Ayurveda & Skin care

We know our skin is our biggest organ. Furthermore, everything we put on our skin has to be absorbed and processed by our body. Therefore, Ayurveda advocates for very simple skin care that is protective. This is a very important topic always but especially now as we will be spending more time in the sun! 

For all doshas, sun protection is key! Use a mineral based sunscreen (such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) which is a barrier type sunscreen. It is better for our health than other chemicals in sunscreens that can cause cancer and it is best for our oceans if you are swimming in water. 

Now, not all skin is the same. It can be classified as vata, pitta or kapha dominant.  

- Vata skin is dry, can be darker and has a tendency to be rough, such as dry eczema. Vata skin needs the most nurturing and protection as it is delicate. Avoid over drying or exfoliating & definitely avoid chemicals. Oil (such as sesame) will be your best friend.  Adding essential oils such as neroli, geranium and frankincense are beneficial also. 
- Pitta skin is soft, oily and fair - also the most sensitive. Pittas are more prone to rashes, redness, sun-sensitivity and overall aggravation. Cooling for the skin are coconut oil, neem (powder or oil), sandalwood and rose (powder or oil or rose water), lavender, chamomile and milk.
- Kapha skin is thick, oily, light in color and cool & has a tendency to overproduce oil & have blemishes. Kaphas may have large pores, blackheads and water retention if imbalanced. Exfoliation is the key. You can also dry brush not only your face but your whole body. Exfoliate with a mix of sea salt & honey. Other helpful ingredients can be clay, turmeric, & essential oils of tea tree, clove & clary sage which can dry skin out and warm it up.  

Additionally, I cannot talk about skin without talking about diet. If you are having skin problems, it's likely a deeper issue and you must consider what is going on with your diet, etc. Doshas manifesting on the skin are typically their way of escaping once they are out of balance within the body. You are what you eat - rather you are what you digest! Make sure your agni is functioning properly.