From Alta to Ittar: Tips to bring back traditional beauty rituals this eid

The beauty of Eid is in the details, alta, ittar, and age-old rituals. Simple, soulful touches that connect you to tradition and make the day feel meaningful, memorable, and truly our own (Image: Canva)

Bakri Eid, or Eid al-Adha, is all about faith, family, and giving back. It’s held on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah and starts with a special morning prayer. It’s a day filled with kindness, good food, and coming together.

The morning of Eid always buzzes with excitement, from the sizzle of sewai on the stove to the familiar jingles of glass bangles. Beauty rituals, especially, carry a certain sentiment. Whether it's applying alta, using natural skincare, or wearing a dab of your grandmother’s favourite ittar, these acts are more than grooming; they’re love letters to our heritage.

Add these traditional touches to your Eid beauty regime:

Alta or henna decked hands: Nothing says festival like red-coloured hands. While mehndi (henna) is widely loved, alta, a crimson dye used on hands and feet,
is making a comeback for those seeking bold, nostalgic beauty. Pair it with silver toe rings and kolhapuris for a timeless look.

Wash your face with raw milk: Used by queens and grandmothers alike, raw milk gently cleanses, softens, and brightens your skin. Use it first thing in the morning on Eid for a fresh, dewy glow, no chemicals needed.

Scrub with almond oil and besan: Skip store-bought exfoliants. Mix besan (gram flour) with almond oil and a pinch of haldi (turmeric) for a traditional scrub that brightens the skin and leaves it baby-soft.

Hydrate your skin, and yourself too: After a month of fasting, your body and skin both crave hydration. Start your Eid morning with a tall glass of water and follow up with a natural rosewater mist to keep your skin plump and refreshed.

Dab on a drop of ittar: Fragrance is deeply spiritual in Islam. Apply ittar (like jasmine, amber or oud) behind your ears and on your wrists. The scent will linger through the day and add a layer of calm.

Oil your hair the night before: A gentle overnight oil massage, using coconut or amla oil, not only nourishes the scalp but relaxes the mind. Braid your hair or wrap it in a scarf and wake up to naturally shiny tresses.