As North Indian winters set in, many families bring out an old remedy: a little ghee rubbed on cracked lips, dry hands and rough heels at bedtime. Some massage it into a baby's skin, some apply it to the navel, and some mix it into home-made face packs. It is one of the most widespread traditional uses of ghee outside the kitchen. Some of those uses make sense. A few are best avoided.
This is general information, not medical advice. If you have a skin condition, a rash, an allergy or a wound, see a doctor or dermatologist.
Why ghee can help with dryness
Dry skin in winter is largely about water loss. Cold air and low humidity pull moisture from the skin, and hot baths strip away its natural oils. Fats and oils applied to skin act as emollients, softening rough patches, and as occlusives, forming a thin layer that slows water loss.
Ghee is a fat, so it does both of those things, much as other plant and animal fats do. That is a sensible reason it has been used on dry skin for generations. Claims that ghee has special anti-ageing or healing powers beyond that are not well supported by evidence.
Traditional uses that are reasonable for most people
Cracked lips. A thin layer of ghee at night softens dry, chapped lips. It is food-safe, which is a real advantage for lips.
Dry, cracked heels. Soak feet in warm water, pat dry, rub in a little ghee, and wear cotton socks overnight.
Rough hands and elbows. A small amount massaged in after washing and drying.
Dry cuticles. A tiny dab rubbed into cuticles.
Navel application. Applying a drop of ghee to the navel is a traditional practice in some families. There is no good evidence for the specific benefits often claimed, but it is harmless for most people.
When not to use ghee on skin
- On burns. A very common old habit, and a harmful one. Never put ghee, butter or oil on a burn. It can trap heat and raise the risk of infection. Cool a burn under running water for 20 minutes and seek medical help if it is serious.
- On open wounds, cuts or broken skin.
- On acne-prone or oily facial skin. Heavy fats can clog pores for some people.
- On infected, weeping or inflamed skin, eczema flares or fungal infections, unless a doctor has advised it.
- If you have a milk allergy. Ghee contains traces of milk protein.
- On babies with eczema or rashes, without checking with a paediatrician.
Practical tips
- Use very little. A thin layer is enough. Too much feels greasy and stains fabric.
- Apply to slightly damp skin after a bath to help lock in moisture.
- Use a separate small jar. Do not dip fingers into your kitchen ghee. Water and skin contact introduce bacteria, and the jar will spoil.
- Patch test first on a small area if you have sensitive skin.
- Mind your pillowcases and socks. Ghee can mark fabric.
What about ghee in baby massage?
Massaging babies with oils is traditional across India, and ghee is used in some families. Current guidance from many paediatricians is cautious about heavy oils on newborn skin, particularly for babies with a family history of eczema. Speak to your paediatrician about what suits your child.
The simplest version
If your hands and lips are dry this winter, a small, separate jar of ghee kept on the bedside table is a traditional, gentle and inexpensive thing to try. Keep it well away from burns and broken skin, and see a doctor for anything more than everyday dryness.
A small jar of A2 Gir Cow Ghee set aside for this lasts all winter.