The pursuit of beauty is a path that has many twists and turns. It is incredible to know of the skin care obsession across the globe. It’s amazing to see the lengths people go to for the perfect peach n’ cream complexion. For some of us following a cleansing, toning, moisturizing and ‘sunscreening ‘ routine is a task in itself, there are a lucky few who leave no stone unturned taking care of their skin. This time around, I’m penning down some funny but interesting skin care rituals from across the globe.
Japan- When we speak of great skin Japanese women come to my mind first. What I wanted to know was that what did these women do to have such amazing, glowing skin? Since the Orient has a holistic approach to almost everything skin care was no different. But Tai chi and a great diet aside, the Japanese women have one secret that gives them that edge- nightingale dropping! Since ancient times, Japanese women have used products made out of nightingale droppings to maintain their silky porcelain skin. The nightingale facial, which is popular in spas worldwide, uses these droppings to make sure that dull skin is taken care of completely.
Egypt- Another funny skin care ritual follows us from Cleopatra’s land. All of us have heard of the legendary beauty, Cleopatra. Turns out, you have to pay quite a hefty price for such beauty. To begin with, start by soaking yourself in a tub full of goat milk and honey to feel like the Queen of the Nile. This soak is followed by a cleansing routine using natron (baking powder) and water.
Brazil- Spend a day on the sunny beaches of Brazil and you are left ogling at the shimmering Brazilian bodies. Apparently the secret behind the beauty of Brazilian women is beach sand and ground coffee. Coffee grounds work as great cellulite reducers. Beach sand when mixed with sun tan lotion works beautifully as a body scrub!
Spain- To get great conditioned skin and relieve stress I like what the Spaniards do. It’s all in a simple bath soak that combines sesame oil, cloves, cinnamon sticks, bay leaf and lastly a dash of good old rum! A couple of drops of this heady concoction go into the bath and both your spirits and skin feel elevated.
What is your funny and interesting skin care anecdote? Write in.