How to Make a Milk Bath at Home

Add 1-2 cups of whole milk or powdered milk to warm bath water for softer, smoother skin.

Milk baths are ancient for a reason—lactic acid does in your tub what expensive glycolic treatments do at the spa, just gentler and cheaper.

1. Fill your tub with warm water. Use comfortably warm water, not hot—heat breaks down the proteins and fats that make milk baths effective. Fill to your usual bath level.
2. Add your milk. Pour 1-2 cups of whole milk directly under the running tap to help it distribute evenly. Powdered milk works just as well—use about half a cup.
3. Soak for 15-20 minutes. The lactic acid gently exfoliates while proteins and fats moisturize. Any longer and your skin starts to wrinkle from water exposure.
4. Rinse with cool water. A quick cool rinse removes any milk residue and closes your pores. Pat dry gently—your skin will already feel noticeably softer.