Go Nature's Way

Beauty experts Neetha Bhoopalam and Simran Gujral share their views and recipes for natural skincare, telling us why it is a major trend the world over

- Neetha Bhoopalam and Simran Gujral

Nature has blessed us with abundance; each and every plant offers its own properties for skin nutrition. Ubtans are natural skin elixir powders widely used in Ayurveda for skin disorders like acne, tanning, and enhancing skin health. They help to remove dead skin cells and brighten up the skin. Using ubtans twice a week brings about consistent results to the skin.

Here is an easy homemade recipe which you can indulge in during these times, where going to a beauty parlour might be risky.

Easy ubtan powder recipe

Green gram - 100 gm Turmeric powder - 5 gm Dry rose petals - 20 gm Fennel seeds - 20 gm Dry neem leaves - 5 gm Dry hibiscus flowers - 5 gm Dry lemon peel - 5 gm Dry tulsi leaves - 5 gm

Method 1

Powder everything together coarsely. Store it in an airtight jar.

Method 2

Dry roast the green gram and fennel seeds for a few minutes. Cool and powder it with the rest of the herbs and botanicals. This method increases the shelf life to four months.

Usage:

Mix 2 spoons of herbal powder with a little water/milk.

Adding 1/4 tsp honey is optional. For an aromatherapy experience, 3 drops of lavender essential oil may be used. This helps to reduce the sensitivity of the skin, apart from helping you relax.

Mix all this into a fine paste and apply on the skin for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing off. This can be used on the face, neck, hands, and legs.

Note: Due to neem and tulsi, you might experience a bit of a burning sensation, which is normal. If your skin is sensitive, you can add cream and honey for a soothing experience.

Simran Gujral