Ayurvedic skincare incorporates traditional healing methods from India. The practice offers natural facials, treatments for skin problems, and herbal remedies for the skin. Today, numerous skincare products based on Ayurveda are available for purchase. It is crucial to review the ingredients and the quality in order to achieve optimal results.
According to Ayurveda, the treatments for skin are designed to target specific skin types and their related concerns.
Understanding your type of skin
Ayurvedic skin care treatments are designed to cater to a range of skin conditions. According to Ayurveda, an individual’s skin type is determined by their Doshas.
Vata
In Ayurveda, Vata refers to the combination of air and space elements within the body. As per Ayurveda, an individual with predominant Vata Dosha may have dry and coarse skin that becomes wrinkled without proper moisturization. Lower fat levels characterize Vata-type skin and require additional moisturizing, both externally and internally.
Pitta
Individuals who have high body heat levels frequently experience oily skin and are susceptible to developing acne and rosacea.
Kapha
Kapha skin tends to feel cold, produce excess oil, and is prone to developing pimples, whiteheads and retaining water. Utilizing dry brushing is a beneficial method for removing blockages, stimulating the lymphatic system and exfoliating the skin.
Causes of skin problems
According to Ayurveda, numerous factors can lead to skin issues.
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Imbalance of Doshas
An excess of Vata can lead to dry, flaky, and rough skin. An excess of Pitta can lead to swelling, redness, and acne. Excessive Kapha can lead to the excessive production of oil in the skin, resulting in clogged pores and a dull complexion.
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Poor gut health
Skin issues can result from difficulties in digesting food, as per Ayurveda. When your digestion is not functioning correctly, harmful substances known as toxins may accumulate in your body. This may lead to skin problems, such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis.
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Issues in diet
Consuming foods that do not suit your body type (Prakriti) or consuming unhealthy processed foods can disrupt your body’s equilibrium and lead to skin issues. Consuming unhealthy food can exacerbate Dosha imbalances and lead to skin issues.
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Environmental factors
Excessive pollution, sun exposure, adverse weather conditions and using chemical products can also damage the skin and lead to skin issues.
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Emotional stress
Emotional stress and psychological factors can affect the skin. Ayurveda recognizes the interconnectedness of the mind and body. Emotional stress may lead to the development or aggravation of skin issues.
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Toxin buildup
The accumulation of toxins (Ama) in the body from unhealthy habits, poor dietary choices, or digestive issues may lead to skin problems. These toxins are capable of obstructing the pathways, disrupting blood circulation, and damaging skin wellness.
My skincare routine
I have acne-prone skin and therefore, finding the right kind of products that suit my skin has been a struggle, until I found them in Ayurveda. Ever since, I haven’t looked back. After starting my career and gaining some experience, now I have my own line of products that I personally use and also recommend to my patients. I use them on a daily basis.
Here is my daily skincare routine:
Step 1- Cleansing with organic black sesame oil
The first step of my skincare routine is cleansing my face with organic black sesame oil. I strongly believe in double cleansing. So, I massage my face with organic black sesame oil to remove makeup, dirt, and all the impurities that have accumulated on my face. If you are not aware, organic black sesame oil holds lots of importance in Ayurveda. It has lots of health benefits and is the best recommended oil for Abhyanga (self-oil massage).
Step 2- Cleansing with a mild herbal scrub
This herbal scrub It smells so divine, so divine, I can’t tell you. It has Vetiver as the main ingredient. A after I apply a mild herbal scrub on my face as the next step and wait for it to dry up. This herbal scrub smells so divine, and so divine, I can’t tell you. It has Vetiver as the main ingredient. Vetiver is an amazing Ayurvedic herb that has a cooling effect on your skin. Once dried, I rinse it off and then, dry my face gently using use a microfiber towel.
Step 3- Applying the magical oil
This is the last and the most crucial step of my skincare routine – applying 4 drops of my magical Glow Oil. TI can’t tell you how much this oil has helped reduce me with reducing my blemishes and dark circles, and makes my skin glow. Happy skin, happy me.
Benefits of Vetiver and organic black sesame oil
Apart from my Glow Oil, organic black sesame oil and the herbal scrub with Vetiver as the main ingredient help keep my skin healthy and happy! Ayurveda has a lot to say about Vetiver and organic black sesame oil for its amazing health benefits.
Vetiver
Vetiver is a perennial grass that thrives in the southern regions of India and regrows annually. Known as Khus in Ayurveda, it is scientifically called Vetiveriazizanioides and has a refreshing scent with hints of citrus and earthy notes that provide a cooling sensation. Vetiver water or oil is commonly utilized for addressing various skin issues. Vetiver roots are processed and incorporated into beauty products.
For a long time, individuals have believed that this particular item is unique due to its ability to withstand high temperatures and provide a refreshing, cooling sensation. It is commonly found in households, particularly during the summer months. During the summer, your body can heat up, leading to increased acne, breakouts, irritation, and sunburns.
Vetiver oil has a calming effect on the skin, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. It helps keep the skin safe from harsh weather, lessens damage from oxygen, lessens wrinkles, and makes the skin tighter and more hydrated. It is also renowned for its ability to improve hair condition and combat scalp infections. The essential oil of Vetiver is derived from the long-lasting grass native to India. The process of making vetiver essential oil involves boiling the roots in water and collecting the steam. The scent is reminiscent of wood, smoke, and earth. Often utilized in fragrances, cosmetics, and cleansers, it also contributes to the flavour of drinks.
Sesame Oil
Sesame oil is a nutritious oil derived from black sesame seeds. This oil is beneficial for your health due to its high content of healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants. Sesame oil contains beneficial oleic acid and linoleic acid, which are suitable for the skin. It has sesamol, sesamin and sesamolin – all of which are antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental stressors.
Sesame oil is beneficial for the skin as it can penetrate deeply into your skin and helps maintain hydration and health. It assists in improving dry, flaky, or rough skin. The natural anti-inflammatory properties of sesame oil can aid in decreasing skin redness and swelling. It is also ideal for individuals with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Another amazing property of organic sesame oil is that it It provides hydration, reduces inflammation, and offers natural sun protection by shielding the skin from UV damage. The oil is excellent for individuals who are frequently exposed to sunlight and want to protect their skin.
Tips to reduce acne and make skin glow naturally
Acne is a common skin condition that is a result of clogged hair follicles with dead skin cells and oil, which can result in the growth of deeper cysts and pimples, blackheads and whiteheads. It typically affects the face, neck, chest, back and shoulders since these regions have a higher density of oil glands.
What causes acne?
Several factors lead to the development of acne. They include excessive oil production, clogged hair follicles with dead skin or oil, bacteria, hormonal changes, and certain medications or diets.
- Sebum is a naturally occurring greasy material that keeps your skin nourished. On the other hand, excessive sebum production can clog pores and result in acne.
- Your hair follicles may become clogged with dead skin cells and sebum, which can harbour germs and cause inflammation. What leads to the formation of pimples is this irritation.
- A type of bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) lives on everyone’s skin. However, in people with acne, P. acnes can overgrow and contribute to the development of pimples.
- Hormonal changes, such as those that take place during puberty, pregnancy and menopause can cause acne outbreaks.
- Stress can exacerbate acne by boosting hormone and oil production.
- According to some studies, eating a lot of sugar and dairy items can exacerbate acne.
- Acne outbreaks can also be the outcome of using some drugs, including certain birth control pills and corticosteroids.
Ayurvedic recipe for natural skin care
This is a recipe from Ashtanga Hridaya for Mukha Dooshika (acne).
The main ingredients are Multani Mitti/earth clay, tender guava leaves and turmeric.
Make a paste with the main ingredients and rosewater. Apply on your skin thrice a week for 15 minutes and rinse off with water before it dries up on the skin. In addition, do a Triphala wash 3 times a day.
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Multani Mitti/ Earth Clay
Multani Mitti is a versatile and affordable natural clay with a range of potential benefits for your skin. It has deep cleansing and exfoliation properties that absorb excess oil and impurities, unclogging pores and reducing blackheads and whiteheads. It also gently exfoliates, removing dead skin cells and brightening the complexion.
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Tender Guava Leaves
Guava leaves contain various antioxidants and flavonoids that may help combat free radical damage and reduce inflammation. This could contribute to a brighter, healthier-looking complexion. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which could prevent acne-causing bacteria and other skin concerns.
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Turmeric
Turmeric, a vibrant orange spice with a long history of medicinal use, has recently gained popularity as a natural remedy for acne. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has potent anti-inflammatory effects. This could help reduce redness, swelling, and irritation associated with acne. Curcumin acts as an antioxidant, protecting the skin from free radical damage that can contribute to acne breakouts.