Here is why you should try a milk bath

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This article was written by Qaqamba Falithenjwa.

We understand how good milk is for our bodies because of the vitamins and nutrients it contains. It is also known that milk can be beneficial for our skin, but one would think all these benefits are received only through drinking milk.

Would you be interested in learning that there are even more advantages you can get by dipping yourself in milk?

Dermatologist Alok Vij discussed the advantages of taking a milk bath with Cleveland Clinic’s Health Essentials.

Exfoliates skin: The dermatologist claims that milk’s lactic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), exfoliates the skin leaving it feeling soft, silky, and smooth. AHA-containing cosmetics are frequently sold as, “skin peelers.”

Moisturise skin: Dr Alok states that your skin’s outermost layer contains proteins that hold to water and oil; it absorbs milk lipids when you take a milk bath. He says, “Those fats seep in and give your skin a little extra hydration.” This moisturising action could lessen the signs and symptoms of sunburn and chronic inflammatory illnesses, including dermatitis atopy, dermatitis, and psoriasis.

Eliminates inflammation: According to the dermatologist mentioned above, milk is rich in calcium, zinc, and vitamin D. So, it is beneficial for your skin because it has anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing skin inflammation and easing symptoms of skin conditions.

Relieves itchiness: The anti-inflammatory properties and calming benefits of a milk bath may provide relief from itching caused by contact with poison ivy or other plants that cause rashes, (In addition, washing off the hazardous oil is a good idea.) However, Dr. Alok advises against using milk baths as a replacement for prescription drugs when treating poison ivy or other comparable conditions, despite the fact that they may have anti-inflammatory qualities.

Medical information and health publication Healthline, suggested the milk shared below when taking a milk bath:

whole milk
buttermilk
coconut milk
goat milk
powdered milk
either soy milk or rice milk

Healthline further claims that there isn’t much data to support the claims that one kind of milk is better for the skin than another. “You can try a variety of milk varieties to see which one you like most.” On the other hand, the publication advises against using skim milk because full-fat milk is much better for your skin.

This article first appeared on Bona.