Desi Cosmetics as the name suggests, are those cosmetic products, which are made by our mothers, grandmothers, and old people using natural ingredients with little or no use of chemical processing.

Most of the desi cosmetic products are only used by people in their homes. Some are created by using simple oils, and others may have complex formulations with ingredients like curd, besan, etc.

India is a land of diverse cultures, while the world is moving towards so many innovations, we have core values and traditions, which connect us to the Indian Heritage.

This can be seen in the beauty industry as well. While we use several cosmetics products, that are specifically made up of chemicals, we also manage to use several homegrown desi formulations.

These homegrown desi cosmetic formulations can directly match the efficiency of high-end luxury brand's range.

What is the hype about homegrown desi cosmetic products?
While homegrown desi cosmetic products help many people across India, several people around the world also keep on using simple formulations to keep their skin and hair in the best possible health.

What is the shelf-life of homegrown desi cosmetic formulations?
The shelf-life of homegrown desi cosmetic products may vary as per the ingredients used. Some of the products, which are made specifically made with oils, can last up to 2 to 3 years, and on the other hand, something that is made using curd and besan may last for a day or two only.

Are homegrown desi cosmetics safe to use?
Most of the time, when we use homegrown desi cosmetics, those have formulations from our ancestors or old people who have tested and tried so many formulations, therefore, many times those don't have any side effects.

And because the ingredients used are all-natural, hence it never really becomes an issue. But one should be aware of allergies, because people can have allergies from natural products also, hence before using the products, check the allergic reactions, the ingredients can cause.

What are some examples of homegrown desi cosmetics?
There are several desi cosmetics that are made in everyone's home, some of which, I am giving below;

1. Besan, Curd & Haldi Face Pack: This is a face pack made with Chickpea flour, curd, and turmeric. Formulations may vary as per the required activeness required, but usually have a ratio of 2:3:1, where 2 spoons of Besan are mixed with 3 spoons of curd and 1 spoon of turmeric powder.

• This face pack is usually used to clean the pores of the skin and has a good moisturization effect later on.
• This can be used to treat Acne as well because when applied these cosmetics products actually make skin dry, and removing excess sebum secretion.
• This also helps in giving a glow to the skin.
• Turmeric powder has good anti-inflammatory properties, because of which our skin also looks more hydrated and enhanced.
• There is the curcumin in turmeric, which can also help in healing wounds faster by reducing inflammation and reducing oxidation.

2. Coconut Oil: Now many people will argue that coconut oil is not a desi cosmetic. But I insist, it is. This is because desi doesn't mean that it can only be from India, but desi is the new name for any localized product.

• Coconut oil is really beneficial for the skin. It helps in keeping your skin protected from harmful UV rays as well.
• Also, because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it helps in keeping your skin away from irritation.
• Because lauric acid in coconut oil, helps in collagen production, which keeps your skin firm, signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines are reduced.
• I have seen several people use coconut oil with lemon juice to treat dark spots. This is because lemon juice enhances coconut oil's properties.

3. Desi Haircolor (Mehandi): Many people would have heard about Henna, yes this item shared by India to the world has many properties away from dying hair. People in India use Mehandi/Henna Powder to nourish, strengthen, and beautify their hairs. 

• Before Henna Powder, people used henna leaves to color their hairs.
• Henna/Mehandi helps in improving hair growth.
• It also helps in conditioning hairs and preventing dandruff.
• Because of Henna's antifungal and antimicrobial properties, it helps in controlling scalp itchiness.
• It also helps in preventing split ends, by providing nourishment to dry and rough hairs.

4. Kajal: Kajal or Kohl is one of the few things that have inspired several people around the world. This also shows how innovative our past was, where people used kajal to wade off eye issues.

• Kajal keeps eyes cool and clean, improves vision, and strengthens the eyes.
• It has also been used for the prevention and treatment of eye diseases such as blepharitis, cataract, conjunctivitis, etc.

There are several other desi cosmetics around India, which are being used in households for ages now. Let us know in the comments below about the desi cosmetics that you use at your home.

References:
1. Anup Mohta (May 2010), Kajal (Kohl) - A dangerous cosmetic. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3003848/