Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, has been in practice, for centuries to promote overall well-being and health including the skin care. In recent years, Ayurveda and its principles are gaining wide popularity across the globe, due to its holistic and personalized approach in solving health issues.
Ayurveda has a holistic definition of beauty.
“Roopam, gunam, vayastyagah, iti shubhanga karanam.”
According to Ayurvedic principles, skincare is achieved by balancing the doshas (Vata, pitta & kapha) of the body and mind. Here are some tips for starting your skincare journey with Ayurveda.
Understanding Your Skin Type.
In Ayurveda, the skin type are classified according to the three doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each dosha is associated with specific characteristics. Understanding your skin type, can help you choose the right skincare products and routines.
Vata skin is typically dry, thin, and delicate, and may be prone to wrinkles and fine lines.
Pitta skin is sensitive, prone to inflammation, and may be prone to acne and rosacea.
Kapha skin is typically oily, thick, and may be prone to blackheads and whiteheads.
Vata-pitta – Dry and sensitive
Pitta-kapha- oily and sensitive
Vata-kapha – dry oily zones
Choosing the Right Products
Ayurvedic skincare emphasizes the use of natural ingredients that are gentle and nourishing to the skin. Most of the Ayurveda texts uses ingredients such as turmeric, neem leaf, sandalwood, aloe vera, liquorice, etc. These ingredients have been used in Ayurveda for centuries for their soothing and healing properties.
When choosing products, it’s important to look for ones that are best suitable, for your specific skin type.
For example, if you have dry Vata skin, you may want to choose a moisturizer that contains hydrating ingredients like aloe Vera, kumkumadi oil, manjishtadi oil, triphala, turmeric etc.
If you have oily Kapha skin, you may want to choose a cleanser that contains detoxifying ingredients like Triphala choornam, neem leaf, turmeric etc mixed with rose water.
If Pitta related skin issue you may want to use pitta pacifying ingredients like Liquorice powder, turmeric, sandalwood powder, manjishta powder, milk, curd etc.
Establishing a Skincare Routine
In Ayurveda, following a healthy daily routine is the key to promote, balance and well-being. Consistent skincare routine can help promote healthy and glowing skin.
Cleanse: Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser that is appropriate for your skin type.
Like – 2 tablespoons besan (gram flour) +1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder + Water or rose water
Mix the besan and turmeric powder in a small bowl with enough water or rose water to form a paste.
Apply the paste to your face, avoiding the eye area.
Massage the paste into your skin using gentle circular motions for about a minute.
Rinse your face with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft towel.
Note-This Ayurvedic cleanser is suitable for all skin types, but is especially beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin. It is gentle enough to use daily and can help keep the skin clean, clear, and healthy.
Tone: After cleansing, apply a toner to help balance the pH of your skin and remove any remaining dirt or impurities.
1 cup distilled water
1/2 cup neem leaves
1/2 cup tulsi (holy basil) leaves
1/4 cup rose water
1/4 cup witch hazel
Instructions:
Boil the neem leaves and tulsi leaves in distilled water for about 15-20 minutes, until the water turns green.
Strain the liquid and allow it to cool to room temperature.
Mix the neem and tulsi water with rose water and witch hazel in a glass bottle.
Shake well before use.
After cleansing your face, apply the toner to your face and neck using a cotton ball or pad.
Allow the toner to dry naturally, and then apply moisturizer as needed.
Moisturize: Apply a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type. This will help hydrate your skin and protect it from the elements.
Protect: Apply sunscreen if you will be spending time in the sun.
In addition to this basic routine, you may want to consider adding other Ayurvedic skincare practices to your routine, such as facial massage, exfoliation, or the use of a face mask.
Facial massage is a great way to promote lymphatic drainage, increase circulation, and promote healthy skin. To perform a facial massage, start by applying a few drops of oil to your face. Use your fingers to gently massage your face in upward, circular motions.
You may use – kumkumadi oil, manjishtadi oil, eladi oil etc
Exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. You can exfoliate using a gentle scrub or by using a facial brush.
You may use – triphala choornam, manjishtadi choornam, eladi choornam etc.
Face masks are a great way to nourish your skin with natural ingredients. Look for masks that are formulated for your skin type and contain ingredients like honey, curd, turmeric, aloe vera etc.
Incorporating Ayurvedic Diet and Lifestyle Practices
In addition to external skincare measures, Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of diet and lifestyle practices in improving the skin health and natural glow.
Eat a balanced diet: Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of eating a balanced diet that is tailored to your dosha. Eating a balanced diet can help promote healthy skin from the inside out.
Yoga and meditation: Yoga and meditation are both practices that can help reduce stress and promote mental health. Stress can have a negative impact on the skin, so incorporating these practices into your routine can have a positive effect on your skin health.
Get enough sleep: Sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, including skin health. Aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help promote healthy, glowing skin.
Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is important for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water each day.
Practice self-care: Taking time to care for yourself is important for overall well-being. Make time for activities that you enjoy, such as reading, taking a bath, or spending time in nature.
Incorporating Ayurvedic principles into your skincare routine can help promote healthy, radiant skin. By understanding your dosha, choosing the right products, and establishing a consistent skincare routine, you can help balance your body, mind, and spirit for optimal skin health. In addition to skincare, incorporating Ayurvedic diet and lifestyle practices can further support overall well-being and healthy skin. By taking a holistic approach to skincare, you can promote not only the health of your skin, but your overall health and well-being.
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