How To Incorporate Ayurveda Into Your Skincare Routine

Holistic medicine has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people turning to various options of complementary and alternative medicine as a way to improve their overall health and wellbeing. Some of these include aromatherapy, Ayurveda, energy medicine and herbal medicine, which can even incorporate CBD oil from the Cannabis sativa plant to assist in wellbeing. This article focuses on Ayurvedic skincare as a routine to improve the long term health of your skin.

The Three Doshas

Ayurveda is India’s ancient holistic medicine system based on each individual’s body type, which is determined by the three doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Each person has a unique dosha ratio, often with one standing out more than the others. This specific ratio defines his or her Ayurvedic constitution, which will influence all aspects one’s physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health. The more you know about your unique dosha constitution, the better choices you can make to develop your skincare and overall health routines.

Here are some holistic Ayurvedic dosha qualities:

• Vata (wind): A Vata dominant person has dry, rough skin, that if not moisturised externally and internally on a regular basis, tends to wrinkle. For this, oil-based moisturizers are recommended, and also the consumption of warm spices such as ginger. Ashwagandha, an Indian herb, may also be recommended as an ingredient for a face mask.
• Pitta (fire): People with high Pitta usually have oily skin that can be prone to acne and rosacea. For this option, cooling elements such as aloe vera and sandalwood are often suggested.
• Kapha (water and earth): Kapha skin tends to be oily and cold and may be prone to issues such as whiteheads, pimples and water retention. Applying face masks regularly is recommended, while oil-based creams should be avoided.

How To Use Ayurvedic Skincare

Use these tips routinely for optimal effects.

Let The Season Dictate Your Skincare Routine.

It is vital that you take into account Ayurvedic seasonal influences as this has an effect on your dosha ratio. For example, even if you have a Vata constitution, Pitta will still need to be balanced out during a hot summer because the climate has a significant energetic input on your overall wellbeing.

Use Neem Oil To Deal With Problem Spots.

Neem oil is a great option for treating dry skin and is not dissimilar to tea tree oil, although it is more cooling and especially suited to the hot summer months. The best way to apply neem oil is to use a cotton swab and put it straight onto pimples, spots or points of minor inflammation and leave it overnight.

Start Incorporating Aloe Vera Into Your Everyday Routine.

Many people believe that aloe vera is specifically effective for sunburns. And it is. But it also has other useful properties. It helps make the skin smooth, younger-looking and more supple. It can either be taken as a daily tonic or applied topically to the skin.

Exfoliate With Sugar (Especially In Summer).

Sugar, which contains a type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), glycolic acid, can help to retain moisture and boost cell turnover. It is ideal for summer because it is a cooling ingredient. It can be incorporated with other cooling ingredients for an effective facial scrub too.

Add Full-Fat Milk Or Cream To Your Bath.

Adding cream or milk to your bath can help soothe and nourish the skin. If you prefer, coconut oil has similar advantages.

Incorporate Rosewater Into Your Skincare Routine.

Rosewater is a fantastic ingredient. Not only does it look good and feel amazing, but it is okay to use rosewater multiple times a day. The main properties of rosewater are its cooling element and the support it provides for soft and supple skin.

Start Oil Pulling.

Oil pulling is the swishing of plant oils in the mouth to clear away toxins and clean the teeth and gums. Some of the more popular choices include coconut oil or sesame oil, and many people do this instead of using a mouthwash. The Ayurvedic principle of holistic wellness recognizes that oral health supports overall wellness, so the practice of oil pulling aids in detoxification of the whole body.

Face Masks Are A Great Choice.

Facial masks are a go-to option for all skin types. If you have dry, irritated skin, a mask such as an organic castor oil mask will help improve discomfort. On the other hand, if you have excessively oily skin, clay masks can be an excellent option to absorb excess oil. Another great option is to moisturize your face with coconut oil daily. Many Ayurvedic practitioners choose coconut oil because it is not overly heavy and is cooling in nature.

Using holistic Ayurvedic skincare practices is easy to incorporate into your daily life. When used routinely you can expect to see improvement not only in your skin, but overall wellness in body, mind and spirit.

Valentina Soldatkina is a freelance writer in the alternative healthcare products industry, who enjoys pets, family, and friends.