Masonjoany: The beauty ritual of Malagasy women

During a trip to Madagascar, you’re likely to see women on the beach with a type of white or orange face painting. This is masonjoany, a beauty mask made in Madagascar! Sometimes applied uniformly across the face, and other times in decorative patterns, it is a striking tradition.

A sunscreen on the coasts, and so much more…

Masonjoany refers not only to the makeup itself but also to the wood from which it is made. It is sandalwood, a material commonly used in aromatherapy, perfumery, and carpentry. Its strong aroma can last for centuries, as seen in Indian temples. In fact, it was likely from the Indians that the Malagasy people learned to use masonjoany. In India, sandalwood is still widely used as incense. 

Originally from India, Nepal, Australia, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, and Hawaii, the sandalwood tree was introduced to Madagascar, where it adapted remarkably well. Today, masonjoany is an essential part of life, especially in Malagasy coastal cities (notably in the West, North, and South). It is now commercially available in various forms: powder, lotion, cream, makeup remover, soap, and more. 

However, most Malagasy women still use the traditional method: rubbing a piece of sandalwood—or now branches from other endemic medicinal plants—on a coral stone previously dampened with water, then applying the paste directly to the face. The paste dries quickly. While this process might seem tiring, it’s how daughters have seen their mothers and grandmothers do it for generations.

A tradition, a habit, a beauty trend

The Sakalava women of Majunga (Mahajanga), Diego Suarez (Antsiranana), or Nosy Be, as well as the Vezo women of Tuléar, commonly apply masonjoany (tabaky for the Vezo) to their faces, whether for everyday use or during ceremonies and festivities. 

The main reason: it’s a beauty trend that has endured for generations. The second reason: it protects the skin from the intense sun along Madagascar’s coasts, regardless of the time of year. 

Beyond UV protection, masonjoany serves as a beauty mask, helping with spots, acne, toxins, and wrinkles. It’s no surprise that adolescents, adults, and older women alike use it. Additionally, it has soothing and relaxing properties, making it an essential beauty ally for Malagasy women, helping them feel feminine and beautiful!

A symbol of Malagasy beauty

Masonjoany has become a symbol of Malagasy women’s beauty. When thinking of them, the image of women wearing white or orange beauty masks comes to mind. It’s become such a phenomenon that its application is now offered to travelers and vacationers on Madagascar’s popular beaches. 

For a fun and artistic twist, masonjoany is often applied in patterns of flowers, leaves, petals, and more. It may feel a bit tight on the skin at first, but you quickly get used to it!

© Détours Madagascar - November 18, 2019