Ubtan powder works as both a mild exfoliant and a skin brightener. Here's exactly how to mix and apply it, how long to leave it on, and tips for different skin types.

What ubtan is — before the how-to

Ubtan is a paste made from ground herbal ingredients — typically turmeric (haldi), chickpea flour, and various botanicals depending on the recipe. It has been used in South Asian skincare for centuries, both as a regular skin polish and as part of pre-wedding rituals.

It works as a mild exfoliant: the grain of the ingredients removes dead skin cells, while turmeric and other actives address uneven tone and inflammation underneath.

What you need

  • 1 teaspoon ubtan powder
  • Rose water (preferred) or plain water
  • A small bowl
  • Optional: a drop of honey for dry skin

Step-by-step application

  1. Mix the paste — add rose water gradually until you have a smooth, spreadable consistency. About 1 teaspoon powder to 1–1.5 teaspoons rose water. It should be thick enough to stay on your face, not runny.
  2. Cleanse first — wash your face with plain water to remove surface oil. Pat dry.
  3. Apply evenly — spread with fingertips, avoiding the eye area. Apply to neck as well if you like.
  4. Leave for 10–15 minutes — let it dry slightly but not fully crack (which feels tight and is harder to remove).
  5. Massage and rinse — dampen hands and massage in gentle circular motions for 1–2 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water. This is the exfoliation step.
  6. Moisturise — apply a light moisturiser while skin is still slightly damp. Ubtan can leave skin feeling tight if you skip this, especially in dry weather.

How often to use it

2–3 times per week for most skin types. Daily use over-exfoliates. If your skin is sensitive, start once a week.

Tips by skin type

  • Dry skin — add a small amount of honey or almond oil to the mix. Avoid leaving it on until fully dry.
  • Oily skin — plain rose water works well. You can leave it on slightly longer (up to 20 minutes).
  • Sensitive skin — do a patch test first. Start with shorter application times.

Note on turmeric staining

Ubtan with turmeric can temporarily stain light skin yellow. This fades within an hour or two. If it's a concern, apply in the evening or rinse thoroughly.

Our Skin Polish Ubtan Powder contains haldi (turmeric), goat milk, and a herbal ubtan blend. Mix with rose water and apply as above. COD available.

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