Long before face masks came in tubes and jars, Indian homes had ubtan. It is a fine herbal powder that is mixed into a paste, applied to the face and body, and gently rubbed off once it dries. It is still part of bridal rituals and everyday self-care today. Here is what ubtan is, how to use it, and how to make it a simple habit.
What is ubtan?
Ubtan is a traditional Ayurvedic cleansing powder made from herbs and natural ingredients. Instead of a foamy wash, it works as a gentle scrub and cleanser. It is used to lift away dirt, excess oil and dead skin cells, and to leave the skin feeling fresh, smooth and brighter-looking.
What ubtan can help with
- Helps remove dead skin cells for smoother-looking skin
- Helps reduce the look of tan from sun exposure
- Helps cleanse pores and reduce excess oil
- Supports a brighter, more even-looking glow
- Works on both face and body
Ubtan is a gentle, everyday-style skincare ritual, not a treatment for skin conditions. Results depend on your skin and how regularly you use it.
How to use ubtan at home
- Patch test first. Apply a little paste on your inner arm and wait a day to make sure your skin is comfortable with it.
- Make the paste. Take one to two teaspoons of ubtan powder in a clean bowl and mix it with rose water to a smooth, spreadable paste.
- Apply on clean skin. Spread it in an even layer over the face, neck and, if you like, the body. Avoid the eyes and lips.
- Let it dry. Leave it for about 10 to 15 minutes, until it just begins to dry. Do not let it dry fully and crack.
- Rinse gently. Wet your fingers and rub in light circles to lift the powder, then rinse with water. Pat your skin dry.
- Moisturise. Finish with your usual moisturiser or a little aloe gel.
Gopal Ubtan Powder is a traditional herbal ubtan that gently removes tan, dead skin and dirt, leaving the skin brighter and smoother. Use it as a face and body pack.
Pair it with a herbal bath powder
Ubtan is a once or twice a week ritual. For your daily bath, a herbal bath powder is a gentle alternative to soap. It cleanses the skin without leaving it feeling stripped, and helps keep it fresh through the day.
Silky Skin Tonic Powder is a herbal bath powder to use instead of soap. It gently cleanses the skin, helps with body odour and rashes, and leaves you feeling fresh all day.
A simple weekly routine
- Every day: Bathe with Silky Skin Tonic Powder, and drink enough water.
- Once or twice a week: Apply Gopal Ubtan Powder with rose water as a face and body pack.
- Always: Use sunscreen on exposed skin when you go out, and moisturise after cleansing.
Tips for best results
- Do not scrub hard. Ubtan does the work, so use light circles.
- Keep ubtan to once or twice a week. Daily use can leave skin feeling dry.
- If you have very sensitive skin or a skin condition, ask a doctor before trying new products.
- Store the powder in a cool, dry place and keep the box closed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use ubtan on my body too?
Yes. Ubtan can be used as a face and body pack. Apply it on clean skin, let it dry slightly, then rub off gently and rinse.
Can I mix ubtan with something other than rose water?
Rose water is a simple, gentle choice for most skin types. If you want to try something else, patch test first.
How soon will I see a glow?
Many people feel their skin is fresher and smoother after the first use. A brighter-looking glow usually builds with regular use over a few weeks.
Note: This article is for general information and is not medical advice. If you have a skin condition or a reaction to any product, stop using it and consult a doctor.