Bindi Allergy: Simple Solution to This Common Complaint

Over recent years, one rising realm of skin problems has been cases of ‘bindi allergy’. Though applying a bindi is thought to be obsolete among modern millennials, this ancient tradition is still trending strongly in our country. 

Applying a Bindi has been an integral part of our customs since aeons. But our ancestors never complained of allergies. This is probably because, in ancient times, they used pure vermillion, Kumkum, Chandan, or turmeric.

Kumkum is made with turmeric, slaked lime, and colour-enhancing dyes. These natural ingredients never have a harsh effect on tender skin.

Throughout the generations, the bindi has remained a pivotal part of an Indian women’s adornment. But something that was once holy and harmless has now become a source of allergy!

Some women who wear bindi all day long complain of itchiness and redness over their foreheads. This is probably because of the change in the essence of bindi.

The tradition remained the same, but the composition changed.

Pure Kumkum and Chandan bindis were replaced by glamorous sticky bindis. The glue used in these Bindis often doesn’t suit the skin, resulting in an allergy.

Also Read: Ayurvedic Self-Care Practice for Dry Skin

Bindi Allergy in brief!

Allergy to Bindi or bindi dermatitis is mainly caused by the prolonged use of chemically composed bindis. Earlier, the ingredients of Bindi were pure and harmless, but now they are crafted with chemicals.

Harsh chemicals like Para Tertiary Butyl Phenol formaldehyde(PTBP), causes a reaction in sensitive skin.

Also Read: Ayurvedic Treatment for Dry Skin

Clinical complaints of Bindi allergy

Severe itching and irritation are the most common complaints among ladies who use bindis regularly. In some, we can also spot a whitish patch or depigmentation in the area of application. 

However, in most cases, the complaints remain the same.

In some, the area looks rash and reddish, while in others, small red dots surround the area of the stick-on bindis. Constant itching remains another complaint reported in almost all cases of bindi allergies. 

Ayurvedic Treatment for Bindi allergy

My first suggestion to all the patients of bindi allergy is to stop using sticky bindi immediately. 

If it is absolutely necessary to wear a bindi, then I suggest they try using pure Kumkum bindi. Pure Kumkum is healing and does not cause skin irritation. Applying pure Kumkum with Vaseline helps in faster healing. 

Here are a few Home Remedies that come to aid in the fast healing of Bindi Allergy

1. Bee Wax and Tulsi

• Mixing bee wax with tulsi juice is another way to put a Kumkum bindi.
• Make a solid base. 
• Apply it between the brows and put kumkum over the solution. 

2. Turmeric and Neem

• Add 1 tsp of turmeric and 1 tsp of neem to 2 cups of water
• Boil the water to reduce it to 1 cup.
• Wash the area with this concoction 4-5 times a day.

3. Coconut Oil

• Coconut Oil is an excellent anti-allergen
• Apply pure coconut oil and massage the affected area.

4. Aloe vera Gel

• Aloe vera gel brings relief to the redness, itching and burning sensations.
• Take a leaf and scrape the gel with a scoop.
• Apply it directly or in ice cubes over the affected area.

5. Basil Leaves

• Apply Basil leaves juice or paste with a pinch of salt.
• Leave it for 15 minutes, and then wash it with cold water. 
• It relieves the pain and redness of the allergy. 
• Basil leaf juice is also very effective in calming a headache.

6. Baking Soda

• Diluted baking soda was applied with a cotton ball thickly. 
• Wash it with cold water after 10-20 minutes.

7. Apple cider vinegar

• Apply diluted apple cider vinegar. 
• It can heal itching because of the acetic acid in it.

8. Lemon and Honey

• Both lemon and honey are great anti-allergens.
• Blend lemon and honey in a bowl.
• Apply the paste over the area. 
• Wash off after 15 minutes.

Ayurvedic Oils for Bindi Allergy

1. Durvadi Taila 

• It helps in relieving itching and aids in fast healing  
• Apply it half an hour to an hour before bath.

2. Jathyadi Taila

• Jathyadi Taila speeds up healing and results in quick recovery.
• It also reduces itching, irritation, and burning sensations.

3. Karanja Taila

• It relieves inflammation and other symptoms of the allergy.
• Karanja Taila is to be used topically as per the doctor’s advice.

4. Neem Oil

• It is a natural moisturizer with antiseptic and analgesic properties. 
• Apply a few drops of Neem Oil on the affected areas. 
• It relieves the burning and itching of the allergy.

If the skin patch has turned white, you can use Bakuchi Taila, Somaraji Taila, or Avalgujadi team. Apply the oil over the affected area twice a day. ( consult your doctor before applying this)

Oral medicines for long-persisting Bindi dermatitis

• Sarivadyasava
• Mahamanjishtadi Kadha
• Mahatitkaka Kashayam
• Kadhirarishta
• Chandanasav
• Kishore Guggulu 

Take Away!

Bindi is an essential part of many Indian women’s personalities. In ancient times, pure Kumkum bindis were more than a symbol of marital status.

It has many health benefits and calming properties.

But the façade of the modern-day has ripped the benefits of the tradition. And now all that remains is the name of a tradition and its many alterations.

Moreover, wearing a plastic bindi has no benefits—except declaring one’s marital status and completing the traditional look! But apart from that, the modern Bindi is useless!

In conclusion, I suggest you go back in time and use pure Kumkum bindi on a regular basis. Haldi and Chandan’s bindis are great for unmarried people. Reserve the sticky, stylish Bindis for special occasions!

 Bindi Allergy: A Natural Solution for Those with Kumkum Sensitivity

Modified Herbal Kumkum Powder: A Safer Alternative

For those who suffer from kumkum allergy, a common issue among bindi wearers, a team of researchers has developed a modified herbal kumkum powder that may offer relief. This innovative formulation, created by Dr. Wagh Jyoti G, Prof. Veerkar Prachi V., Dr. Abhilasha Mittal, Dr. Raj Kumari, Dr. Shailesh Sharma, and Dr. Sonu Sharma, aims to reduce allergic reactions while maintaining the cultural significance of the bindi.

The modified kumkum powder consists of the following natural ingredients

1. Turmeric powder (2.4 grams)
2. Beetroot powder (1.6 grams)
3. Catechu powder (10 grams)
4. Pterocarpus santalinus (red sandalwood) powder (6 grams)

This carefully crafted blend takes advantage of the beneficial properties of each component.

– Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric has been used in skincare for centuries.
– Beetroot: Rich in betalains, natural pigments that provide colour and potential health benefits.
– Catechu: Derived from Acacia catechu, it offers antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
– Red sandalwood: Provides a soothing effect on the skin and has anti-inflammatory properties.

The preparation involves finely grinding these ingredients, mixing them with distilled water to form a slurry, and then drying and pulverizing the mixture into a fine powder. This method ensures a uniform distribution of the active components and a texture suitable for application as a bindi.

Key advantages of this modified kumkum powder include,

1. Reduced risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions
2. Easy removal with water
3. Good adherence to the skin
4. Eco-friendly and free from synthetic dyes
5. Potential skin benefits from the natural ingredients

For those who have experienced discomfort or allergic reactions to traditional kumkum, this herbal alternative may allow them to continue the cultural practice of wearing a bindi without compromising skin health. However, as with any new skincare product, it’s advisable to perform a patch test before regular use.