Long before serums and retinol, Indian skincare relied on Kumkumadi Tailam. It is still one of the most popular Ayurvedic face oils, and for good reason. Here are five reasons it has earned a place in so many night routines, and how to use it well.
What is Kumkumadi Tailam?
"Kumkuma" means saffron. Kumkumadi Tailam is a classical oil described in Ayurvedic texts, made by slow-cooking saffron and other herbs in a sesame oil base with milk and herbal decoctions, a method called Tail Pak Vidhi. Each brand's recipe varies; ours follows the classical 24-herb formula.
What are the benefits of Kumkumadi Tailam?
1. A brighter-looking complexion
Saffron and sandalwood have been used in Indian skincare for centuries to help skin look radiant. Many customers say their skin looks brighter within 4 to 6 weeks of regular use.
2. A more even-looking skin tone
Herbs like Manjistha, Mulethi and Rakta Chandan are traditionally used to help reduce the look of dark spots and uneven tone over time.
3. Soft, nourished skin
The sesame oil base and herbs nourish the skin, which helps with dryness and a tight feeling, especially in winter or air-conditioned rooms.
4. Light and quick to absorb
Our Kumkumadi Golden Face Elixir is made to feel light: it is less greasy and absorbs quickly, so you can leave it on without a heavy feel.
5. A calming night ritual
A 2-minute face massage with a warm, saffron-scented oil is a simple way to wind down, and gentle massage itself helps skin look fresher.
What is in Saabhi Kumkumadi Golden Face Elixir?
| Key ingredient | Traditional role |
|---|---|
| Kesar (saffron) | Radiance, the heart of the formula |
| Shwet and Rakta Chandan (sandalwood) | Cooling, even-looking tone |
| Manjistha | Clear-looking skin |
| Mulethi (licorice) | Brightening, soothing |
| Haridra, Daruhaldi, Lodhra, Padmaka and 15 more | Classical supporting herbs |
All 24 herbs are slow-cooked by Tail Pak Vidhi in a 30 ml bottle, and every ingredient is listed on the product page. It is manufactured under AYUSH licence. It is not vegan: it contains beeswax, lac and Gorochana.
How do I use Kumkumadi oil?
- Cleanse your face at night and pat dry.
- Warm 3 to 4 drops between your fingertips.
- Massage into face and neck in upward circles for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Either rinse with a mild cleanser after 30 to 60 minutes, or, for better results, leave it on overnight and wash in the morning.
- Use sunscreen during the day.
Want more? Try it in a weekly face pack: see Ayurvedic face packs with Kumkumadi oil.
What does the research say?
An exploratory 2026 study used instruments to measure pigmentation, redness and elasticity in people using Kumkumadi Taila, with encouraging early results [1]. Manjistha has been reviewed for its traditional uses and antioxidant compounds [2]. This research is early and not on our formula, so think of Kumkumadi as a nourishing part of your 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. Front Pharmacol. PubMed
Who should be careful with Kumkumadi oil?
Explore the hair and skin range.
