Tibetans cover up to tone down ruddy glow
Print Edition
Tibetan people have traditionally had flushed cheeks — a result of the plateau’s harsh conditions. However, a growing interest in skin care in recent years has seen some seek to tone down this red glow.
Many Tibetans sport a ruddy complexion all year round because the high altitude causes a lowering of oxygen pressure.
This results in an increased number of red blood cells, explained Ngoezhub Norbu, a professor of high altitude medicine with the Tibet University.
The rosy flush is made more pronounced by intense ultraviolet radiation, big variations in day and night temperatures, plus bitter winter cold, said Ngoezhub.
Outside the Jokhang Temple in Tibet’s capital of Lhasa, many locals who circle the temple while spinning prayer wheels wear hats, masks and scarves in order to block ultraviolet rays, rather than being exposed to strong sunlight for hours a day, as they did previously.
“In the past, I often chatted with friends under the scorching sun until it went down. But now, we move to a tea house or meet at home,” said Namgyal, a 78-year-old Lhasa resident.
These changes in lifestyle reflect increasing health awareness, with many Tibetan urbanites having more connections in the wider world.
“We used to bask in the sun for warmth and had no knowledge of the harm the exposure could do. Today, we have a better understanding of how to protect ourselves,” said Degyi, a cosmetics saleswoman in downtown Lhasa.
She said skin care has increasingly become an essential part of life of young Tibetans.
“Sunscreens and whitening products are among the best-sellers,” Degyi added.
Soinam Wangmo, a Tibetan graduate from the Shenyang Dance Academy in northeast China’s Liaoning Province, said she favors creams and masks to reduce the glow unique to residents of plateau regions.
“Many Tibetans go to other places to study, some right after they finish primary school,” said Soinam, who came back to Lhasa this year.
“Inevitably, their habits and ideas of beauty have significantly changed.”
However, some Tibetans feel that covering up has come along a bit late for them.
“Like the young generation, I myself also hope to get rid of the flush on my face. But I guess it’s already too late for me to make the change,” said Namgyal.
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