Healthy nourished skin and hair are synonymous with beauty. Healthy skin and hair reflect a healthy body. Many people go behind cosmetics to take care of their skin and hair. But these products contain chemicals that are damaging at the same time. This is when the whole focus can be turned to Ayurveda, the all-natural, chemical-free remedy.
Ayurveda recommends the use of herbal creams, oils, and supplements to enhance one's skin and hair health. These herbs are time tested as they had been in use for centuries, plus are chemical-free. The ayurvedic approach is a natural way to take care of your skin and hair health.
Skin Care and Ayurveda
Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to treat skin ailments. Ayurvedic creams and oils not only moisturize and nourish the skin but also corrects imbalances and detoxifies. This makes the skin glowing.
Skin types and Doshas
Every person’s skin type is unique and depends on the predominant Dosha. An imbalance leads to one dosha being dominant and this affects the overall balance affecting the health. As such, skin health is also affected by the dominant dosha. According to Ayurveda, the skin is classified based on the dominant dosha as- Vata Skin: The Vata skin is dry and cool. When in imbalance, the skin dries up completely making it susceptible to conditions like dermatitis and eczema. The skin can become flaky too. And during cold and dry weather, the skin becomes worse. This kind of skin needs moisturization and can be attained by drinking lots of water. A Vata pacifying diet can be followed for this kind of skin type.
- Pitta Skin: Pitta skin is hot and warm to touch, moderately thick, and will be reddish in appearance. During imbalance, inflammation, rashes, freckles, pimples, occur. Cooling lotions and a pitta pacifying diet can help this kind of skin.
- Kapha skin: Kapha skin type is thicker and smoother and is usually pale with thick hair. The skin is mostly oily in nature. During imbalance, pores and pimples are formed. Detoxification and cleansing of the skin can be done to avoid toxin buildup in the skin. Sweet and fried foods should also be avoided.
- Combination skin types: A combination of both doshas can be found in some people. Like Vatta-Pitta, Pitta-Kapha, etc. In such persons, extra care is taken while balancing the doshas.
Ayurvedic ingredients used in Skin care
Ayurvedic ingredients benefit the skin by helping in skin care. Some well-Known Ayurvedic herbs that ensure skin care are- Sandalwood or Chandana: Sandalwood is a well-known coolant. It reduces inflammation, hydrates the skin, and keeps it soft.
- Aloe vera or Ghritkumari: Aloe Vera is known for its cooling properties. It provides relief from skin ailments and improves skin health.
- Neem: The antimicrobial activity of neem helps manage various skin conditions. It helps open up clogged pores and acts deep on skin tissues.
- Tulsi or Holy basil: Tulsi has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, and is rich in anti-oxidants.
- Manjishta or Indian madder: It is a blood purifier and helps in rejuvenating the skin.
