We have all in some capacity or the other inherited traditional Indian tricks and tips for our hair, skin, and health in general. Ranging from champi, to eating soaked almonds, using besan to de-tan, or even tying a black thread on our ankles to keep nazar away. But have you ever been told to put your saliva on your face for pimples or scars first thing in the morning after you wake up and before you brush your teeth? Have you ever wondered if it works? We asked a Dr Kiran of Isya Aesthetics for her two cents on the matter.
While it sounds bizarre, and frankly disgusting it has been around as a common traditional practice in India for centuries. We were curious whether or not this easily accessible remedy to acne and scarring was backed by science.
What’s Up With Using Morning Saliva To Heal Your Acne?
Saliva Has Healing Properties
- Saliva is made up of 99.5% water and contains many interesting antimicrobial activities.
- These include hydrogen peroxide and antimicrobial enzymes like lactoferrin and lactoperoxidase.
- It has enzymes like amylase, antioxidants, and still other enzymes like superoxide dismutase, and a host of white blood cells to fight infection.
Saliva Also Has Bacteria Though
- Simply put, it sounds great in theory because saliva appears to have all these healing enzymes. In practice, however, the story is a little different because saliva lives in your mouth.
- Do you know what else lives in your mouth? Bacteria. So if your saliva carries this bacteria, the healing properties of your saliva stand redundant.
- Keeping your saliva clean also involves near-perfect dental care and hygiene. Dr Kiran stresses the importance of teeth care, no free-flowing food particles and no bad breath to ensure clean and clear saliva.
So What’s The Verdict?
While it may be tempting to think of morning saliva is the answer to your prayers, it is indeed too good to be true. There is no scientific data that would suggest that it is in fact good for your acne and scars. In the words of Dr Kiran she “wouldn’t bet the bank on it, and would frankly avoid it”.
What Else Can Be Used For Acne And Scarring?
If you’re a morning saliva enthusiast looking for an alternative option, look no further as Dr Kiran suggests salicylic acid. This works by penetrating the skin deeply and fights scarring by separating the dead skin cells and allowing new skin cells to form. However, it can be very drying so it is not the ideal solution for dry skin.
A good alternative is azelaic acid which is made of grains like barley, rye and wheat. Azelaic Acid is a gentler acid and it is bactericidal so it works by essentially killing acne-causing bacteria. It works to reduce inflammation and scarring by controlling melanin production.
Give these acids a chance and ditch using your morning saliva to try healing your skin! Put your faith in science, and let these acids do all the work!
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