THANAKA → BURMESE BEAUTY SECRET

Thanaka – Discover the ancient beauty secret that has stood the test of time – Thanaka. Hailing from the heart of Myanmar, this natural skincare secret has been cherished for centuries for its remarkable benefits. From its distinctive fragrance to its unique skincare properties, Thanaka has become a staple in beauty routines for Burmese women. Let’s delve into the secrets of this extraordinary botanical gem and explore how it can transform your skincare regimen.

Thanaka is easily visible if you just walk outside in the streets of anywhere in Myanmar. As soon as you walk outside, you will soon cross with pretty much any woman whose face is covered with a traditionally made white powdery skin-care known as Thanaka / Tanaka powder. Many locals believe it as a sun protection or a beauty make up that is a mix-up of a creamy white goldfish natural paste.

Burmese not only regard Thanaka powder as a method for their beauty but also a natural remedy for keeping their skin soft and durable under the tropical strong sun. If there is one thing that makes you instantly recognize Myanmar, it is undoubtedly the thanaka, a sort of make-up worn by the women and children of Burma since 2000 years ago which makes it somehow become a symbol of the nation.

One of the many surprises that every traveler encounters during their holiday in Myanmar is to verify that all the women have their faces covered with a yellowish paste, name Tanaka. Burmese have been using this natural product for more than a thousand years and it is not surprising that the tradition continues since the science-proven benefits of this remedy are countless.

What are the ingredients in Thanaka?

Derived from the bark of the Thanaka tree (Hesperethusa crenulata), this yellowish-white paste has been used by Burmese women for generations. The paste is created by grinding the bark on a circular stone slab called “Kyauk Pyin,” mixing it with a bit of water. The result is a fragrant and cooling paste that has been revered for its cosmetic and medicinal properties.

Basically from the Thanaka Tree – Burmese make Thanaka powder from obtaining the bark of the jasmine orange tree (Limonia acidissima), another exotic tree from Southeast Asia, the Thanaka is best made of trees that are at least 35 years old, although with specimens of more than two years old, it can already be make the Thanaka. Mixing this product with water is how the yellowish powder is obtained; So simple, healthy, economical, natural and effective that it is not surprising when all women and children in Myanmar make use of Thanaka powder as well as many men and it also smells great with touches similar to sandalwood. Seeing all these it is not surprising that it is considered as one of the healthiest and most beneficial natural cosmetics that exist.

The Origin Of Thanaka

Thanaka first was mentioned by King Razadarit of Burma dating back to early 14th century and also, later have been recognized as a beauty secret of Burmese by the holy monk named poet Shin Maharatthasara. As you know, Thanaka has been used by the people of Burma since centuries ago making it one of the most famous and longing form of beauty treatments using natural ingredients from the root of the Tanaka tree.

Locals use Thanaka, a light yellowish- white powder, as a cosmetic paste that is usually applied to the face and body of most Burmese people. It is used by both men and women of all ages, including children. The thanaka Myanmar is obtained by grinding the bark of the thanaka tree with a little water. It is ground into a circular stone called a kyauk pin that has a channel around it that serves to drain the water. The thanaka tree grows abundantly throughout central Burma. In its solid state, the wood of this tree is sold in logs, never in the form of paste or powder.

For centuries, Thanaka has been a prominent part of the daily routine for every Burmese women. The Tanaka has a fragrance similar to that of sandalwood. It is applied to the face making attractive designs; the most popular is a circular design placed on each cheek.

The cream can also be applied to the entire body and not only to the face. In addition to being used as a cosmetic, thanaka provides protection from the sun’s rays. Most women and children use thanaka, an aromatic paste made from the bark of the tree of the same name and used as makeup and skin treatment. In addition to being refreshing, this paste is a very effective sunscreen.

According to Burmese, applying Thanaka powder, help to get a healthier, silkier skin and surprisingly removing the acnes from the face by circulating the blood in the blood cells. Also, Tanaka is unbelievably protect skin from the sunburn. One Burmese have told me, people in Myanmar use Thanaka since the early age and we all know that this natural remedy had a lot of good health benefit for our skin such as sunscreen, makeup and beauty, skincare for both day and night.

Thanaka’s paste made by rubbing a piece of damp from the root of the Thanaka tree (At least 35 years old tree) on a stone called Kyauk Pyin. Burmese people have used it for thousands of years to decorate their face and body and add properties to their skin. It is mainly used as a sunscreen but has many other uses:

Skin refresher
Anti-acne
Antiseptic
Moisturizing
Regulates fat
Reduces skin blemishes
Cleaner
Reduces marks and scars
Anti-aging
Antioxidant

Thanaka is renowned for its natural sun-blocking properties. Packed with compounds that act as a physical sunblock, it shields the skin from harmful UV rays, preventing sun damage and premature aging. In addition, it also helps for Skin Cooling by application of Thanaka paste imparts a cooling sensation on the skin, making it a popular choice in tropical climates. It soothes irritated skin, reduces inflammation, and provides relief from the heat.

The Cultural Significance: Why Burmese Embrace Thanaka

In the heart of Myanmar, a tradition as old as time itself continues to thrive – the use of Thanaka. This unique practice involves applying a paste made from ground bark on the face, creating intricate patterns that not only serve as a form of skincare but also hold deep cultural significance. In this article, we delve into the roots of this age-old tradition and explore the reasons why the Burmese people have embraced Thanaka for centuries.

Historical Roots f using Thanaka

The use of Thanaka can be traced back over 2,000 years to the ancient Pyu civilization. Since then, it has become an integral part of Burmese culture, symbolizing beauty, tradition, and a connection to the land. The unique yellowish-white patterns on the faces of Burmese people stand as a testament to the rich history and heritage of the region.

Natural Skincare

Thanaka is not just a cosmetic choice; it also serves practical purposes. Derived from the bark of the Thanaka tree (Limonia acidissima), the paste acts as a natural sunscreen, protecting the skin from the harsh rays of the sun. The antimicrobial properties of Thanaka help prevent acne and other skin conditions, making it a preferred choice for skincare in Myanmar’s hot and humid climate.

Cultural Identity

Thanaka is more than just a beauty regimen; it is a symbol of cultural identity for the Burmese people. Applying Thanaka is a daily ritual for many, and the distinctive patterns on the face create a sense of belonging and pride. The practice is passed down through generations, reinforcing the bond between the people and their cultural heritage.

Community Bonding

The communal aspect of applying Thanaka enhances the social fabric of Burmese society. Families and communities come together during the preparation and application process, fostering a sense of unity and shared tradition. It’s a way for the Burmese people to connect with one another and celebrate their cultural roots.

Spiritual Significance

Beyond its practical uses, Thanaka also holds spiritual significance. Many Burmese people believe that the application of Thanaka helps to cool the body and soothe the mind. The pleasant fragrance of the paste is associated with a sense of calm and tranquility, contributing to the spiritual well-being of those who use it.

Thanaka is a traditional cosmetic paste made from ground bark, primarily used in Myanmar (Burma) for both cosmetic and skincare purposes. If you’re looking to buy Thanaka, you can explore the following options:

Local Markets in Myanmar → Thanaka is widely available in local markets throughout Myanmar. If you happen to be in the country, you can find it in various forms, including as a paste, powder, or in traditional logs.

Specialty Stores → Some specialty stores or beauty shops that focus on natural or traditional skincare products may carry Thanaka. These stores can be found in regions with a significant population of people from Myanmar or other Southeast Asian countries.

Online Retailers → There are several online retailers that specialize in international products, including those from Southeast Asia. Websites like Amazon, eBay, or other niche beauty and skincare platforms may offer Thanaka products.

Myanmar-based Online Stores → Some online stores based in Myanmar may ship Thanaka internationally. Check with reputable Myanmar-based online retailers to see if they can ship the product to your location.

Ethnic Grocery Stores → In areas with a significant population of people from Southeast Asia, you might find ethnic grocery stores that carry traditional products, including Thanaka.

Pictures & Video of Thanaka in daily life of Burmese

Myanmar’s Thanaka is always a great gift for anyone visiting the land of the sacred golden pagodas, if you buy them as a wooden blocks, you will have them stored for long time, but I advice you to get tanaka as a gift in powder and mix them with water or rose water and olive oil and apply the powder in your face or skin.