Tanaka means both "cosmetic for beautifying the face" and "cleansing agent". It is recognized as a great aid to help withstand the heat of the sun and thus an ideal cosmetic for those who have to work under direct sunlight. Women who work in the paddy fields usually apply thick layers of Tanaka as a sunscreen to prevent sun-burn while its natural cooling properties help them tolerate the intense heat during the day.
The production of Tanaka is also fascinating. The simple procedure where the bark and roots are stripped, soaked in water, ground and pulverized, using a mortar and a flat stone into a fragrant paste, has not changed for centuries. The light yellow paste with a mild fragrance is then applied to the face. Most women prefer to paint their face immediately after a bath for optimal skin cooling and calming efficacies.
Unlike the face powders, Tanaka stays fresh whole day long while retaining its slight fragrance. It also cools, soothes and helps the skin retain its moisture to avoid blemishes and pimples. With the humidity and relentless sun in tropical countries like Singapore, most women like us struggle to keep our skin care and makeup from melting; but the Burmese women have no such problems with their Tanaka.
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