Priyanka Chopra reveals 3,000-year-old Indian secret to her flawless skin: ‘This was my mum’s way of moisturising…’

Priyanka Chopra once revealed the secret to her radiant, flawless skin - it is none other than ubtan! This skin care formulation has its roots in Ayurveda and according to an article published on Lotus Botanicals, is more than 3,000 years old! In an interview with Vogue, the ‘Barfi’ star said how a traditional ubtan- comprising of besan (gram flour or chickpea flour) and haldi (turmeric) helps her exfoliate her skin from dead cells and grime, leaving it looking radiant.

“The ubtan was my mum’s way of moisturizing, exfoliating my skin when I was 16. It really soothes—I’ve taught it to a lot of my friends,” she told Vogue.

How Does Gram Flour Make Your Skin Radiant?

Gram flour or besan is basically food for your skin and a beauty ingredient, which although cheap, can make your skin look radiant and clear in no time.


Gram flour, also known as chickpea flour, has long been valued in traditional skincare for its ability to cleanse, exfoliate, and nourish the skin without relying on harsh chemicals. Packed with skin-friendly nutrients, it offers multiple benefits that help improve complexion, texture, and overall skin health.

Rich in Nutrients That Support Healthy Skin

Chickpea flour contains proteins that contribute to maintaining the skin's firmness and flexibility. It is also a good source of folate, a nutrient that encourages the renewal of skin cells, helping the complexion appear fresher over time. Additionally, its zinc content assists in regulating excess oil production while supporting the skin's natural healing process, making it suitable for those dealing with blemishes or minor skin damage.

Cleanses Gently While Exfoliating Naturally

The smooth texture of gram flour works as a mild exfoliating agent, lifting away dead skin cells without causing irritation. Its naturally occurring saponins provide gentle cleansing properties that remove dirt, sweat, and impurities while preserving the skin's protective moisture barrier. Unlike many chemical-based cleansers, gram flour refreshes the skin without leaving it feeling tight or dry.

Keeps Oily Skin Fresh and Pores Clear

People with oily or combination skin may find gram flour especially beneficial. It helps absorb surplus sebum from the skin's surface without stripping away essential moisture. Regular application keeps pores free from accumulated oil, dirt, and debris, reducing the likelihood of blackheads and acne breakouts. As a result, the skin feels cleaner, smoother, and more balanced.

Promotes a Brighter and More Even Complexion

One of gram flour's most appreciated skincare benefits is its ability to improve skin radiance. By removing dull, damaged surface cells and encouraging the formation of fresh new ones, it gradually enhances overall skin tone. Continued use can help minimise uneven pigmentation, leaving the complexion looking brighter, healthier, and naturally luminous. It is particularly useful for reducing the appearance of acne scars and sun-induced discoloration.

Helps Fade Stubborn Dark Spots

Persistent marks left behind by acne or prolonged sun exposure often require consistent exfoliation to improve. Gram flour supports this process by encouraging faster skin cell turnover, allowing pigmented cells to shed more efficiently. Over time, this natural renewal process can soften the appearance of dark spots while helping prevent the development of new patches of uneven pigmentation, resulting in clearer and more uniform-looking skin.