Venustas Essentials : Royal Ubtan

 

Based on an Ayurvedic beauty recipe called an UBTAN , this skin food/scrub/mask is a brilliant base for cleansing, refining, invigorating and rejuvenating the skin. 

ABOUT THE BRAND

Learn more about Venustas Essentials HERE!

KEY INGREDIENTS & THEIR BENEFITS

• Almond Powder: Rich in vitamin A, almonds have moisturizing and emollient properties that are a wonderful way to nourish the skin while providing gentle exfoliation and promote the natural turnover of skin cells (1). Almonds can cleanse the skin by eliminating toxins and free radicals from your body. The various antioxidants in almonds possess anti-ageing properties which help in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. The vitamin E component is considered a skin food as it nourishes the skin, keeping it smooth and glowing, can help to remove fine lines and wrinkles. It can also lighten age spots and other blemishes on the skin. (2,3).

• Saffron: Saffron has anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant properties which make it an ideal ingredient for treating acne (4). Rich in exfoliating properties, saffron helps lighten scars and spots left behind from old wounds, cuts or acne eruptions (4). It also improves the quality of your skin by removing the dirt and impurities and tones the skin (4).

• Dried Rose Petals: Has antibacterial and anti inflammatory properties that can help treat acne and acne prone skin, reduce swollen spots, redness and has skin calming properties (5). Rose is especially beneficial for sensitive skin because the sugars in its petals create a soothing feeling (5).

• Red Sandalwood Extracts: A virtual ware house of goodness and has antiseptic, astringent, anti inflammatory and disinfectant properties (6). It’s powerful antimicrobial property, which means it can help kill the bacteria that cause acne. The antiseptic quality of sandalwood benefits to treat rashes, acne, blackheads and other skin eruptions, its germicidal quality inhibits the growth of bacteria (6). It is also a natural astringent, helping tone up the skin (6). An emollient, sandalwood soothes and softens skin, helping it hold onto water to stays hydrated longer (7).

• Powdered Milk: An excellent exfoliant, milk contains natural alpha hydroxy acids, which mildly scourges excess dead cells off the skin's surface, revealing soft skin underneath (8). Abundant source of proteins (whey and casein), fat, amino acids, lactic acid and vitamins A and D, all of which calm dry skin and help reduce redness and soothe irritated skin (9). Lactic acid present in milk helps dissolve inactive protein and breaks down dead cells, thereby exfoliating skin cells and hydrates, increasing natural barrier lipids in the outer layer of skin, while lightening and brightening skin for those with age spots or darkened areas (10). The protein and fat lubricates and softens rough skin, solving dryness.

• Clay Mix (Bentonite & Fullers Earth): Clay makes a fabulous facial mask, for shrinking pores, tightening and toning skin, removing impurities and sloughing off dead skin cells. It can also be used directly on pimples to reduce their size and inflammation and get rid of them faster (11).

• Wild Turmeric (Kasturi Manjal): It has anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatory, anti-septic and anti-bacterial properties due to which it is used to as a cure for acne and acne marks, as a scrub in conjunction with other exfoliating agents, as an anti-ageing agent, to help removing facial peach fuzz and as a remedy for removing sun tan (12). 

• Essential Oil of Rose: Perfectly balanced between the omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids (EFAs) – essential in keeping skin hydrated and firm. EFAs help to eliminate damaging and aging inflammation redness associated with scarring and broken capillaries while also renewing cell membranes and regenerating the skin (an anti-aging key) (13,14). It also contains transretinoic acid (a form of Vitamin A) responsible for skin smoothing wrinkles, rejuvenating skin, as well as lightening age spots and stretch marks. It can also help with itching skin, it’s antiseptic properties help treat acne and other skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and wound healing (13).

• Essential Oil of Sandalwood: A cicatrisant, the essential oil of sandalwood soothes the skin and has the ability to promote cell regeneration, helping to eliminate scars and other dark marks on the skin. Its antimicrobial property helps prevent acne, soothe redness and inflammation, hydrates without clogging pores, tighten, and regenerate skin cells to produce a softer, smoother, and firmer look (7).

The product come sin a 50 gm tub packaging with a screw on top and an inner protective lid that prevents any spillage making it a sound travel partner. 

Powdery and dry in consistency, the face pack is gritty in texture, reddish yellow in color and has a delicate fragrance of roses. Upon closer observation, one can notice almonds bits and rose petals. 

To use: Mix 1/2-1 tsp of ubtan with 1/4-1/2 tsp of raw milk, yogurt, or floral hydrosols.  I prefer to use either yoghurt or raw milk due to them being rich in good fats and skin refining acids. Massage onto damp skin, rinse off or leave on for ten minutes and rinse with tepid water.the face pack can safely be used 1-2 times a week. 

Upon my request, a couple of weeks ago, Seema had sent me a sample of the royal ubtan. That batch was finer in texture and did not have any distinguishable fragrance. Though similar in formulation & efficacy, I have to say I prefer the current batch of face pack that I have received. Its grittier in texture due to the coarsely ground almonds and has a gorgeous aroma of roses. The product can most certainly fulfill the role as a facial cleanser, scrub  & a mask. 

Abundant in vitamin E, silica, anti-oxidants, phyto-nutrients, amino acid peptides, ceramides, essential fatty acids and probiotics, the ubtan is very effective for all skin types but specifically for acne prone ones. The ingredients work in tandem to clarify the skin, draw heat from the blood and stimulate lymph flow, exfoliate, firm & tone the skin, give radiance to the skin, helps prevent acne & leaves skin baby soft, smooth and supple.  Upon application, the face pack does have a yellowish tinge due to the wild turmeric but does not stain the skin in any way. 

Prepared from a traditional formulation of natural herbs, the ubtan aptly named, nourishes the skin while providing it a royal glow.

*Product sent as PR sample*

K Organics : Kids Body Wash (Ubtan)

Ubtans are natural soap free cleansers without any synthetic perfumes, colors, or chemicals of any sort. It is blended with natural & mild cleansers in the form of potent herbs, to care for the skin. The finely milled herbs provide deep cleansing, brightening the complexion by gently removing impurities, dirt revealing a beautifully polished & glowing skin.

KEY INGREDIENTS & THEIR PROPERTIES

• Rosa (Dried Rose Petals): Rose petals are a great source of antioxidants and vitamin C, which can help firm and tone your skin, as well as reduce the appearance of wrinkles (1). They contain an essential oil that moisturizes and hydrates; antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that de-puff and decrease redness; and finally, alpha hydroxy acids that exfoliate and tighten pores (2). Rose is great for dry skin, as it helps increase its ability to hold onto hydration. The natural oils in rose help trap moisture onto skin, making it look and feel smoother. Rose is especially beneficial for sensitive skin because the sugars in its petals create a soothing feeling (3).

• Prunus Dulcis (Almond Powder): Almond flour is a wonderful way to nourish the skin while providing gentle exfoliation and promote the natural turnover of skin cells. Almonds can cleanse the skin by eliminating toxins and free radicals from your body. The various antioxidants in almonds possess anti-ageing properties which help in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. The Vitamin E component is considered a skin food as it nourishes the skin, keeping it smooth and glowing, can help to remove fine lines and wrinkles. It can also lighten age spots and other blemishes on the skin (1,2).

• Sandalwood: A virtual ware house of goodness and has antiseptic, astringent, anti inflammatory and disinfectant properties (3). The antiseptic quality of sandalwood benefits to treat rashes, acne, blackheads and other skin eruptions, its germicidal quality inhibits the growth of bacteria (3). It is also a natural astringent, especially for oily skin and also helps in toning up the skin (3).

• Vigna Radiata (Green Gram Flour):  Rich in vitamins A and C, it rejuvenates the skin by nourishing and exfoliating it (4). Applied topically, moong dal is a great way to soothe dry skin and retain its lost moisture. It is packed with cell rejuvenating vitamins and enzymes that help to lock in moisture into the skin (4). Its exfoliating properties help lighten the skin (de-tan) and get rid of fine facial hair. It also prevents the pores of your skin from clogging up with oil or dirt and draws out impurities from the skin and skin pores preventing acne (4). It’s antiseptic properties along with being cooling and soothing that can heal your skin and keep it looking fresh and glowing (4).

The soap free  kids body wash comes in a 150 gm vacuum sealed package. Once opened, I transfer the contents to an airtight container.  

Greyish-brown in color with a mildly coarse texture, the ubtan has delicate rose and sandalwood aroma to it. 

To use, I take the desired ubtan with a wooden spoon and bring it to a paste like consistency with water and use it for my daughter in place of soap. I do add a spoonful of kasturi manjal (wild turmeric) to the paste due to its wonderful skin healing and rejuvenating properties.

This ultra-gentle nutrient-rich, cleansing mixture of herbs, flowers and grain powders, helps cleanse, nourish, and purify the baby's skin. I employ this ubtan in place of  soap after oiling her skin. This daily nourishing bath powder works effectively to remove excess oil but does not strip her skin of its natural oils leaving it soft and supple. I do prefer to follow up with a moisturizer.

Overall a super fine blend of botanicals assured safe and nourishing for baby's tender skin.

Ida Naturals : Skin Glow Pack

Face packs are one of the oldest and beautiful methods of cleansing skin that have nourishing, healing, cleaning, astringent and antiseptic properties. Often used as a preventive, promotive and curative agent for any skin problems, this face mask by Ida Natural’s is unique in that in addition to being a soap free cleanser, it also doubles as a body ubtan for adults.

ABOUT THE BRAND

Learn more about Ida Naturals HERE!

KEY INGREDIENTS & THEIR BENEFITS

• Wild Turmeric (Kasturi Manjal): It has anti-oxidants, anti-inflammatory, anti-septic and anti-bacterial properties due to which it is used to as a cure for acne and acne marks, as a scrub in conjunction with other exfoliating agents, as an anti-ageing agent, to help removing facial peach fuzz and as a remedy for removing sun tan (1). Curcumin - the alkaloidal content of turmeric prevents and cures pigmentation, maintains the pH balance and adds gow to the skin (1).

• Green Gram Flour: Rich in vitamins A and C, it rejuvenates the skin by nourishing and exfoliating it (2). Applied topically, moong dal is a great way to soothe dry skin and retain its lost moisture. It is packed with cell rejuvenating vitamins and enzymes that help to lock in moisture into the skin (2). Its exfoliating properties help lighten the skin (de-tan) and get rid of fine facial hair. It also prevents the pores of your skin from clogging up with oil or dirt and draws out impurities from the skin and skin pores preventing acne (2). It’s antiseptic properties along with being cooling and soothing that can heal your skin and keep it looking fresh and glowing (2).

• Vetiver: A “cicatrisant,” it can speed up the disappearance of scars, dark spots, and other marks on the skin, helping to create a more even skin tone (3). It works to heal the old wound and regenerate new tissues. Vetiver also provides:

• Acne treatment by naturally killing bacteria and helping calm inflammation associated with acne (3).
• Moisturization: The oil is nourishing and hydrating, helping to soothe dry, cracking skin. Furthermore, it helps skin hold onto moisture, gradually increasing skin’s water content over time (3).
• Anti-bacterial action: Bacteria, fungus, and other harmful microbes have no chance against vetiver. It kills these bugs—including Staphylococcus Aureus—helping to heal skin wounds more quickly. It has even been used to combat lice (3).
• Support for connective tissues: As part of its skin regeneration abilities, vetiver helps support and strengthen the connective tissues in skin, gradually reducing the sagging and bagging that happens with aging, helping skin to appear firmer and more youthful (3).
• Protection: Like most plant oils, vetiver contains antioxidants, which helps to protect skin from damaging free radicals (3).

• Davanam (Artemisia pallen): Has skin rejuvenating properties and has found to be effective in the treatment of acne, because of its antibacterial properties (4).

• Aavaram Senna (Tanner's Cassia): Avaram Senna flower is a natural source of antioxidants and the flower extract contains terpenoids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, cardiac glycosides and steroid (5). Saponins found in the flower extract is a natural antimicrobial compound that fights against fungal and microbial infections (5). Dried Aavaram Senna flower when used in topically prevents black spots, treats uneven skin tone and improves skin complexion (5).

• Rose Petals: Has antibacterial and anti inflammatory properties that can help treat acne and acne prone skin, reduce swollen spots, redness and has skin calming properties(6). Rose is especially beneficial for  sensitive skin because the sugars in its petals create a soothing feeling (6).

• Champaka Petals (Magnolia Champaca): Provides relief from itching, had excellent active ingredients to treat mature skin types (7).

• Jasmine Petals: Long used for its health benefits as well as its lovely smell, jasmine has also been found to nourish skin, help fade the appearance of scars, and protect skin from damage that can lead to premature aging (8). A natural antiseptic, jasmine contains natural components that fight fungus, bacteria, viruses, and other germs and serves as a natural preservative in sin care products (8). Because of its antioxidants, jasmine can help protect your skin from damaging free radicals from the sun and environmental pollution helping preserve the youthful appearance of the skin (8). The oil is very effective in treating and fading scar marks, old wound scars & stretch marks (8). Additionally, the oil helps treat dry skin and provide natural moisture and is particularly great for dry, greasy, or sensitive skin, as it helps to balance all types without irritating (8).

The skin glow pack comes in a variety of sizes, but to start off with I chose the 50 gm format which comes in a transparent plastic container with a screw on top. The salient features of the pack are listed on the label. Powdery and dry, the pack has a smooth texture and smells predominantly of kasturi manjal mingled with other herbal aromas.

To use, I scoop out the required quantity with a wooden spatula, add milk and blend it to a paste like consistency and massage it on moist skin in circular motions. If I use the pack exclusively for my face, I blend using either milk or toner  liquid and add a teaspoon of honey to the blend.

The aroma of the herbal face pack is very reminiscent of my childhood when my grandmom used to bathe me with a similar herbal preparation. I prefer to use the pack for my body, similarly as an ubtan. A soap free cleanser, it gently exfoliates with out stripping the skin of its natural oils leaving behind a natural glow. Due to the stellar ingredient list, I have found it has helped clearing my skin specifically my "bacacne" (back acne) and has reduced tanning. To see visible results, one needs to be consistent and patient. I use this pack at least once or twice in a week.

Its revitalizing, refreshing & refining properties, makes this pack a must try product!