5 desi drinks to consume if you want glowing skin this winter

When the temperature drops and the air turns crisp, your skin often pays the price. Dry patches, dullness, and that lacklustre glow, winter can really take away your natural radiance. But what if we told you that instead of expensive serums, your kitchen could hold the secret to glass-like, glowing skin? That’s right! Some of India’s age-old winter drinks are packed with skin-loving nutrients that can help you glow from within. These traditional concoctions not only keep you warm but also boost hydration, improve digestion, and nourish your skin deeply. Here are five desi drinks that will help you sip your way to a winter glow.

This golden drink needs no introduction. Turmeric milk, or haldi doodh, has been a part of Indian households for centuries and not just as a remedy for colds. The secret lies in turmeric’s powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thanks to curcumin. It helps fight acne, brightens your skin tone, and gives you that lit-from-within glow.

How to make it: Boil a cup of milk (you can use cow’s milk or almond milk) with half a teaspoon of turmeric, a pinch of black pepper (it enhances curcumin absorption), and a little honey or jaggery for sweetness. Sip it warm before bed, it works wonders overnight.

Pro tip: Add a dash of ghee if your skin feels extra dry; it’ll boost hydration and give your face that natural shine.

If glowing skin had a mascot, it would be amla. This tiny green fruit is bursting with vitamin C, which helps build collagen and repair skin damage. It also detoxifies your system, giving your complexion a clean, healthy look.

How to make it: Blend 2-3 fresh amlas with water, strain the juice, and add a little honey and a pinch of black salt. You can also dilute store-bought amla juice with water if you’re short on time.

When to drink: Early morning on an empty stomach. It helps flush out toxins and preps your skin to glow all day long.

Desi tip: Mix amla juice with aloe vera juice for an extra hydration boost, it’s like a mini facial in a glass.

A favourite in North India, sattu (roasted gram flour) is a hidden gem for skin health. Rich in protein, iron, and fibre, it strengthens your hair and nails while making your skin plump and youthful. During winter, warm sattu drink works beautifully to keep your system nourished.

How to make it: In a glass of warm water, mix 2 tablespoons of sattu, half a teaspoon of jaggery, and a pinch of black salt. Stir well until smooth. You can also add a dash of lemon juice if you like tangy flavours.

Why it works: The protein content helps repair skin tissues and improve elasticity, while the minerals give your skin a natural, earthy glow. It’s basically nutrition and beauty in one glass.

Badam milk, or almond milk, is not just a bedtime indulgence, it’s a beauty elixir. Almonds are rich in vitamin E, a nutrient known for improving skin texture, fighting dryness, and protecting your skin from harsh winter winds.

How to make it: Soak 5-6 almonds overnight, peel them in the morning, and blend them into a smooth paste. Boil milk with saffron strands, cardamom, and a bit of jaggery or honey, then stir in the almond paste.

Pro tip: Drink this warm before sleeping. The combination of almonds and saffron gives you that soft, nourished glow that feels like luxury in a cup.

Bonus: If you have under-eye circles, regular consumption of badam milk can help reduce them naturally.

When it comes to inner cleansing, tulsi and ginger make a powerful pair. Tulsi purifies your blood, while ginger improves circulation and boosts your immunity. Together, they keep your system toxin-free and your skin clear and bright.

How to make it: Boil a few tulsi leaves and a small piece of grated ginger in water for 5–7 minutes. Strain it, add lemon juice and honey, and enjoy it hot.

Why it’s great for skin: This tea balances your metabolism, reduces inflammation, and supports digestion, all of which reflect directly on your face. The result? A fresh, rosy glow, even in dull weather.

Skincare isn’t just about what you apply on your face, it’s also about what you feed your body. These five desi drinks are packed with nutrients that not only protect your skin from winter dryness but also promote long-term health. Make them a part of your daily routine, and you’ll soon notice that your skin looks naturally hydrated, radiant, and happy.

So, this winter, instead of running to the salon or splurging on imported serums, just head to your kitchen. Because the secret to glowing skin has always been simmering right there, in your nani’s recipes!