What Is It Burmese Women Put On Their Face? (Thanaka)

Thanaka is a traditional cosmetic product made from ground bark that is commonly used by women in Myanmar. When I visited Yangon a few years back, I did notice that many of the women had some sort of substance on their cheeks. It is impossible to miss, and it felt like the majority of women wore it.

At the time, I didn't think so much of it. To be honest, at first, I thought it was some sort of medical thing. But as I explored the streets of Yangon further and further, I realized that it couldn't be that since it was so widespread. It wasn't until I returned home that I became curious about the significance of the substance and began to investigate its origins and purpose.

I tried to learn about what this is and why it is so popular in Myanmar. Experiencing diverse cultural practices is one of the greatest joys of travel, and Myanmar's use of thanaka is a perfect example of the fascinating and unique customs waiting to be discovered.

So What Is Thanaka? Thanaka is a traditional cosmetic product that is made from ground bark and has been used in Myanmar (formerly known as Burma) for centuries. It is a yellowish-white paste that is applied to the face, particularly the cheeks and nose, in various decorative or cosmetic patterns. Thanaka is a symbol of traditional beauty and cultural identity, and is deeply ingrained in Myanmar’s cultural heritage.

The use of thanaka can be traced back to the Pyu civilization, which existed in Myanmar over 2,000 years ago. Over time, the use of thanaka has spread throughout the country and has become an important part of Myanmar’s cultural identity. Thanaka is known for its cooling and protective properties, making it a popular choice for use in the hot and humid climate of Myanmar.

The preparation of thanaka is a labor-intensive process that involves grinding the bark of the thanaka tree with water on a circular stone slab known as a kyauk pyin. This produces a smooth, fragrant paste that is then applied to the face. Thanaka is often applied in circular or geometric shapes, and is sometimes mixed with other ingredients, such as turmeric or sandalwood, for additional cosmetic or medicinal benefits.

Thanaka is a product that is deeply ingrained in Myanmar’s culture, and is considered a symbol of beauty, elegance, and traditional values. It is worn by women of all ages and is often seen as a rite of passage for young girls. Many Myanmar people continue to use thanaka daily, and it is a common sight in cities and rural areas alike.

In addition to its cosmetic benefits, thanaka is also believed to have medicinal properties and is used to treat a variety of skin conditions. Thanaka is known for its cooling and astringent properties, making it effective at treating acne, sunburn, and other skin irritations. It is also believed to have antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it a popular choice for treating skin infections.

Today, thanaka continues to be an important part of Myanmar’s cultural identity. While it is still commonly used by women for its cosmetic benefits, it has also gained popularity among men for its cooling and protective properties. Thanaka is also beginning to gain recognition outside of Myanmar, and is now being used in some skincare products and cosmetics around the world. However, for many Myanmar people, the use of thanaka remains a deeply ingrained cultural tradition that is an essential part of their daily lives.