Introduction

Being one of the oldest medicine forms on Earth, Ayurveda has been offering a holistic lifestyle for many years now. With a balanced health approach, Ayurveda offers many things, from dietary recommendations to herbal remedies. In this blog post, we dive into the world of Ayurvedic skin care treatments, exploring the factors behind Ayurvedic skin care and detailing the various treatments it offers.

Why Ayurveda for skin

Unlike other skin treatments that contain skin-deep factors, Ayurveda ensures the most natural way for skincare. Here’s why Australians are embracing this natural approach:

• Holistic: Ayurveda takes into account all aspects of an individual, like mind, body, and spirit for lasting results. Exclusive use of organic herbs, oils, and minerals ensures minimal risk of irritation or side effects in the formulation of natural ingredients.
• Personalised: Ayurveda uses specific treatments tailored specifically for each skin type in order to deliver maximum effectiveness and ensure an holistic cure.
• Sustainable: You will use eco-friendly products while supporting local Australian suppliers.

Understanding skin from Ayurveda perspective

In Ayurveda, skin health can be seen as an indicator of one’s overall wellbeing. According to its principles, its structure is determined by three doshas known as Vata, Pitta and Kapha that regulate skin types; any imbalance can manifest into acne breakouts, eczema outbreaks or dry patches on one’s complexion. Understanding one’s skin type and dosha constitution is crucial in determining an effective treatment plan.

The skin, an organ of both elimination and absorption, is considered one of the most important in Ayurveda. It is said to be a reflection of everything going on in the body, including all the harmony and imbalances.

Here’s how Ayurveda understands healthy skin:

• Well-nourished and hydrated: A proper balance of moisture and nutrients is needed for glowing skin.
• Radiant and clear skin: A vibrant complexion is a sign of good health and healthy digestive processes.
• Smooth Texture and Firmness: Shows a healthy balance of doshas.

Skin Types According to Ayurveda

Ayurveda categorises skin according to the doshas:

• Vata Skin: Dry, thin and delicate with early signs of aging.
• Pitta Skin: Medium thickness fair sensitive may be more likely to breakouts.
• Kapha Skin: Thick oily skin less likely to wrinkles with an abundance of sebum production which tends to lead to clogged pores.

Common Skin Problems and Ayurvedic Understanding

• Acne: Acne is caused by an imbalance of Pitta in your digestive tract or blood, often due to excess heat produced from food digestion or circulation.
• Eczema: Can be caused by any one or more doshas but typically Pitta due to its inflammation-provoking qualities.
• Dry skin: Dry Skin is caused by an aggravated Vata dosha
• Oily Skin: Oily Skin occurs due to Kapha dominance causing imbalance.

Ayurvedic Skin Treatments

Abhyanga (self- massage)

Abhyanga or self-massage refers to the daily practice of massaging one’s own body using warm oil formulated specifically for the doshas present to increase circulation, detoxify the skin and facilitate relaxation.

Ubtan (herbal Paste)

Ubtan is a traditional face and body mask composed of herbs, spices and flour that exfoliates, cleanses, and nourishes the skin.

Lepam (herbal poultice)

A lepam is a thick herbal poultice made up of water-infused herbs to soothe inflammation and facilitate skin health conditions like inflammation. When applied externally it reduces swelling, soothes irritation, and encourages the healing of any existing conditions in your body.

Garshan (dry brushing)

Garshan (dry brushing) is an uplifting technique that involves brushing skin using a dry, natural bristle brush, to stimulate blood circulation, exfoliate dead cells from the skin surface, and improve lymphatic drainage. Dry brushing benefits all doshas but particularly kapha for relieving congestion.

Shirodhara (oil pouring)

Shirohdara is an oil pouring treatment designed to relax, de-stress and improve sleep quality for all doshas. It is beneficial for all doshas, especially Pitta to reduce heat and anxiety.

Nasya (nasal drops)

Nasya is an Ayurveda treatment that involves the administration of medicated oil into the nose to clear sinuses, improve head and neck circulation and boost overall well-being. It can benefit all doshas, especially Kapha, by reducing congestion.

Panchakarma

Panchakarma, also referred to as Five Fold Detoxification Therapy, is a five step detoxification system to flush away toxins, improve digestion and promote overall wellness, with notable changes to skin health as a result. It is recommended for all doshas especially Kapha for deeper detoxification processes.

Dietary and life style modifications

Consume a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains tailored for each dosha; get adequate sleep; reduce stress through yoga or meditation practices; and limit processed food and alcohol.

These practices support overall health and well-being, which will later reflect in healthy skin.

Ayurvedic Approach to Skin Care

Ayurvedic skin care aims at encouraging a healthy lifestyle and maintaining glowing skin throughout. Here are its key principles.

• Diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides essential nourishment for skin health and digestion. Processed food products, additional sugar or spicy or oily dishes should be avoided to avoid further imbalances that might worsen imbalances.
• Herbs: Ayurveda uses many herbs renowned for their skin benefits such as neem, turmeric, sandalwood and aloe vera, to promote radiant complexions.
• Oil massages: Abhyanga’s practice promotes circulation, hydration, and detoxification for overall well-being of body systems.
• Cleansing and Toning: Natural cleansers such as chickpea flour and rose water provide gentle yet effective cleansing without upsetting the balance of skin cells.
• Lifestyle: Sufficient rest, stress management strategies and regular exercise all play key roles in maintaining healthy skin.

Conclusion

Integrating Ayurveda principles into your skincare regimen can result in beautiful and radiant skin. By understanding your dosha constitution and employing Ayurvedic skin care treatments, Ayurveda offers an all-natural, holistic solution. Take up its wisdom for optimal skin health!

Consult with our qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for safe and holistic Ayurvedic skin care treatments in Melbourne.