Ubtan is a traditional skincare remedy that has been used in South Asia for centuries. Known for its natural ingredients and effective results, ubtan helps brighten the skin, reduce blemishes, and give you a healthy, glowing complexion. Unlike commercial skincare products that often contain chemicals, homemade ubtan is gentle, customizable, and perfect for all skin types.
In this article, we’ll explore the 8 best homemade ubtan recipes you can easily prepare at home using natural ingredients. Along with benefits and usage tips, you’ll find everything you need to know to get glowing, radiant skin naturally.
What is Ubtan?
Ubtan is a paste or powder made by mixing natural ingredients like flours, herbs, spices, and liquids such as milk or rose water. Traditionally, it’s applied as a face and body mask to exfoliate, cleanse, and nourish the skin. Ubtan is rich in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and natural exfoliants, making it a perfect choice for achieving soft, glowing skin without harsh chemicals.
1. Classic Besan (Gram Flour) Ubtan
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons besan (gram flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (haldi)
- 2 tablespoons milk or yogurt
- 1 tablespoon rose water
Benefits:
Besan acts as a gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells, while turmeric has natural antiseptic and brightening properties. Milk or yogurt hydrates the skin, and rose water soothes and tones. This ubtan is ideal for all skin types, especially oily and combination skin, helping to control excess oil and reduce acne.
2. Multani Mitti (Fuller’s Earth) Ubtan
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons Multani mitti
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 tablespoon rose water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
Benefits:
Multani mitti is excellent for deep cleansing as it absorbs excess oil and impurities from the skin. This ubtan helps reduce pimples, tightens pores, and gives a matte finish. The addition of lemon juice brightens the skin and fights pigmentation, but avoid lemon if you have sensitive skin.
3. Oatmeal and Honey Ubtan
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons oatmeal powder
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 tablespoons milk
Benefits:
Oatmeal soothes sensitive skin and acts as a mild exfoliant. Honey moisturizes and has antibacterial properties. This ubtan is perfect for dry and sensitive skin types, providing hydration and calming irritation while promoting a healthy glow.
4. Saffron and Milk Ubtan
Ingredients:
- A few strands of saffron
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 tablespoons besan
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Benefits:
Saffron is known for its skin brightening and tone-evening properties. Combined with milk and turmeric, this ubtan helps reduce dullness, improves skin texture, and leaves your skin radiant and luminous. It is excellent for normal to dry skin types.
5. Almond and Rose Water Ubtan
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons almond powder
- 2 tablespoons rose water
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Benefits:
Almond powder nourishes and softens the skin with vitamin E and healthy fats. Rose water tones and refreshes, while milk hydrates deeply. This ubtan is great for dry and mature skin, leaving it soft and naturally glowing.
6. Sandalwood and Turmeric Ubtan
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons sandalwood powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 2 tablespoons chickpea flour (besan)
- 1 tablespoon rose water
Benefits:
Sandalwood has cooling properties and helps reduce pigmentation and blemishes. Combined with turmeric and besan, this ubtan brightens skin and controls oil. It’s perfect for acne-prone and oily skin types, providing a clear and radiant complexion.
7. Rice Flour and Yogurt Ubtan
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons rice flour
- 3 tablespoons yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon honey
Benefits:
Rice flour is a natural exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells and tighten pores. Yogurt moisturizes and adds lactic acid for gentle skin renewal. Honey soothes and fights bacteria. This ubtan hydrates while gently cleansing and brightening the skin.
8. Neem and Tulsi Ubtan
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon neem powder
- 1 tablespoon tulsi (holy basil) powder
- 2 tablespoons besan
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Benefits:
Neem and tulsi have powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making this ubtan ideal for acne-prone and sensitive skin. It helps control breakouts, purifies the skin, and calms redness and irritation.
How to Use Ubtan for Best Results
- Preparation: Mix the dry ingredients first, then add the liquids to form a smooth paste. Adjust the thickness as needed.
- Application: Apply ubtan evenly on your face and neck using gentle circular motions.
- Massage: Massage the paste gently for 2-3 minutes to exfoliate.
- Rest: Leave the ubtan on your skin for 15-20 minutes to let the ingredients work.
- Rinse: Wash off with lukewarm water and pat dry.
- Moisturize: Apply a natural moisturizer or aloe vera gel after washing.
Frequency: Use ubtan 1-2 times a week for glowing, healthy skin. Overuse may cause dryness, especially with turmeric.
Precautions
- Patch Test: Always do a patch test to check for allergic reactions.
- Turmeric Staining: Turmeric can temporarily stain skin or clothes. Use it sparingly and wash thoroughly.
- Skin Type Suitability: Customize ubtan ingredients according to your skin type to avoid irritation.
- Avoid Sun Exposure: After applying ubtan, avoid direct sun exposure or use sunscreen as turmeric can increase photosensitivity.
Conclusion
Homemade ubtan is a natural, affordable, and effective way to achieve glowing skin without harsh chemicals. From besan and turmeric to neem and tulsi, these 8 ubtan recipes offer a variety of benefits tailored to different skin types and concerns. Incorporate ubtan into your skincare routine regularly to enjoy radiant, healthy skin that reflects your natural beauty.
Try these desi skincare secrets today and embrace the glow!
