A video currently trending on Instagram credits a special roti mask for tightening facial skin. According to face yoga expert Mansi Gulati, if you want naturally tight skin, “To prepare the dough, mix whole wheat and milk, shape the dough into a circular shape as shown in the video. Apply it on your face and sprinkle rose water over the flour. Leave it on your face for 5 minutes and see the change yourself!” But is this simple click-baiting or does it actually work?
Roti mask craze:
Mansi Gulati elaborates that while whole wheat helps in regeneration of skin cells, rose water provides hydration and milk helps in clearing pores, black heads and white heads. While Mansi seems quite confident about her ‘beauty hack’, hundreds of comments on her post are calling it nonsense. Even doctors aren’t too sold on this.
The truth behind this Instagram trend
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Rinki Kapoor, consultant dermatologist, cosmetic dermatologist and dermato-surgeon at The Aesthetic Clinics, said that the use of wheat flour, milk and rose water on the face is not supported by any scientific evidence. “There is no evidence that it tightens the skin,” he stressed. In fact, a large number of people will experience reactions such as rashes or irritation due to gluten sensitivity or wheat allergy. This is particularly prevalent in people with conditions such as eczema, where consumption of wheat-based products can potentially trigger a flare-up. Acne and pimples can be nasty things that can steal one’s peace of mind. In such cases, even topical applications containing whole wheat extracts may cause unexpected skin problems that may give you a hard time.
He cautioned, “One may experience skin irritations, itching, redness, irritation and rashes which can be frustrating and distressing. Using whole wheat and rose water as part of a DIY face mask can enhance the glow while gently removing dead cells. However, always do a patch test before indulging in whole wheat beauty rituals; What nourishes one person’s skin may not suit another’s needs. Everyone will see variations in results depending on skin type. It is better to seek advice from an expert rather than trying any home remedy by watching any video on social media.
Also Read: 7 DIY Face Masks for Sensitive Skin
Even better, just eat bread
Dr. Rinki Kapoor said, “Whole wheat flour is not just a staple of our diet. However, it is also used by many people for their skin as it is believed to provide various skin benefits, particularly in the regeneration of skin cells, and helps enhance the appearance. Rich in essential nutrients like vitamins B1 (thiamine), B3 (niacin) and E, whole wheat is known to promote antioxidant properties that help fight oxidative stress, which causes premature aging and sagging skin. One of the factors causing harm.
He reveals, “Also, whole wheat contains dietary fiber and minerals like zinc and selenium which increase blood circulation in the body. Better circulation means better delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells, allowing the skin to heal naturally. The phytonutrients found in whole grains work synergistically to reduce inflammation, protecting against external factors while also helping to repair damaged skin. Including whole wheat flour in your diet not only provides energy to your body but can also be an important ally for the vitality of your skin. It is known to help in tightening the skin. However, these benefits are not yet proven. Therefore, be cautious while using any product without doctor’s knowledge.”
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
