Borak (cosmetic)

Borak or burak^[1] is a cosmetic face powder or paste that is applied on the face for protection from the sun. It is traditionally used by the Sama-Bajau people of the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

Sama woman from Semporna, Sabah, Malaysia, with borak

Borak is most commonly used by Sama-Bajau women to protect the face and exposed skin areas from the harsh tropical sun at sea.^[2] Ingredients can include talcum powder, rice flour, turmeric, and other ingredients.^[3]

When dry, borak is in powder form. The powder is first soaked in water to form a paste before being applied on the face.^[3] The paste can be a yellowish color or sometimes white.

Similar pastes

In Myanmar, thanaka, a yellow-white cosmetic paste made of ground tree bark, is traditionally used for sun protection. In Madagascar, a paste of wood called masonjoany is worn for decoration as well as for sun protection.^[4]

See also

• Sunscreen
• Masonjoany
• Thanaka
• Lotion