Ceylon Cinnamon in Natural Skincare: Spice Up Your Beauty Routine

Today we're chatting about Ceylon cinnamon and how it can make your skin look fab. You might know cinnamon as that tasty spice in your kitchen, but did you know it's brilliant for your skin too? 

Let's dive in and see why Ceylon cinnamon is making waves in natural skincare and how you can use it at home.

What's so special about Ceylon cinnamon?

First off, let's talk about what makes Ceylon cinnamon different from the regular stuff in your spice rack. Ceylon cinnamon, also called "true" cinnamon, comes from the inner bark of a tree that grows in Sri Lanka. It's got a lighter colour and a sweeter taste than the common Cassia cinnamon.

But we're not here to talk about cooking - we're here for the skin benefits! Ceylon cinnamon is packed with good stuff that can help your skin look and feel great.

What can Ceylon cinnamon do for your skin?

1. It's full of antioxidants: These help protect your skin from damage that can make you look older.
2. It can calm angry skin: If your skin is red or irritated, cinnamon might help soothe it.
3. It fights spots: Cinnamon can help kill the bacteria that cause spots.
4. It gives you a glow: When you put it on your skin, it can boost blood flow, giving you a healthy glow.
5. It might help with wrinkles: Some studies say cinnamon can help your skin make more collagen, which keeps it firm.
6. It's a great exfoliator: Ground cinnamon can help scrub off dead skin cells.

Science Backs the Spice:

The benefits of Ceylon cinnamon aren't just anecdotal. Studies have shown that cinnamaldehyde, a key compound in cinnamon, has antimicrobial properties. A 2016 research review published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine found that cinnamaldehyde was effective against a variety of bacteria and fungi, including some strains that can cause skin problems.

Additionally, research suggests that proanthocyanidins, another compound in cinnamon, may help protect skin from free radical damage. A 2017 study published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevit explored the antioxidant properties of various fruits and found that proanthocyanidins were particularly effective in protecting skin cells from oxidative stress.

This is just a starting point, of course. You can find many other studies on the potential benefits of cinnamon for skin health with a quick web search using reputable medical databases.

How to use Ceylon cinnamon in your skincare

Now that we know why it's so good, let's look at how to use it. 

Here are some easy recipes you can try at home:

Cinnamon and honey face mask

This is great for all skin types and can help make your skin look brighter.

You'll need:

• 1 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon powder
• 2 tablespoons honey

Mix them together, put it on clean skin, and leave it for 10-15 minutes. Then wash it off with warm water. Do this once a week.

Cinnamon sugar scrub

This will help get rid of dead skin and leave your skin feeling soft.

You'll need:

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon powder

Mix it all together. Gently rub it on damp skin in circles, then rinse off. Use this once or twice a week.

Cinnamon toner

This can help balance your skin and fight spots.

You'll need:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cinnamon stick (or 1 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon powder)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Boil the water and cinnamon, then let it cool. Strain out the cinnamon and add the vinegar. Put it on with a cotton pad after washing your face.

Cinnamon lip plumper

Want fuller-looking lips? Try this:

You'll need:

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/4 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon powder
• 1 drop peppermint oil (if you like)

Mix it all up and put it on your lips. The cinnamon will make your lips look plumper.

Cinnamon body lotion

For an all-over glow, try this:

You'll need:

• 1/2 cup plain body lotion
• 1/4 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon powder
• 2 drops vanilla oil (if you like)

Mix it all together and put it on after your shower.

A word of warning

While Ceylon cinnamon is usually safe, it's always a good idea to test it first. Put a bit on the inside of your wrist and wait a day to see if you have any reaction.

If you've got sensitive skin, start with less cinnamon in your recipes and use more as your skin gets used to it.

Choosing the Right Cinnamon

When using cinnamon in your skincare, it's crucial to choose the right type. Here's what to look for:

1. Ceylon Cinnamon: Always opt for Ceylon cinnamon over Cassia cinnamon. Ceylon is gentler on the skin and less likely to cause irritation.
2. Organic: Choose organic cinnamon to avoid any potential pesticide residues.
3. Powder vs. Essential Oil: While we've focused on powder in our recipes, cinnamon essential oil is also an option. However, it's much more potent and should always be diluted before use.
4. Freshness: Check the expiration date and make sure your cinnamon is fresh for maximum benefits.

Incorporating Ceylon Cinnamon into Your Skincare Routine

Now that you've got some great DIY recipes, let's talk about how to incorporate them into your skincare routine:

1. Cleansing: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt and oil from your skin.
2. Exfoliating: Use the cinnamon sugar scrub once or twice a week after cleansing.
3. Toning: Apply the cinnamon toner daily after cleansing to help balance your skin.
4. Masking: Use the cinnamon honey mask once a week for a nourishing treat.
5. Moisturising: Finish with your regular moisturiser or try the cinnamon body lotion for an all-over glow.

Remember, consistency is key in skincare. Give your new cinnamon-infused routine a few weeks to see results.

Why does cinnamon work so well?

Let's get a bit sciencey for a moment. Cinnamon contains:

1. Cinnamaldehyde: This is what gives cinnamon its smell and taste. It also helps fight spots.
2. Proanthocyanidins: These help protect your skin from damage.
3. Eugenol: This can help calm irritated skin.
4. Cinnamic Acid: This might help even out your skin tone.

Cinnamon in shop-bought products

If you don't fancy making your own, lots of skincare brands are now using Ceylon cinnamon in their products. You might find it in:

1. Face masks
2. Scrubs
3. Lip plumpers
4. Anti-ageing creams
5. Body lotions

Keep an eye out for these next time you're shopping.

Buying cinnamon the right way

Final thoughts

We hope this chat about Ceylon cinnamon has got you excited to try it in your skincare! From fighting spots to giving you a glow, cinnamon is a brilliant ingredient for your skin.

Remember, everyone's skin is different, so what works for your mate might not work for you. Don't be afraid to try different things and see what your skin likes best. And if you're worried about using something new on your skin, it's always a good idea to chat with a doctor first.