Skin20 min
Kesar Chandan Ubtan Before a Festival or Wedding
A traditional ubtan of besan, sandalwood, a few saffron strands and milk, used before a festival or haldi ceremony for soft, glowing skin.
What to know about saffron
Kesar (saffron) is the dried stigma of the crocus flower, used a few strands at a time in milk, sweets and ubtan. Small studies suggest a mild mood benefit; it is costly and often faked.
Ubtan is the original Indian body scrub. Besan cleanses gently, chandan cools, and saffron soaked in milk gives colour and fragrance. Rub off gently, never scrub hard.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp besan
- 1 tsp sandalwood powder
- 5 saffron strands soaked in 2 tbsp milk
- A pinch of turmeric (optional)
How to prepare
- Soak saffron in warm milk for 15 minutes.
- Mix with besan, sandalwood and turmeric into a thick paste.
How to use
- Apply on face, arms and neck; leave until nearly dry (10 to 15 minutes).
- Moisten with water and rub off gently in circles, then rinse.
Helpful habits
- Real saffron releases colour slowly in warm milk; fake strands bleed red at once.
Precautions
- Patch-test first, especially before a big event.
- Use only a few strands; large amounts are unsafe, especially in pregnancy.
- Patch-test on the inner arm 24 hours before using on the face.
- If you take regular medicines or have a long-term condition, check with your doctor first.
Frequently asked questions
How many days before the event should I start?
- Two or three times in the week before is enough.
Can I use it on the whole body?
- Yes, make a larger batch.
How many strands are enough?
- Three to five strands per cup.
