Usma Grass: A Beauty Tradition of the Uyghur People
History
Usma grass is incredibly selective about its habitat and can only thrive in specific geographic and climatic conditions found in Central Asia. The plant is deeply intertwined with the beauty traditions of the diligent and wise Uyghur people. They've known natural beauty secrets for centuries, such as using henna for nail coloring, yogurt for skin whitening, and Usma grass for eyebrow enhancement.
For the Uyghur community, a special tradition is followed. Seven days after a baby girl is born, her mother applies Usma grass juice to her eyebrows, often joining the eyebrows at the center intentionally. This symbolizes a mother's hope that her daughter will remain close and harmonious as she grows up.
Today's Culture
From April onwards each year, Usma grass becomes available in the market. Uyghur girls gather and apply Usma grass juice to their eyebrows, meticulously pressing and squeezing the grass to extract its juice. They use small cotton swabs to apply the juice to their eyebrows, repeating the process multiple times. After about thirty minutes, once the color and nutrients from Usma grass juice are fully absorbed, they wash away any residue.