Top 6 Moringa Benefits For The Skin, DIY Masks, & Who Can Use

Moringa, also known as Moringa oleifera, is a tree with edible leaves and fruits and is considered a superfood. However, you may be surprised to know that you can also use moringa for skin benefits. It is an extremely versatile tree whose parts are used for different purposes.

This tree is mainly found in Africa and India and helps treat malnutrition (1). Owing to its high nutritional benefits, it has become quite popular. You can consume it as well as use it on your skin. Moringa extract is natural and does not irritate the skin when used topically.

You can blend moringa leaves and prepare a thick paste. You may also buy moringa powders, capsules, and oils available on the market.

The pulp, powder, and oil can do wonders if applied to your skin. It has been used by the ancient Romans, Egyptians, and Greeks to protect the skin against sun and dust (2).

This article explores the benefits of moringa and how to use it on your skin for the best results. Keep reading to learn more.

Know Your Ingredient: Moringa

What Is It?
A fast-growing tree native to the Indian subcontinent with edible leaves and fruits.

What Are Its Benefits?
Rejuvenates the skin, reduces acne, shrinks pore size, fights signs of skin aging, and improves skin complexion.

Who Can Use It?
Suitable for use in general.

How Often?
Topically, once every 2-3 days.

Caution
Conduct a patch test before using it. Consult a doctor in case of an allergic reaction.

Benefits Of Moringa On Skin

1. May Fight Signs Of Premature Aging

With the stresses of life and bad environmental conditions, skin becomes crapy and develops wrinkles faster. Moringa can help prevent the early onset of wrinkles or age spots. It is rich in nutrients and antioxidants. The antioxidants help fight against the free radicals that could accelerate aging.

In addition, the sun’s UV rays account for almost 80% of the usual signs of skin aging (3). The anti-inflammatory benefits of moringa may also reduce the damage caused by UV radiation.

Moringa has more than 7 times the amount of vitamin C than an orange (4). Vitamin C is an active ingredient that helps manage collagen production in the body. This way, it may provide anti-aging benefits that help delay the onset of wrinkles and fine lines. Also, its essential fatty acid content provides moisturizing benefits.

2. May Help Fight Acne

Acne is caused when the tiny pores on the skin are blocked due to excess oil or dead skin. Moringa boasts strong anti-bacterial properties that help reduce acne breakouts. Excess oil is not the only cause of acne. Stress and acne have long since been linked (5). The anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties of moringa oil may also help fight acne (6).

Some believe those with dry skin may also benefit from moringa. Moringa is a natural humectant; it pulls moisture to the surface of the skin and gives a subtle natural glow.

3. May Help Shrink Pore Size

Large pores on the face make the skin look craggy and rough. The main cause of large pores can be traced to excess oil production. Large can genetic or caused by a loss of skin elasticity. due to chronic sun exposure.

Moringa is rich in vitamins A and C that are vital for collagen production in the body (7). Applying moringa oil, moringa paste, or even moringa powder to the skin may stabilize collagen on the face (8). It may also help shrink those pores.

4. May Help Improve Skin Complexion

Pollution, stress, and other factors may make your skin complexion dull. As per anecdotal evidence, moringa oil, moringa powder, or even fresh moringa ground to a textured paste may help restore your natural skin complexion. A study found that applying 3% moringa cream enhanced skin volume and texture and reduced wrinkles (9).

An application of moringa in any form  oil, powder, or paste can keep the skin soft and supple. Moringa may also help heal any wounds, cuts, or burns (10).

5. Cleanses And Rejuvenates Skin

In addition to pollution and stress, acne and other spots could appear on the skin if dirt accumulates on the surface. Even makeup that is not properly cleaned could lead to build-up.

Moringa is famous for its cleansing properties. Moringa oil, moringa powder, or fresh moringa paste may help remove the dirt accumulated on the skin. It is also believed that moringa can reach into the skin pores and cleanse skin deeply. However, more research is warranted to further understand this benefit of moringa.

6. May Help Manage Skin Allergies

Moringa’s potential for skin allergies is attributed to the essential amino acids it contains. They may support the repair and regeneration of damaged skin cells. Moreover, it contains phytonutrients, such as quercetin and oleic acid, which might contribute to its anti-allergic properties, potentially modulating immune responses to allergens (11). Its antimicrobial properties may combat skin infections associated with allergies, promoting healing. Moringa’s high vitamin E content may also help in maintaining skin health, enhancing moisture retention, and improving skin elasticity, alleviating dryness and itchiness (12). Additionally, its anti-inflammatory compounds may help reduce redness and swelling, providing relief from allergic symptoms. However, more research is required to establish its efficacy and safety for specific skin conditions.

Quick Tip

Since every part of a moringa tree is known to be beneficial to humans and animals, the tree is popularly known as a ‘miracle tree.’ It is also commonly called a ‘drumstick tree.’

In the following section, we will look at the process of making moringa powder/oil at home.

How To Make Moringa Powder/Oil At Home

You can get moringa oil or moringa powder readily in shops. Almost all of the products in the market are organic.

However, it is quite easy to make moringa powder and oil at home.

For the powder, start by sun-drying fresh moringa leaves. Once they have completely dehydrated, you can pulse the leaves in a grinder to get the fresh moringa powder.

Preparing moringa oil can consume a little more time:

• You will need the seeds of the moringa fruit (a drumstick).
• Separate the seeds from the pulp and wash them. Dry roast them in a pan till the seeds turn brown. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
• Blend the seeds to a fine powder in a dry grinder. Add the powdered seeds to a pot of boiling water.
• Keep boiling the water for about 20 minutes till you see a layer of oil floating on top of the water. Skim the oil and freeze to separate the oil from the water.

Here are a few DIY moringa masks that help you achieve clear and clean skin at home.

DIY Moringa Masks

1. Moringa Face Mask With Honey

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of moringa powder
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• Rosewater (if necessary)

Method

• Mix the moringa powder and honey to form a thick paste. If the paste is too loose, you can add a few pinches of moringa powder to get the right spreadable consistency.
• In case the paste is too thick, you can add a few drops of rosewater to dilute. The rosewater also adds to the rejuvenating properties of moringa.
• Apply the paste all over your face. Avoid applying over your eyes and nostrils.
• Let the mask sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Clean with lukewarm water.

This face mask helps reduce acne and cleanses the skin right down to the pores.

2. Moringa Leaves And Aloe Vera Cleanser

Ingredients

• A handful of moringa leaves
• 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel

Method

• Wash moringa leaves in water to remove any dirt.
• Blend to a thick paste in a grinder.
• Add aloe vera gel to the paste to achieve a spreadable consistency.
• Apply over the face and leave for a few minutes until the pack becomes dry.
• Wash with plain water. Dab with a clean towel to remove excess moisture from the face.

3. Moringa And Sugar Body Scrub

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of moringa powder
• 1 cup of finely granulated sugar/brown sugar
• 2 green tea bags
• 1 cup of hot water
• 2 tablespoons of coconut oil

Method

• Dip the tea bags in the cup of hot water. Allow the tea to steep. Once the water cools down, discard the teabags.
• Add the sugar, moringa powder, and coconut oil and mix well. Ensure the mixture is well combined. The mixture should neither be too dry nor too wet. The consistency should resemble wet sand. Add coconut oil or sugar to adjust the texture accordingly.
• Use the scrub twice or thrice a week. The ingredients in the scrub help remove dead cells and rejuvenate the skin.

A blogger shared her experience trying a DIY moringa mask for blackheads. She writes, “When I peeled it off my skin looked amazing. It was so soft and smooth! I must say it did a great job of removing those pesky little blackheads. It left my skin feeling clean, my pores were unclogged and slightly smaller. My skin was left matte and shine free (i)!”

While moringa benefits the skin and using these masks may help, there are some side effects you should know about. We will explore the same in the next section.

Side Effects Of Using Moringa

Topical application of moringa (in its various forms) is largely considered safe. That said, perform a patch test on a very small area before using moringa on your skin. Also, be mindful of the concentration or quantity of moringa. It is best to use moringa extract in low quantity. Consult your doctor if you experience any adverse reactions.

Consumption of moringa may lower blood pressure (13). It could cause issues in those already on medications for lowering blood pressure.

Moringa may also cause uterine contractions (14).

Some believe intake of moringa may also impact fertility. However, research is limited in this regard. Stay safe and avoid use.

Who Can Use Moringa?

Although there may be restrictions on who may consume moringa, almost all can use it on the skin. Just be wary of any allergic reactions. Remember to do a patch test before using it on the skin.

How Frequently Can You Use Moringa On Skin?

You can use moringa in your skincare routines quite frequently. However, like with any scrub or mask, there should be at least a day’s gap before application. There are no age restrictions for using moringa. However, its use is not recommended on children as they have sensitive skin.

Infographic: Interesting Facts About Moringa

Moringa’s most well-known facts usually revolve around its culinary and skin advantages. However, did you know that it is an incredibly versatile tree whose parts are utilized for a variety of purposes? Check out the infographic below for some moringa facts you may not be aware of!

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Did You Know?

Moringa is a drought-resistant tree and belongs to the Moringaceae family of trees.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does moringa take to start working?

Moringa can take a few weeks to three months to produce any results.

Can moringa heal stretch marks?

Yes, you can apply moringa oil to your skin during and after pregnancy to increase skin suppleness and heal stretch marks and scarring. There is, however, no scientific evidence to support this claim.

Is moringa good for pigmentation?

Yes, it has vitamins A and C that help stimulate collagen production. It also helps in skin rejuvenation (7).

Which moringa body scrub removes tan?

The moringa body scrub discussed in this article may help remove tan. It has sugar granules that help remove dead skin cells, while the moringa extract improves skin complexion.

Is moringa butter good for the skin?

Since it is obtained from moringa seed oil, it may also have beneficial effects on the skin. Anecdotal evidence suggests that moringa butter can be a good option for skin moisturization and treatment of inflammatory skin conditions.

Can you mix moringa oil with shea butter?

Yes, you can prepare hair butter with moringa oil and shea butter. Applying this may help improve the shine and strength of the hair.

How do you use moringa body lotion?

Apply a moringa body lotion after showering. Squeeze the desired amount of the body lotion into your hands and apply it all over the body. Let it absorb.

Illustration: Moringa Benefits For The Skin DIY Masks & Who Can Use

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

From boosting immunity to improving skin health, moringa is a superfood with many hidden benefits. Learn more about the amazing benefits of these leaves by checking out the video below!

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Dr. Robert S. BaderMD

   

Dr. Robert S. Bader is an Ivy League-trained physician and surgeon who is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon with 22 years of experience. Aside from having training in internal medicine and dermatology, he completed a fully accredited fellowship in cosmetic surgery under the auspices of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery.

Read full bio of Dr. Robert S. Bader

Arshiya SyedaCo-Editor-in-Chief

 

Arshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.

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Ramona SinhaEditor

Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.

Read full bio of Ramona Sinha

Swathi ESenior Beauty & Lifestyle Writer

Swathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach.

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