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Before the emergence of factory made beauty products, different cultures all over the world had their staple beauty regimes that they used to maintain their skin. We will be looking at some of the ancient African beauty rituals that were used to maintain the skin and tackle skin irritation.
Zimbabwe Okra face masks
Okra is know for the high level of antioxidants, vitamins and other nutritious benefits. Zimbabwean women would make a face mask from Okra, one that promises to leave the skin soft and hydrated.
They boil the Okra until the texture becomes soft, mash it into a paste and apply it on their face as a mask for about 5 minutes before washing it off.
Moroccan Argan Oil
Before the popularity of the wonders of Argan oil in recent times, Dating back to 3000 years ago, Moroccans have been using Argan oil to maintain the flawless skin they are know for till date. Ancient Moroccan women have used this essential oil regularly on their nails, hair and body. Argan oil contains fatty acids, High level of vitamin E, that leaves the skin hydrated, and soft. This essential oil can also be used to treat mild skin irritation, bug bites and rash.
Nara seed and Baobab oil in Namibia
The Nara seed oil has been used by the Topnar people of Namibia for a long time to protect their skin from the harsh weather. The oil is extracted from the seed of these plants and used on the skin, for a rich and moisturized skin. It can also be used to treat mild skin problems like eczema and skin irritation.
The Himba people of Namibia are also famous for making a mixture out of butterfat and Orche pigments to cleanse and protect the skin over a long period of time.
Ethiopian Qasil
Qasil is an ancient Leaf powder used as an exfoliating face mask by Ethiopian women. The Qasil powder is said to improve the skin complexion, combat acne, and moisturize the skin. It can also be used to treat dandruff on the hair.
Sudanese Dukhan.
The Sudanese Dukhan beauty regime is one of the most famous beauty secrets of this African country. The Dukhan is usually done for brides to be about a week before the wedding. According to tradition, the bride has to seat in a smoke bath of acacia wood, twice a day for a week without having a bath. The smoke and oil would have formed a layer on her skin, which is then peeled off on the last day and brides skin will be left glowing and radiant.
