care routine is quite simple. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that it may also cause side effects. Be wary about them before using the flower.

Takeaway

Hibiscus may offer important skin benefits. It may reduce premature signs of skin aging, offer natural exfoliation, and boost skin glow. You may consume it as tea or apply it topically in the form of face masks, lip or body scrubs, and moisturizers.

However, be wary of its adverse effects too. Do a patch test before using it on your skin. You may use it every day if you experience no adverse reactions. Regular use can keep your skin radiant and glowing.

Expert’s Answers For Readers’ Questions

Is it safe to drink hibiscus tea every day?

Yes, you can consume hibiscus tea every day, albeit in moderate amounts. Excess intake may cause stomach upset, gas, or constipation.

What color hibiscus is good for the skin?

Red-colored hibiscus flowers are thought to offer maximum skin benefits. However, research is limited in this regard.

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