This is Part 17 of Beauty Secrets of India, our 20-part series on traditional beauty rituals from across the country. New here? Start with Part 1: Kerala Coconut Oil Hair Ritual, or read the previous instalment, Part 16: Abhyanga.
In many Indian kitchens, the ghee jar is also the first-aid kit for chapped lips. A dab of ghee (clarified butter) before bed, a smear of malai on winter cheeks, or warm ghee rubbed into cracked heels are some of the most common home beauty habits in the country.
Why ghee works for dry skin
Ghee is almost pure fat. A thin layer acts as an occlusive, sealing in moisture and protecting dry, chapped skin from wind and cold. It is a similar idea to petroleum jelly or a rich balm, with a nutty smell and an ingredient you already have.
Traditional uses
- Lips: A tiny amount massaged into the lips at night.
- Heels and hands: Warm ghee rubbed into cracked heels, then socks on overnight. Our hand and foot care routine has more ideas.
- Malai face massage: Fresh cream skimmed from boiled milk, massaged into dry cheeks before a bath.
- Navel oiling: Placing a drop of ghee or oil in the navel at night is a popular tradition, sometimes called nabhi oiling. Many people find it relaxing, though the claims made for it are traditional beliefs and not supported by studies.
- Shata dhauta ghrita: In Ayurveda, ghee is washed a hundred times with water to make a light, whipped cream used for skin. Some Ayurvedic pharmacies sell it ready-made.
A simple ghee lip routine
- Gently exfoliate dry lips once a week with a soft wet cloth, or a little sugar mixed with honey.
- At night, warm a pea-sized amount of ghee between your fingertips.
- Massage it into your lips for a minute and leave it on.
- Use a lip balm with SPF in the day, since ghee offers no sun protection.
Who should skip it
- Avoid ghee and malai on acne-prone or very oily skin. Rich fats can clog pores.
- Use only fresh, clean ghee. Rancid ghee smells sour and can irritate skin.
- Skip it if you have a dairy allergy that affects your skin.
For a full routine, read soft lips all year, and revisit the malai packs in Part 7: Besan and Malai Packs.
Patch test first: dab a little of any DIY mix on your inner forearm and wait 24 hours before using it on your face or scalp. These rituals are shared as cultural and personal-care traditions, not medical treatment. For persistent skin or hair problems, see a dermatologist.
Next in the series: Part 18: Methi Hair Mask.
