Shesha Ayurveda Kasturi Majal (Musk Turmeric Powder)
Written by: Swati on:
Do you remember the time I shared my 2020 Skincare Favourites? It had featured the Shesha Ayurveda White Kasturi Manjal/Musk Turmeric (20% off with code SWATI) and I had promised I would talk about it in detail soon. Last week I realized that 2021 is close to being over....it would be shameful if I didn't get this post up before that. So here I am talking about one of my favourite finds of 2020. Read on!
While I have used kasturi manjal/turmeric in my homemade face masks and ubtans since my teenage years, I hadn't tried out the White/Musk turmeric variety until last year. The thing with the yellow kasturi manjal is that it is a very potent ingredient. Some people, especially those with sensitive skin might feel slight tingling or stinging - which is why we need to be cautious and only use a pinch. Additionally, it also leaves a temporary mild yellow stain on the skin.
So when Shesha Ayurveda launched their white turmeric, I just had to try it out. The description and properties listed on their website sounded perfect to me :
This original white wild turmeric powder/Kasturi Turmeric/Musk Turmeric or Curcuma Aromatica is extremely rare and is handpicked from organic farms of Western Ghats of Kerala, shade-dried and finely milled to perfection. It has a cream/ivory color and it gives an instant cooling sensation from first use itself. It causes no burning sensation and gives a cooling effect to skin.
Kasturi Manjal has a unique and natural uplifting aroma. It has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammation properties which are proven to fight against acne causing bacteria. The antioxidant properties of wild turmeric help in preserving your skin against the harmful UV rays of the sun and helps rejuvenate your skin. Removes dead skin cells and deep cleanse your skin pores and provides natural radiance and glow to the skin.
You can observe increased skin luminosity with regular use and give natural glow to your face and skin. Removes unwanted facial hair naturally. Improves skin luminosity with regular use.
This original white wild turmeric powder/Kasturi turmeric/musk turmeric or curcuma aromatica is extremely rare and is handpicked from organic farms of Western Ghats of Kerala.
- It has a cream/light brown color and it gives an instant cooling sensation from first use itself.
- It’s scientific name is curcuma aromatica
- It’s not the same as poolankilangu / mango turmeric or white turmeric or amba haldi or curcuma zedoaria.
It has a faint camphor smell and strong musk aroma to it. - It causes no burning sensation and gives a cooling effect to skin.
- This doesn’t leave any stain unlike the yellow variant and has a natural musk and camphor smell to it.
- Helps to reduce acne, blemishes, pigmentation, stretch marks etc. with regular use.
- Use it alone as a face pack regularly for a healthy and naturally glowing complexion.
- Can be used for all skin types even for sensitive, dry and combination skin.
The cream coloured powder comes in a sturdy plastic jar with a tight lid inside to keep the powder from spilling and safe from moisture.
It is finely milled & soft with no harsh granules and has a very aromatic camphor fragrance. I absolutely love the scent! It feels calming & therapeutic and gives me a beautiful sensorial experience (it could be strong for sensitive noses).
How do I use it? How often?
I like to mix the Kasturi Manjal with rose water (it can even be mixed with milk, curd, honey or aloe gel depending on your skin type and preference.... I have also mixed it with filtered water a few times). I apply it all over the face (skipping my upper lip area as I have perioral dermatitis) & neck. It can be used on targeted areas too.
I prefer using it once a week, keep it on till it is about 80% dry, dampen it with water again and take it off using very gentle circular motions. This provides gentle physical exfoliation too, which I like. If I have any active breakouts, I wash off without any rubbing and follow it up with my usual skincare routine.
What does it do for me?
- It provides an instant cooling sensation that feels amazing especially in the hot summer months.
- It reduces sebum & oil and gives my skin a fresh smooth feel.
- My pores look more refined and the skin looks brighter (although both these effects are temporary).
- Since my breakouts are mostly hormonal a face mask cannot work on preventing/reducing them. However, it does help in reducing the inflammation on the skin and since it also acts as a gentle physical exfoliator, it contributes to reducing the post breakout pigmentation slightly - with consistent use.
I did not face any burning or stinging with the White Kasturi Majal and it will suit all skin types (unless you are allergic to the ingredient). Please do a patch test nevertheless. It also doesn't stain the skin yellow, which is a bonus!
* For reference: I have combination skin that is slightly sensitive, prone to congestion & comedones. I get breakouts often (mostly hormonal) and it leaves a pigmented (PIE & PIH) mark every time.
- Make sure to store the jar properly - Keep it in a cool dark place, away from humidity and moisture. Do not store it on your bathroom shelf and be careful not to contaminate it with moisture/water while taking the powder out. Use a clean dry spoon. I make sure to store it properly and haven't experienced any problems so far.
Since the powder does not have any preservatives, it is recommended to finish it within 3 months of opening.
Price : 799 INR for 50g & 399 INR for 25g ( available here - 20% off with code SWATI )
I haven't found any cons so far. The brand recently came out with a smaller size which is great if you are unsure. Will I repurchase it? Yes! I am halfway on my second tub and will get another one once this is over. I really like it! I've made Smriti & mom buy it too :)
xoxo,
Swati
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