Long before serums, Indian homes used besan, haldi, chandan and honey to care for skin. Adding a few drops of Kumkumadi Golden Face Elixir, a saffron-based classical face oil, makes these packs more nourishing. Here are four simple recipes and how to fit them into your week.
Which face pack suits my skin type?
| Skin type | Face pack | Kumkumadi oil |
|---|---|---|
| Normal or combination | 2 tsp besan + 1 tbsp curd + a pinch of haldi | 2 to 3 drops |
| Dry | 1 tsp honey + 1 tbsp fresh aloe vera gel | 3 drops |
| Oily | 1 tbsp multani mitti + rose water to make a paste | 1 drop, or skip in the pack |
| Dull-looking | 1 tsp sandalwood (chandan) powder + raw milk or rose water | 2 drops |
How do I apply an Ayurvedic face pack?
- Cleanse your face with a mild cleanser and pat dry.
- Mix the pack fresh, adding the Kumkumadi oil last.
- Apply an even layer, avoiding the eyes and lips.
- Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes. Do not let clay packs crack completely.
- Rinse with lukewarm water, using gentle circles.
- Pat dry and moisturise, or follow with your Kumkumadi night routine.
How do I use Kumkumadi oil on its own?
Apply 3 to 4 drops to a clean face and neck and massage in upward circles for 1 to 2 minutes. You can rinse it off with a mild cleanser after 30 to 60 minutes, or, for better results, leave it on overnight and wash your face in the morning. Use it at night, and wear sunscreen during the day.
What is in Kumkumadi Golden Face Elixir?
It follows the classical Kumkumadi Tailam recipe with 24 herbs, including Kesar (saffron), Shwet and Rakta Chandan, Manjistha and Mulethi, slow-cooked by Tail Pak Vidhi. It feels light, is less greasy and absorbs quickly. It is manufactured under AYUSH licence, and every ingredient is listed on the product page. It is not vegan: it contains beeswax, lac and Gorochana.
What does the research say?
An exploratory 2026 study measured skin pigmentation, redness and elasticity with instruments in people using Kumkumadi Taila, with encouraging early results [1]. Manjistha, one of its herbs, has been reviewed for its traditional uses and its antioxidant compounds [2]. These are early findings, mostly not on our formula, so think of Kumkumadi as part of a good skin routine rather than a treatment.
- Kulangara S et al. (2026). Kumkumadi Taila improves facial skin pigmentation, erythema and elasticity: an instrument-based exploratory proof-of-concept study. Front Med. PubMed
- Wen M et al. (2022). A comprehensive review of Rubia cordifolia L.: traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities and clinical applications. Front Pharmacol. PubMed
What mistakes should I avoid?
- Using undiluted lemon juice or baking soda on your face.
- Using a face pack every day; once or twice a week is enough.
- Adding too much haldi, which can stain.
- Skipping the patch test on your inner arm 24 hours before first use.
- Applying packs or oils on broken, sunburnt or inflamed skin.
Read about the benefits of Kumkumadi Tailam, or explore the hair and skin range.
