Ayurvedic skin care is based on ancient Indian medicine. The practice includes Ayurvedic facials, treatments for skin diseases, and herbal formulations for the skin.
Ayurvedic skin care treatments are based on skin type.
According to Ayurveda, a person’s skin type is based on the three doshas. These are bioenergetic or life forces that make up the constitution of the body and mind. They are:
- Vata (wind)
- Pitta (fire)
- Kapha (water and earth)
Vata
According to the Ayurvedic tradition, a vata-dominant person has dry and rough skin that tends to wrinkle if not moisturized regularly.
“Vata-type skin has fewer fat deposits and needs more moisturizing, both externally and internally,” says Varalakshmi Yanamandra, Ayurvedic health coach and director of Ayur Wellness & Pain Centre.
She recommends using oil-based moisturizers on the skin and consuming warm spices like ginger. She also suggests that ashwagandha, an ancient Indian herb, may reduce skin dryness when added to a face mask.
Pitta
People with high pitta tend to have oily skin that may be prone to acne and rosacea.
“This type of skin needs more cooling elements like aloe vera, turmeric (which is anti-inflammatory), and sandalwood (which reduces pimples and redness),” says Yanamandra.
Kapha
Kapha skin tends to be cold and oily, and it may be prone to pimples, whiteheads, and water retention. Yanamandra recommends dry brushing to remove obstructions, stimulate the lymphatic system, and exfoliate. She also suggests avoiding oil-based creams and applying face masks regularly.
According to Ayurveda, minor symptoms are caused by a dominance of a s pecific dosha. Those experiencing minor symptoms may see improvement through dietary changes and at-home skin care remedies.Major conditions may require the expertise and supervision of an Ayurvedic practitioner.
Panchakarma
Ayurveda also recommends panchakarma, which means “five actions” in Sanskrit.
This long-term treatment is believed to help the body get rid of toxins and prevent or treat diseases, including those relating to the skin. It may not be for everyone, including those with a history of eating disorders.
Panchakarma consists of five procedures:
Virechan: cleansing using powders, pastes, or heated medicinal plants
Vaman: forced vomiting or purging through herbal medicinal treatment
Basti: massage or enemas using warm oils
Rakta moksha: detoxification of the blood, also known as bloodletting
Nasya: nasal clearance using herbal remedies, oils, and scents
To receive panchakarma, you will need to visit an Ayurvedic practitioner, typically in a clinical overnight setting.
