
Product overview
Key Features
- Manufactured by Shwe Pyi Nann Co., Ltd., a Myanmar (Burmese) company based in Yangon, founded in 1991 and reported to hold the majority share of Myanmar's thanaka market
- Made from Thanaka, a traditional Burmese cosmetic paste ground from the bark of a tree botanically known as Hesperethusa crenulata (also called Limonia acidissima), used in Myanmar for over 2,000 years for skincare and sun protection
- Naming note: the manufacturer's own product line for this 140g size is listed as "Natural Whitening Thanakha" rather than "Facepack" -- "Facepack" appears to be a regional retailer naming convention rather than the manufacturer's own product title. This is disclosed for transparency rather than presented as an official SKU name
- Format note: based on retailer descriptions (apply, wait, rinse), this product appears to be a ready-to-use paste or cream format rather than raw bark or powder requiring separate grinding, though this format was not independently confirmed by an official product page
Benefits
- Traditionally used for a cooling sensation, mild acne prevention, and general skin conditioning
- Published laboratory research on thanaka bark extract has found antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory activity, mild antimicrobial activity, and mild anti-tyrosinase (skin-brightening-related) activity, along with coumarin compounds that absorb UV-A radiation in vitro
- Marketing-claims note: some retailers market this product with "whitening" or brightening language. Published evidence supports only mild, non-dramatic anti-tyrosinase activity -- this description avoids implying a strong or guaranteed lightening effect. Similarly, while thanaka's UV-absorbing compounds are documented in laboratory studies, no specific SPF (sun protection factor) value has been established in the scientific literature, so this product should not be relied upon as a substitute for a dedicated sunscreen
Who Can Use This Product
- Adults and teens interested in a traditional Burmese skincare paste for facial use
- Those with known sensitivities to botanical/bark extracts should patch-test before regular use
- Discontinue use if irritation, redness, or an allergic reaction occurs
How to Use
- Cleanse the face first
- Apply an even layer to the face and neck, avoiding the eye area
- Leave on for approximately 15-20 minutes
- Rinse off with lukewarm water and follow with a moisturizer
- Retailers commonly suggest use 2-3 times per week, though this is retailer guidance rather than official manufacturer or clinical instruction
Storage & Safety
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Keep the container tightly closed after use
- Keep out of reach of children
- Avoid contact with eyes; rinse thoroughly with water if contact occurs
- Discontinue use and consult a doctor if irritation or an allergic reaction develops
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: What is Thanaka?
A: A traditional Burmese cosmetic paste ground from the bark of the Hesperethusa crenulata tree, used in Myanmar for centuries for skincare, cooling, and traditional sun protection.
Q: Does this product really whiten skin?
A: Published research shows only mild anti-tyrosinase (brightening-related) activity, not a strong or guaranteed whitening effect. This description avoids overstating this claim.
Q: Can this replace sunscreen?
A: No -- while thanaka contains compounds that absorb UV-A radiation in laboratory studies, no specific SPF value has been established, so it should not be used as a substitute for a dedicated sunscreen.
Q: Why does the product name say "Facepack" when the manufacturer's own listing says "Natural Whitening Thanakha"?
A: This appears to be a regional retailer naming convention rather than the manufacturer's official product title -- both likely refer to the same underlying product line.
Q: How often should this be used?
A: Retailers commonly suggest 2-3 times per week, though this is general retailer guidance rather than official clinical instruction.
The information provided is accurate to our best practices, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific information about a drug should not be seen as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences resulting from this information, so consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.