Thanakha

   A tree (Linoria acidissima) whose bark is ground and mixed with water to make a traditional cosmetic for women. Applied to the face and arms as a yellowish paste, it serves as a skin moisturizer and sunscreen. Mothers use it to protect their children's skin. Though Burmese women who can afford them increasingly use Western-style cosmetics, thanakha remains very popular because it is cheap and effective. Readily available in markets, there are several grades, and it can be purchased in solid, powder, or liquid form.