Modern skincare trends may come and go, but ancient beauty rituals? They’ve stood the test of time. Long before the rise of sheet masks and retinols, women across civilisations were mixing oils, powders, and plant-based goodies into their self-care routines and glowing effortlessly. From Egyptian queens to Indian maharanis, these beauty secrets weren’t just about looking good, they were about connecting with nature, slowing down, and taking care of yourself inside-out. Here are a few ancient beauty traditions that are still total game changers today, no fancy packaging, no filters, just real results.
6 ancient beauty traditions that still work
Milk baths
Found in: Ancient EgyptWhy it works: Cleopatra didn’t have serums, but she had milk and it did the trick. It’s known to leave the skin feeling soft, smooth, and pampered. A warm milk soak, infused with rose petals and honey, was her signature beauty move. Honestly, queen behaviour.
Turmeric masks
Found in: Ancient India Why it works: Desi households have been using turmeric for generations, not just in cooking but for glowing skin. Brides still apply haldi before their wedding day to brighten and purify their skin. It calms redness, fades marks, and leaves behind that unmistakable “healthy glow.”
Rose water
Found in: Persia, India, and the Middle East Why it works: Rose water was like the ancient version of micellar water, minus the chemicals. It cools, hydrates, and adds a soft freshness to the skin. From Mughal queens to our nanis, everyone had a bottle stashed somewhere. Still does.
Multani mitti (Fuller’s earth)
Found in: Ancient India and the Middle East Why it works: Got oily skin or the occasional breakout? Multani mitti is a go-to. It’s like a natural clay mask that soaks up excess oil, clears out pores, and leaves your face feeling super clean, without the tight, dry aftermath.
Sesame oil
Found in: Ancient Ayurvedic textsWhy it works: Used in daily abhyanga (oil massage), sesame oil nourishes the skin, strengthens the body, and promotes a deep sense of calm. Warmed slightly, it melts away stress and dryness. Think of it as your body’s love language.
Aloe vera
Found in: Ancient Egypt, India, and ChinaWhy it works: Whether it’s a sunburn, a breakout, or a dull-skin day, aloe has your back. Ancient cultures called it the “plant of immortality,” and let’s be honest, it does feel magical when you apply that cool gel on your skin. Still a bathroom-shelf favourite.The world may have moved on to 17-step routines and high-tech serums, but there’s something beautifully grounding about going back to the basics. Amidst all the noise of modern skincare, ancient beauty secrets remind us of a simpler truth: effective skincare doesn’t need to be complicated. It just needs to be consistent, natural, and rooted in genuine care. From Ayurvedic rituals to timeless oils and herbs passed down through generations, these traditional remedies have stood the test of time for a reason. They weren’t just about looking good, they were about balance, nourishment, and respecting your body. So the next time your skin acts up or your shelf feels overwhelming? Trust your ancestors. They knew what they were doing and they probably looked incredible doing it.Also read| 5 Best homemade body scrubs for glowing skin you can make today
