Ayurveda (the science of life) is a holistic system of rules and beliefs concerning the spirit, body and mind. It originated in ancient India and is still commonly practised in the Middle East. Because Europeans want to learn the secrets of Hindu women and their beauty, Ayurveda is getting more and more popular in Europe. Before discussing basic oils, aromatic spices and plant extracts in Ayurveda, let us tell you what Ayurvedic beauty care involves and what are the natural Ayurvedic cosmetics. What are the three beauty types according to Ayurveda?

What does Ayurvedic beauty care focus on?

Natural oils fulfil a key function according to beauty rules in India: they moisturise, nourish and condition skin. They can be used as a separate product for body, face and hair care or for massage. Thanks to the qualities of oils, they often make up a greasy base product for cosmetics rich in herbs and vitamins. Ayurvedic practitioners believe that hot oil massage keeps you healthy, boosts your good looks and lifts your mood. It is possible because it speeds up removal of toxins from the body, moisturises, nourishes and relaxes.

Primary oils that Ayurveda is based on

The most common Ayurvedic oils:

• coconut oil – the most universal and multi-purpose. It has a moisturising and regenerating effect. This oil protects from the harmfulness of sun rays, enhances anti-acne treatment and improves the condition of hair making it softer and more elastic;
• sesame oil – it has warming and detoxifying effect, regulates the function of sebaceous glands and increases blood flow to skin. Also, the oil thickens hair and adds gloss;
• almond oil – it has a gentle, pleasant aroma which makes it popular in aromatherapy. It is famous for smoothening properties. The oil conditions sensitive, fragile skin;
• rose oil – it has an antiseptic and antibacterial effect, soothes skin inflammation and post-sun blemishes, as well as blocks the development of acne;
• tea tree oil – it fights bacteria, has antiseptic power and helps you get rid of skin imperfections.

Aromatic spices & plant extracts that Ayurveda is based on

Apart from the oils, Ayurveda also values spices and plant extracts. The most popular ones include:

• Amla – Indian gooseberry extract which is jam-packed with vitamin C and other antioxidants, as well as abounds in minerals such as calcium, iron and phosphorus. Amla purifies skin and shrinks the pores and thanks to vitamin C, it fights off free radicals, brightens and evens out the skin tone. Amla gives unbelievable hair benefits – it thickens and strengthens, adds volume, stimulates bulbs and reduces sebum overproduction.
• Neem herb – it nourishes hair and scalp, fights dandruff, softens hair and adds shine. Also, neem reduces the occurrence of blackheads and oiliness.
• Aloe extract – it speeds up wound healing and the formation of new cells. Aloe binds water in epidermis so it delivers elasticity to skin (especially fragile and extremely dry).
• Lotus flower extract – it has a strong moisturising and nourishing effect, evens out the skin tone and reduces spots and discoloration.
• Curcuma – it abounds in antioxidants which let the skin keep the youthful look longer. What’s more, it helps you treat skin conditions such as eczema, acne, psoriasis, extremely dry skin.
• Cinnamon – it restores a healthy shade to skin and leaves hair with a nice gingery glow and softness.

Three beauty types according to Ayurveda

Ayurveda mentions three types of energy known as doshas. Every human combines all of them but in most people – one of them prevails. The type of energy determines a person’s character traits, temperament, body structure and beauty type. There are the following doshas:

1. Vata

It is characterised by thin, dry skin and extremely dry hair. Vata should focus on moisturising and nourishing skin and hair. In order to achieve the goal, Vata should reach for coconut oil and moisturising extracts from Aloe and lotus.

2. Pitta

Fragile skin and oily hair are the characteristic features of this type. The facial skin is both slightly greasy and prone to irritations. Pitta should concentrate on skin-soothing and anti-aging treatments e.g. using almond oil or curcuma.

3. Kapha

It has oily, acne-prone skin and thick, stiff hair. Kapha should take face-cleansing and hair-softening treatments seriously. Indian herbs, coconut and tea tree oils are worth trying out.