What Is Ubtan and How to Use It to Get Glowing Skin?

Ubtan is probably the oldest face mask known to humanity. It’s a mixture of dried and powdered Ayurvedic herbs, spices, chickpea flour, minerals, and other natural ingredients which are considered beneficial for skin health. Ubtan is a multi-purpose remedy that can be used as a skin cleaner, scrub, and a face or body mask.

A typical ubtan is made with two kinds of ingredients – a base of flour, starch or clay for exfoliation, and a blend of powdered Ayurvedic herbs for their skin-healing properties. Before use, it is mixed with water, carrier oil, milk, rose water, or other liquid to form a paste which is then applied to the skin.

Ubtan is very popular among women who prefer natural skincare products. They value it because it’s a delicate exfoliant, sulfate-free cleanser, and an amazing face mask packed with nutrients. Using ubtan is the most natural way to clean your skin, remove dead cells from the skin surface, and unclog pores.

In addition, ubtan can have different skincare benefits depending on the herbs it contains and the liquid you use to make a paste. A typical ubtan helps get rid of acne and prevent acne scars, combats pigmentation, soothes irritated skin, reduces inflammation, prevents premature skin aging, reduces facial hair, and makes the skin look fresh and glowing.

Some cosmetic brands offer ready-to-use ubtan mixes for different skin types, but if you like to experiment with homemade skincare products, you can try these DIY ubtan recipes.

Moisturizing Ubtan for Dry Skin

This ubtan is perfect for taking care of dry skin prone to irritation. If you have normal skin, you can use this ubtan in winter when most skin types are prone to dehydration and flaking.

Put 6–7 raw almonds in a small bowl of filtered water and leave them overnight to soak. In the morning, peel the almonds and grind them to a fine paste. Add 1 tsp besan (chickpea flour), 1 tsp red lentil powder, and ¼ tsp turmeric. Mix all ingredients together, then add 1 tbsp almond milk, 1 tbsp sweet almond oil, and 1 tbsp rose water. Stir well to get a moderately thick paste. You can increase or reduce the amount of liquids to achieve the desired consistency.

Apply the ubtan to clean skin and let it dry. Massage your face with gentle circular motions and rinse with lukewarm water.

Anti-Acne Ubtan for Oily and Combination Skin

Oily and combination skin is prone to acne breakouts. To keep your skin clear and blemish free, try this ubtan that helps normalize sebum secretion, balances the skin’s pH, and prevents acne and oily shine.

In a bowl, mix ½ tsp red lentil powder or chickpea flour, ½ tsp sandalwood powder, ¼ tsp neem powder, and ¼ tsp turmeric. Add 1 tbsp milk and 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice, mix well to make a smooth paste.

Apply the paste evenly to clean skin and wait until it dries off. Lightly wet your fingertips and massage your face with circular strokes. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat your face dry with a clean towel. To keep your skin acne-free, apply this ubtan twice a week in the evenings.

Whitening Ubtan for All Skin Types

This ubtan helps remove tan and unwanted pigmentation, lightens the skin, prevents acne scars, and improves complexion.

In a bowl, mix 1 tbsp chickpea flour, 1 tbsp sandalwood powder, 1 tbsp milk powder, and 1 tbsp turmeric. Add 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp vegetable milk, and 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix well to make a paste.

Apply the paste to your skin and let it sit for about 15–20 minutes. Massage your face and rinse with lukewarm water. For a visible effect, use this ubtan at least twice a week and more often in summer to combat tan.