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AllAyurvedics
Skin10 min

Manjistha and Sandalwood Paste for Pimple Marks

A thin dab of manjistha and sandalwood paste on old, flat pimple marks a few nights a week. Patience and sunscreen matter most.

Illustrated still life with sandalwood, rose water.

Manjistha in everyday Indian homes

Manjistha (Indian madder) is a red root that Ayurveda uses for skin and as a blood-purifying herb. At home it is mostly used as a powder in face packs; it tints skin slightly pink.

Both manjistha and sandalwood are traditional skin-brightening herbs in Ayurveda. Used gently on marks left behind after pimples heal, they may help a little over weeks, but daily sunscreen does the most to fade marks.

Ingredients

  • ¼ tsp manjistha powder
  • ¼ tsp sandalwood powder
  • Rose water or raw milk

How to prepare

  1. Mix into a thin paste.

How to use

  • Dab on flat marks, not on active pimples, for 15 minutes.
  • Rinse and use three nights a week.

Helpful habits

  • Manjistha powder should be reddish-brown with an earthy smell.

Precautions

  • Do not use on open, inflamed pimples.
  • Taking manjistha by mouth is for a vaidya to advise, not self-use; it can colour urine red.
  • Patch-test on the inner arm 24 hours before using on the face.
  • Stop if you notice itching, rash, stomach upset or any other discomfort.

Frequently asked questions

How long before marks fade?

Often several weeks to months; dark marks fade slowly.

Can I leave it overnight?

No, 15 minutes is enough.

Will manjistha stain my face?

It can leave a light pink tint that washes off in a rinse or two.