At its most basic, uptan is a face pack that is used all over the body to remove impurities, cleanse it, and to tighten the pores. This means that sagging skin is tightened, and a glow is added to the face after the paste has been washed off.

It is traditional not only for brides but also bridegrooms to have uptan applied to their bodies and faces preparatory to their wedding, a ritual in which the whole family joins in. The conventional uptan paste consists of turmeric powder, barley, mustard oil and water, whisked into a paste. It should be applied all over the body, though it can also be applied only on the face, and allowed to dry.

However, it should hp wash~ddd nff aftpr ahrmt-. Sun-baths hold important curative properties twenty minutes, otherwise the turmeric can stain the skin a bilious yellow, instead of simply adding a glow to the skin.

In the past, the women of the palace would use a daily application of milk, cream, sandalwood powder, yoghurt and essence of flowers to keep their complexions glowing. These are simple therapies that can be practiced by oneself, though it gives one a pampered feeling to have someone else apply these pastes and then wash them off with cold water, followed by a bath in which oil essences have been added.

Akin toaromatherapy, these are extremely relaxing. Lotions can be prepared with an application of rose petals, jasmine flowers, saffron, sandalwood, khus-khus, drops of lemon juice, concentrate of essence, and oil.