Saffron: From acne to dark spots, here's how kumkumadi is at the heart of every skincare home remedy

Saffron health benefits: Saffron's antimicrobial properties, attributed to its components like crocin and safranal, make it effective in fighting acne-causing bacteria (Image: Canva)

Saffron is more than just a colouring agent in Indian dishes. It's a potent ayurvedic medicinal spice as well, with amazing health benefits for various conditions including convulsions, tumours, oxidative-related diseases, inflammation, memory impairments, or depression thanks to its powerful components -- anthocyanins, flavonoids, and terpenoids -- it comes loaded with.

Saffron is also great for your skin, as it has antioxidant, antimicrobial, depigmenting, and repairing properties. You can find this spice in many skincare products like lotions, creams, sunscreens, moisturisers, and anti-spot and anti-ageing formulations.

Here are 6 ways saffron can fight skin issues:

Relief from acne: Saffron's antimicrobial properties, attributed to its components like crocin and safranal, make it effective in fighting acne-causing bacteria. Its anti-inflammatory nature helps reduce redness and swelling associated with acne, promoting clearer skin.

Anti-ageing effects: Saffron's ability to stimulate collagen production plays a vital role in maintaining skin elasticity. Its antioxidants, such as crocetin, combat free radicals, prevent premature ageing, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Fades dark spots: Anthocyanin in saffron contributes to its skin-lightening capabilities and makes it a natural remedy for hyperpigmentation. Regular application may help fade dark spots and even out skin tone.

Combats irritation: Saffron's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities make it an ideal soother for irritated skin. Whether dealing with redness, itching, or mild irritation, using saffron in skincare routines helps to calm and restore the skin's balance.

Reduces puffiness: Saffron’s anti-inflammatory properties reduce puffiness, while its skin-lightening effects contribute to a brighter under-eye area. A saffron-infused solution can be gently applied to revitalise eyes.

Heals wound: Saffron's warm, orange hue promotes the regeneration of cells and speeds up the repair process, and helps in treating minor cuts, grazes, or skin abrasions. Its reparative actions, driven by components like crocin, enhance efficient wound healing.

Easy home recipes and remedies:

For a quick solution, mix a pinch of saffron with honey and a few drops of lemon juice to make a face mask. Apply this paste, leave it on for 15 minutes, and wash off for a refreshed and radiant glow. Also, a saffron-infused face mask, made by blending the spice with yoghurt and honey, serves as a gentle exfoliant, revealing a smoother texture. Lastly, a saffron-infused toner can be made by infusing the spice in rose water. This provides a refreshing and nourishing boost to the skin.