Turmeric ubtan, whipped ghee and a golden oil laid out for an Ayurvedic skin ritual

Oily, Dry or Combination? How to Choose Your Navtej DeTan & Glow Ritual Variant

Dr Rucha Mehendale Pai

By Dr Rucha Mehendale Pai (BAMS) - Ayurvedic Doctor (Ayurvedacharya)

Turmeric ubtan, whipped ghee and a golden oil laid out for an Ayurvedic skin ritual
Cleanse, ubtan, moisturise: the same three steps, matched to your skin type.

Key takeaways

  • The Navtej DeTan & Glow Ritual is a three-step routine: Papai Joy Face Wash, Varnya Ubtan and a moisturiser chosen for your skin type.
  • It comes in three variants: Dry, Oily and Combination.
  • The Dry variant finishes with Shatadhauta Ghruta, and the Oily variant with the light Kumkumadi Gel.
  • A simple two-minute skin check helps you pick the variant that will feel just right.

When we launched the DeTan & Glow Ritual, the most common message on our WhatsApp was not about price or delivery. It was, "Doctor, which one should I order?" A college student with a shiny T-zone, a mother of two whose cheeks felt tight after every wash, a young man who said his skin was "normal, I think." Each needed a slightly different finish to the same ritual. Here is how to choose yours.

What is inside the DeTan & Glow Ritual?

Every variant follows the same three steps:

1. Papai Joy Face Wash gently cleanses away dirt, oil and the day's build-up.

2. Varnya Ubtan, a herbal face pack inspired by the classical Varnya group of herbs, gently exfoliates and refreshes tired, sun-exposed skin.

3. A moisturiser matched to your skin. This is where the variants differ.

How does Ayurveda look at skin types?

Ayurveda describes skin tendencies through the doshas.

From the classical texts

The Charaka Samhita (Vimanasthana, Rogabhishagjitiya Adhyaya) describes the qualities of each body type: Vata with dry and rough qualities, Pitta with warm and sensitive qualities, and Kapha with smooth, oily and soft qualities. The same text (Sutrasthana) lists the Varnya group of ten herbs valued for the complexion.

These passages describe traditional concepts, not modern medical claims.

How can you tell your skin type at home?

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser, pat it dry and apply nothing for an hour. Then look and feel.

Dry skin

Feels tight, may look slightly flaky or rough, and shows little or no shine.

Oily skin

Looks shiny across the forehead, nose, chin and often the cheeks, and may feel slightly sticky.

Combination skin

Shiny in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) but comfortable or slightly dry on the cheeks. This is very common in India.

Which variant should you choose?

Dry variant, the Nourishing Glow Ritual: finishes with Shatadhauta Ghruta, ghee washed 100 times, for skin that feels dry, rough or tight.

Oily variant, the Lightweight Glow Ritual: finishes with Kumkumadi Gel for fresh, non-greasy hydration on oily or sticky-feeling skin.

Combination variant: made for skin that is oily in the T-zone and comfortable or dry on the cheeks.

Your skin can shift with the seasons, so it is perfectly fine to choose a different variant in winter than in summer.

Navtej DeTan & Glow Ritual three-step Ayurvedic skincare kit

Navtej DeTan & Glow Ritual, Dr Rucha's Navtej

Face wash, Varnya Ubtan and a skin-type moisturiser, in Dry, Oily or Combination | ₹1,099

Shop the Ritual

How do you use the ritual?

Daily: cleanse with Papai Joy Face Wash and finish with your moisturiser.

Two to three times a week: after cleansing, mix one to two teaspoons of Varnya Ubtan with rose water or milk, apply a thin layer, and rinse with wet hands while it is still slightly damp. Then moisturise.

Evenings work well, after a day of sun and pollution. Use as described on the pack, or as advised by your physician.

When should you see a doctor?

Please see a doctor or dermatologist if you have painful or widespread acne, eczema, rosacea, sudden dark patches, or any redness, burning or itching after using a product. These need proper evaluation. Patch test each new product on your inner forearm first. If you are pregnant, managing a skin condition or using prescription skincare, check with your doctor before starting, and never stop prescribed treatment.

References

  • Charaka Samhita, Vimanasthana, Rogabhishagjitiya Adhyaya (body types)
  • Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana, Shadvirechanashatashritiya Adhyaya (Varnya Mahakashaya)
  • Ashtanga Hridaya, Sutrasthana, Dinacharya (udvartana)

These references describe traditional Ayurvedic concepts and are not statements of medical fact.

Frequently asked questions

Which variant suits most Indian skin?

Combination skin is very common, so many people start there. The two-minute skin check above is the easiest way to confirm.

Can I switch variants with the season?

Yes. Many people enjoy the Oily or Combination variant in summer and monsoon and the Dry variant in winter.

How often should I use the ubtan step?

Two to three times a week suits most skin. The face wash and moisturiser can be used daily.

Can men use the DeTan & Glow Ritual?

Absolutely. It suits anyone who spends time in the sun and wants a simple, fresh routine.

Does it make a good gift?

Yes. Pick the variant by the person's skin type, or choose Combination if you are unsure.

Still unsure which variant fits you? Book Your Consultation

Dr Rucha Mehendale Pai (BAMS) - Ayurvedic Doctor (Ayurvedacharya)
Ayurvedic doctor and founder of Dr Rucha Tanvi Herbals and Dr Rucha's Navtej, guiding families towards everyday Ayurvedic wellness.

This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Ayurvedic products should be used under the guidance of a qualified practitioner. Do not stop any prescribed medication. Individual results may vary.

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