Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that originated in India, and its ideas about balance and daily rituals have influenced many wellness and beauty trends. This guide explains the basic ideas and how a few of them can inspire a calmer everyday routine. It is general information, not medical advice.
What Is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is often translated as the "science of life". In Ayurvedic tradition, health is seen as a balance between mind, body and environment, and skin is considered part of that whole picture. Many Ayurvedic ideas come from tradition rather than modern clinical research, so it is best to treat them as cultural practices rather than proven treatments.
The Three Doshas
Ayurveda describes three doshas, called Vata, Pitta and Kapha. In traditional descriptions, each is linked to a different set of characteristics, and people are said to have a mix of them. These are traditional concepts. They are not medically established categories, and your skin type is best judged by how your own skin feels and behaves.
Traditional Rituals
Ayurvedic tradition includes warm oil massage, known as abhyanga, and the use of plant ingredients such as turmeric, sandalwood, rose and saffron. These are traditional practices. We are not able to say that they treat or improve any skin condition, and plant ingredients can irritate or cause allergic reactions in some people.
Ideas You Can Borrow
You do not need to adopt a whole system to enjoy a few of its ideas:
- Slow down. Treat your skincare routine as a few calm minutes rather than a chore.
- Keep it simple. A short routine you enjoy is easier to keep up than a long one.
- Notice how your skin feels. Adjust your routine as the seasons and your skin change.
- Read ingredient lists. Choose products with ingredients you are comfortable using, and patch test anything new.
- Look after the basics. Sleep, hydration and sun protection are part of any routine.
A Note on Safety
If you have a skin condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are considering a herbal or traditional treatment, speak to a GP or pharmacist first. Cosmetic products are not a substitute for medical care.
Shop These Products
These are not Ayurvedic products. They are simply items from the MinDrick Store range that suit a slower, more mindful routine. Check each product page and label for details.
Gloriously Good Pillow Perfume Mist - Rose Geranium, Lavender, Ylang Ylang & Vetiver
A scented pillow mist with rose geranium, lavender, ylang ylang and vetiver in the name. It is a fragrance product, so check the label if you have sensitive skin or allergies.
Ammuri Aloe Vera Gel 300g
A lightweight gel that the product page lists as usable as a daily moisturiser. Check the label for the full ingredient list.