There are lots of things we love about modern beauty practices. Smoothing blow-dries, glow-inducing sheet masks, and of course, gel manicures have made getting ready far less taxing- but there are a few beauty gems from the past that have stood the test of time. We’ve scoured the globe from East to West to find old-school beauty rituals that are relevant even today.
Don’t worry – we’re not suggesting you bathe in honey and milk à la Cleopatra. The beauty rituals listed below are more about understanding the importance of ancient, natural-based practices that have withstood the test of time – because they work! From Indian ubtans to Iceland’s hot spring therapy and Moroccan Argan oil- every country has its own beauty secrets that the world loves. Ahead, find eight such treatments and ingredients that work just effectively in your skincare routine even today.
7 Skincare Practices From India & Around The World That We’ll Love Forever!
Indian Ubtans
Use in pre-wedding ceremonies even today, ubtans are known to be excellent cleansers for the face and body. They are formulated keeping your Ayurveda dosha in mind to also balance your skin when you use them. Ubtans are usually a blend of chickpea flour to cleanse, turmeric or sandalwood to brighten, and milk or rose water to tone and exfoliate. St. botanica stocks an ubtan face mask if you prefer buying a packaged one instead of making your own.
Olive Oil & Yoghurt From Greece
ICYDK, Greek yoghurt isn’t only a delight to eat but its also a beauty hero. It acts as an effective face mask. Yoghurt contains lactic acid that gently exfoliates the skin while olive oil nourishes the skin. The mixture can also be used as post-sun care to soothe burns. Honey can also be added with either of these two ingredients or can be used as a trio.
Neem From India
Also known as ‘Sarva roga nivarini’ meaning the cure of all ailments, the vitamin- and antioxidant-rich leaves acts as a purifier. Whether it tackling acne and oiliness, giving you glowy skin or fighting dandruff – the natural ingredient is seriously a crowd please today!
Rose Quartz From Egypt
The rollers and jade gua sha may be part of ancient Chinese traditions but rose quartz is known to be first loved by Egyptian royalty. As per history, Cleopatra used to shower with these crystals because of their healing properties while Goddess Isis used them to massage her face for their toning and anti-ageing properties.
Moroccan Argan Oil
The potent oil is sourced from the Argan trees in Morocco. It’s rich in minerals, vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants that make it beneficial for both skin and hair. You’ve most likely heard of its benefits for hair, thanks to the haircare brand Moroccanoil. The oil, however, is also known to calm skin, making it perf for folks suffering from psoriasis or rosacea.
China’s Pearl Powder
Seen tubes and bottles with formulas that say they’re pearl-infused? The precious ingredient has been used in China for thousands of years as a collagen-booster and skin-brightening agent. Pearl powder can either be consumed orally or blended into skin care products and applied topically.
Minerals Found In Hop Springs In Iceland
Iceland is home to a number of hot springs with mineral-rich water that’s known to offer myriads of skin benefits. Indulging in the geothermal spas in Iceland helps relax your body and soothes your skin. Brands like Medicine Springs Mineral Therapy have created products made from the mineral extracted from the water of the hot springs – so you can reap its benefits from the comfort of your home – no visa required!
Bring on the glow!
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