5 desi ubtans for that youthful glow

When it comes to skincare, our dadi and nani really knew their stuff. Long before sheet masks and 10-step routines took over Instagram, Indian women were relying on their good old ubtans, homemade scrubs and masks made from kitchen ingredients that could put the fanciest facials to shame. And honestly, no matter how many international serums we try, there’s something about these desi ubtans that just hits differently. They are natural, they’re effective, and they’ve stood the test of time.

If you are chasing that lit-from-within glow (without burning a hole in your pocket), these five ubtans are your best bet. Let’s dive right in.

If there’s one ubtan that deserves the crown, it’s the haldi-besan combo. Chances are, you’ve already been slathered with it at a cousin’s wedding during the haldi ceremony. But trust me, this mix is not just for brides, it works like magic for everyone.

Turmeric (haldi) is loaded with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it the ultimate glow booster and acne fighter. Besan (gram flour), on the other hand, gently exfoliates, removing dead skin and tan while tightening the skin. Add a spoonful of curd or milk, and you’ve got yourself a smooth paste that brightens your face instantly.

How to use: Mix 2 spoons of besan with ½ spoon of haldi and enough milk or curd to make a paste. Apply it evenly on your face and neck, let it dry, and wash off with lukewarm water. (Image Credits: Pinterest)

This one is pure nostalgia. Remember those days when your mom or dadi kept a little bottle of rosewater in the fridge? Pair it with chandan (sandalwood powder), and you’ve got a luxurious, cooling ubtan that feels like a mini spa session at home.

Sandalwood helps in soothing irritated skin, reducing blemishes, and giving a natural brightness. Rosewater acts as a toner, balancing the skin’s pH and adding hydration. Together, they create a mask that smells divine and leaves your skin looking refreshed and radiant.

How to use: Take 1 spoon of sandalwood powder and mix it with rosewater to form a paste. Apply on your face and neck for 15 minutes, then wash off.

For anyone struggling with oily or acne-prone skin, this ubtan is your saviour. Multani mitti (Fuller’s earth) is famous for soaking up excess oil and tightening pores, while neem is a powerhouse herb with antibacterial properties that fights pimples and prevents breakouts.

This combination not only clears the skin but also keeps it cool and detoxified. It’s especially great for hot Indian summers when your skin feels sticky and greasy all the time.

How to use: Blend neem leaves into a paste or use neem powder. Mix it with multani mitti and rosewater. Apply and let it dry completely before rinsing with cold water.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

If your skin often feels dry and dull, this rich and creamy ubtan is perfect for you. Almonds are packed with Vitamin E, which nourishes the skin deeply and improves elasticity. Milk, with its lactic acid, gently exfoliates while keeping the skin hydrated and soft.

This ubtan not only adds glow but also reduces fine lines, making your skin look plump and youthful. Honestly, it feels like feeding your skin a glass of badam milk!

How to use: Soak 5-6 almonds overnight, grind them into a paste the next morning, and mix with 2-3 spoons of raw milk. Apply this smooth paste as a mask and wash off after 20 minutes.

For those who prefer mild exfoliation, oats and honey make a dreamy pair. Oats help in removing dead skin cells and calming irritation, while honey is a natural humectant that locks in moisture and gives you that soft, dewy finish. This ubtan is perfect for sensitive skin and works wonders during winter when your face feels dry and flaky.

Plus, honey has antibacterial properties, so it keeps little breakouts in check while making your skin glow.

How to use: Grind oats into a coarse powder, add a spoon of honey, and mix with a little milk or rosewater. Massage gently onto the skin and leave it on for 10–15 minutes before rinsing.

Things to remember

Always do a patch test before trying a new ubtan, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Apply ubtans on a clean face for maximum results.

Don’t overdo it, 2–3 times a week is more than enough.

Use lukewarm water to wash off, and follow up with a light moisturiser.

And most importantly, consistency is key. You won’t wake up looking like Alia Bhatt after one application, but regular use really makes a difference.

Desi ubtans aren’t just about skincare; they’re about tradition, nostalgia, and the beauty wisdom that’s been passed down through generations. The best part? They are natural, pocket-friendly, and actually work. Whether you’re prepping for a wedding, a festive celebration, or just want your everyday glow back, these five ubtans are all you need.

So next time you’re tempted to splurge on yet another fancy face mask, maybe take a quick trip to your kitchen first. Chances are, your nani’s recipe might just beat that expensive jar sitting on your shelf.