Why you should include calendula in your beauty routine

You’re probably already drowning in umpteen suggestions from your loved ones when it comes to skincare—and we are aware what a jumble of thoughts it can lead to. But to lend you a helping hand in the beauty department, we have a simple and effective ingredient that you should have as a part of your intensive skincare routine before the big day. 

Yes, we know you are doing it all and have researched every possible method of getting a natural radiant glow, both through traditional and modern means. However, you could’ve missed out on Calendula, a flower with natural components that will change your skincare game. Not to confuse Calendula with marigolds you see on garlands—they do share the same family and look very similar but have different properties. Calendula is native to Asia and Europe and is even used in many ayurvedic medicines. Today, you also see it in various forms of anti-inflammatory cleansers, creams and serums. 

We’ll tell you why you should use Calendula products in the months leading up to your wedding—and even after that.

Anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-regret

Calendula-infused oil has anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial properties that contribute to curing wounds, soothing eczema, and relieving rash-like patches. It can even increase collagen production (more protein and more strength for your skin). Add this as an additional step in your regime and you won’t regret it. 

Hello, hydration!

As Calendula comes with its own natural oils and is also high in fatty acids, it can be very gentle on the skin and help keeps it moisturised. So, if you are planning a winter wedding and prepping your skin to not dry out, you should totally invest in a Calendula cream and apply it regularly for best results. The healing properties also increase the ability to increase blood flow and oxygen supply to the skin.

The protector

The same properties that help Calendula soothe the skin, also make it a very reliable protector, called flavonoids. They protect you against radical damage stemming from destructive molecules and can wreck your skin. Calendulic acid neutralises these not-welcomed radicals before they make things worse for you and your bridal dreams.

Is it for you?

As much as we’d want you to have a new favourite on your pre-wedding skincare list, it might not work for everyone. If you are allergic to daisies, marigolds or flowers from the Asteraceae family, then you should give this a pass. However, if you don't have such allergies and are curious about Calendula’s effects on you, you can do a patch test and see if your skin agrees with it. Or even better, check with your trusted dermatologist before incorporating Calendula into your regular routine.

Words by Nikita Vig