Ayurvedic skincare has recently dominated the beauty world. Beauty brands are making everything from face oils with herbs to cleansers with sandalwood and turmeric, with everything from age defying to brilliant skin. But are they really the miracle cures they promise? Let’s take a good look at the Ayurvedic approach to skincare, and see if it’s really that really does live up to the hype.
What is the Ayurvedic approach to skin?
According to Ayurveda, by this Indian system of holistic healing for over 5,000 years, beauty starts from the inside out it’s not just about what you put on your skin but how balanced you are in body, mind and diet.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, the type of skin we have depends upon our dosha, and they’re either Vata, Pitta, or Kapha. Ayurvedic skincare products are generally thought to work to bring balance to those doshas by being made from herbal materials, oils and natural ingredients.
Ayurvedic skincare products often feature:
- Neem: combats acne while purifying skin
- Turmeric: brightens and evens skin tone
- Sandalwood: cools and calms irritated skin
- Aloe Vera: hydrates and soothes dryness
- Manjistha: aids in detoxification and blemish removal
While ancient herbal traditions are untested, many of these herb benefits are supported by modern day supplementation research.
Are There Real Benefits to Using Ayurvedic Skincare Products?
- Natural and Gentle
Ayurvedic skincare products cut out set harsh chemicals, sulfates, etc., and are natural and gentle and consequently appropriate and safe for sensitive skin with routine use.
- Holistic Healing
Ayurvedically based products do not treat surface situations. Ayurvedic formulations aim to heal the source of the issue rather than addressing surface issues for example: surface oil production or internal body heat leading to breakouts.
- Sustainable and Ethical
Many Ayurvedic brands use sustainable packaging and ethically sourced materials, which corresponds to the clean beauty movement.
- Customization for your Dosha
Ayurvedic skincare allows for customization based upon someone’s body type and skins current states rather than a one size fits all.
But Here’s the Assured Truth
Ayurvedic skincare is certainly therapeutic, but it is not a cure-all. The realities are complex results will vary with the type of skin you have, the consistency of application, and your lifestyle.
- It takes time. Ayurvedic products aren’t fast acting.
- Quality matters. Some of the brands that designate their products Ayurvedic, may include artificial preservatives or inferior herbs. Always analyze the ingredient list and claims.
- Diet and lifestyle conflict with efficacy. Even the best facial oil will not negate a poor diet or constant sources of stress – Ayurveda emphasizes inner wellbeing, too!
How to Choose the Right Ayurvedic Skincare Products
- Know Your Dosha: be sure you know your dominant dosha before you start to shop.
- Read Labels Closely: Look for true Ayurvedic herbs and cold pressed oils, and not fillers.
- Start with one or two products: begin with a herbal face wash or face oil and then other products can be added.
- Patch Test: despite the fact that many ingredients are natural, there can still be reactions to even natural ingredients always patch test first.
Final Summary: Justifiable Enthusiasm?
Definitely so, if you are making informed choices. Ayurvedic skincare isn’t simply about observing the latest fads, it is carved from ancient knowledge which honors your body’s innate rhythm. If you’re seeking a gentle, intergenerational, cross method approach to skincare that promotes beauty and balance; Ayurveda can be a journey you choose to take.
Keep in mind that Ayurveda is a journey and not a quick fix. Real “glow” comes from a balance of body, mind, and nature, a balance that is mindful of your skincare.
