Pearl Powder

I'm sure some of you have heard the many wonderful benefits of using pearl powder. Is it real? Can pearl, used in prized jewelery, can actually be consumed?

Pearl has been used for medicinal purposes from China for over 2000 years. It has a reputation of being a medicine for treating certain diseases as well as preserving a youthful appearance.In traditional Chinese medicine Pearl Powder is taken internally and applied topically. 

According to some of the article, Pearl Powder is believed to have the following benefits when used internally: 

Detoxify the system; Clean and clear the skin; Calm the liver; Relieve stress from the mind; Adjust the nerve system; Regulate the metabolism; Improve eyesight; Treat insomnia, good for the lungs

It is also well known for the skin benefits, such as whitening, healing blemishes and maintain the health of the skin by participating in the metabolic activities of the skin. Pearl promotes the regeneration of new cells and makes the skin smooth, fine, elastic and naturally beautiful. 

My take?

I'm no expert, so I don't know if it's useful or not, or if there will be side effects. 

But it's being sold at respectable TCM shops like Eu Yan Sang, which means that it is approved by MOH. I did grew up with asthma, and I was prescribed to eat Pearl Powder on a twice a week regime by my TCM doc. So, to believe it or not, is at your own discretion.

In case you don't know, consumable pearls are different from the normal pearls that is used for jewellery. The ones in TCM shops are very small, of irregular size and texture. They are then grounded into powder for consumption.

There are many grades of pearl powder. Supposedly from what my TCM shop advise, the smaller the pearls the better, because there is less impurities and it is easier for your body to absorb. There are $5, $10, $20, $50..different ranges. Some ranges can be used for masks, some are suited for consumption. Personally, I would advise higher grade for consumption, you don't wanna kid around with your health.

But like all medicine such as panadol, you should not over consume. Once a month or twice a month will do. 

Home made Pearl powder cream and toner

For the lower grade pearl powder, you can use as a mask. Mix with milk and corn starch, and apply on the face. For me, I find that too messy. I also find consuming the pearl powder too costly to do it often. So i usually buy a $5 pack of freshly grinded pearl powder like the above, and pour into my 300 ml toner. You can also mix it with your moisturizer if you want.

I'll just shake it before use each time to make sure it's evenly mixed. If your toner is non alcoholic, you can even use the mixture as a mask to both moisturise and whiten. To me, this is cost efficient and convenient.

Note: For some of the pearl whitening creams, the pearlescent glow effect mainly come from the mineral components such as mica. Moreover the cream itself has moisturising properties, and your skin will naturally look plumper and brighter with well moisturised skin. I'm not saying they are not effective, but maybe not in the way you feel it does.