Shata Dhauta Ghrita, or “hundred-times-washed ghee,” is one of Ayurveda’s most labour-intensive skincare preparations. Traditionally used around the delicate eye area, it is prized for a cooling, brightening effect that ordinary creams struggle to match. Here is what it actually is, how it is made, and how to use it.
How it’s actually made
Shata Dhauta Ghrita is created by repeatedly washing pure ghee with water or floral hydrosols, hundreds of times, until the ghee transforms into a soft, whipped, cream-like consistency. This washing process strips the ghee of its oily, greasy character and leaves behind a light, cooling base that is easily absorbed by the skin. Classical texts describe this preparation being infused with ingredients like saffron (Kumkumadi), sandalwood, and licorice during the washing process, each contributing its own therapeutic properties to the final cream.
Why it’s used specifically for the eye area
- Softness without heaviness: the repeated washing removes the greasy quality of ghee while keeping its nourishing properties, making it light enough for the thin skin around the eyes.
- Dark circles: the cooling, saffron-infused formulation is traditionally used to help brighten the under-eye area over consistent use.
- Under-eye puffiness and dryness: the cream’s cooling quality and deep moisturization help soothe tired, dry, or puffy under-eyes.
How to use it
- Take a small, pea-sized amount of Shata Dhauta Ghrita on your ring finger.
- Gently dab and pat it around the under-eye area and orbital bone, avoiding direct contact with the eyes.
- Use gentle tapping motions rather than rubbing, to help the cream absorb without tugging on delicate skin.
- Use at night as part of your evening routine, allowing it to work while you sleep.
What makes it different from a typical eye cream
Most modern eye creams rely on synthetic emollients and silicones for their light texture. Shata Dhauta Ghrita achieves a similarly light, non-greasy feel through an entirely traditional process, using only ghee and water, without synthetic additives. The infusion of Ayurvedic ingredients like saffron and sandalwood during the washing process is also unique to this preparation and isn’t something replicated in conventional eye creams.
The takeaway
Shata Dhauta Ghrita is a traditional, labour-intensive Ayurvedic preparation designed specifically for the sensitive eye area, offering a cooling, brightening alternative to conventional eye creams. Explore our Shata Dhauta Ghrita cream to experience this centuries-old formulation.
