Who doesn’t dream of having beautiful, radiant, healthy skin glow? According to Ayurveda, maintaining the beauty of your skin involves balancing the three doshas – Vata, pitta, and Kapha. Proper functioning of

• Kapha keeps your skin moisturized
• Pitta is associated with hormonal activities which affect your skin
• Vata is related to the effective circulation of nutrients to the layers of your skin

Reasons For Good Skin Health And Natural Glow

Natural ways to improve skin glow are making the proper diet and lifestyle choices. Glowing skin has different meanings for different people. Ideally, skin glow generally refers to’ alive’ skin with a natural shine that is not dull and dry. Typical characteristics of skin glow are:

• smooth texture without any cracks
• supple without being too oily or too dry
• even color tone with no pimples or redness

But remember that even the most glamourous skin glow has its faults with visible pores, wrinkles, marks, etc. So don’t kill yourself for that flawless look.

If you follow a simple cleansing, moisturizing routine daily while applying sunscreen, you could save money spent at the parlor. Cleanse with a mild, pH-balanced cleanser to remove everyday impurities and oil from your skin. Immediately after cleansing, moisturizing with an oil-free moisturizer locks in the moisture, leaving your skin hydrated. Use a mineral-based, broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen to prevent skin damage from harmful UV radiations.

You could also try natural collagen supplements for skin and give yourself regular facial massages, apart from this daily routine. Consume a fiber-rich, nutrient-dense diet, incorporate healthy fats from nuts and seeds in your diet, and choose fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants that prevent oxidative stress. Avoid sugary foods and dairy products, engage in physical activity, and stay hydrated.

Homemade Skin Masks And Their Importance

Most of us depend on regular parlor visits to maintain our skin when all we need is to open our kitchen cabinets. Did you rue the weekends when your mother or grandma applied some besan, chandan, or banana peel on your face? What seemed stinky and gooey was heavenly for your skin glow.

The traditional homemade skin pack recipes are still applicable. But, we should be wary of the endless recipes floating on the internet. Also, when it comes to your body, especially the skin, do not experiment with herbs and other ingredients yourself.

Done right and with the right ingredients and in the right proportions, homemade skin packs are all you need for that glam, glowing look. These natural herbs and foods contain antioxidants and essential vitamins like A, C, and E that prevent skin damage from oxidative stress. They also cleanse and moisturize the skin naturally while gently exfoliating the skin. While you improve the quality of your diet, these homemade skin packs will prevent premature aging signs like wrinkles, fine lines, and other blemishes.

Different Homemade Masks – Their Uses And Precautions

Ayurveda incorporates skincare elements into the daily routine (dinacharya), taking care to tweak the routine according to the season. Ayurvedic literature offers a treasure trove of herbs and other natural ingredients that can benefit your skin glow. Let’s take a look at a few home remedies that can offer you radiant, beautiful skin glow.

1. Mulethi

In Ayurveda, mulethi or licorice is characterized as a ‘varnya’ herb. That is, it improves your complexion and the texture of your skin. Research indicates that it:

• Helps with eczema: Eczema can give you inflamed, itchy skin that looks blotchy.^[1][ Atopic Dermatitis](https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/atopic-dermatitis#tab-overview “Atopic Dermatitis”). National Institutes of Health. One study looked at the effect of using mulethi extract topically for this condition. Over two weeks, mulethi was found to be effective at reducing swelling, reddening and itching.^[2]Saeedi, Muadhamm, K. Morteza‐Semnani, and M‐R. Ghoreishi. “The treatment of atopic dermatitis with licorice gel.” Journal of Dermatological Treatment 14, no. 3 (2003): 153-157.
• Helps fade blemishes and suntans: Spots, marks, and discoloration can detract from a radiant complexion. But mulethi can help even out your skin tone. How does it work? A pigment called melanin is responsible for your skin color. The more melanin you have, the darker your skin tone. And when a small bit gets hyperpigmented, you get a dark spot. But Mulethi contains a compound called glabridin which can inhibit melanin production. So it can help you fade not just dark spots but even a suntan.^[3]Yokota, Tomohiro, Hiroyuki Nishio, Yasuo Kubota, and Masako Mizoguchi. “The inhibitory effect of glabridin from licorice extracts on melanogenesis and inflammation.” Pigment cell research … Continue reading
• Helps with acne and acne scars: Mulethi acts against acne-causing bacteria present on your skin. Moreover, it also has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effects and can also help erase dark spots and blemishes due to acne to give you a smooth, even-toned complexion.^[4]Raoufinejad, Kosar, and Mehdi Rajabi. “Licorice in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris and Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation: A Review.” Journal of Pharmaceutical Care (2020).

How To Use Mulethi

• For oily skin: Blend mulethi powder and water to prepare a paste. Leave it on your face for around 5 to 15 minutes before washing it off. You can also add an equal quantity of red sandalwood powder to up the power of this face pack.
• For dry skin: Mix 5 grams of mulethi powder with 10-15 drops of kumkumadi taila. Leave it on for 5 to 15 minutes before washing it off. You can use this pack once or twice a day.
• For combination skin: Mix mulethi powder with rose water or raw cow milk to form a paste. Leave it on for 5 to 15 minutes before washing it off. You can use this pack once a week.

Precaution While Using Mulethi

• Always do a patch test on a small skin area to ensure you are not allergic to the ingredient.

2. Turmeric

A common spice found in almost every kitchen, turmeric can do wonders for your skin glow. According to Ayurveda, it can balance all three doshas – vata, pitta, and kapha.

• Offers protection from sun damage: Research indicates that turmeric can offer your skin protection from sun damage. One study found that applying a turmeric extract prevented the formation of wrinkles and the reduction of skin elasticity in skin exposed to UVB rays.^[5]Sumiyoshi, Maho, and Yoshiyuki Kimura. “Effects of a turmeric extract (Curcuma longa) on chronic ultraviolet B irradiation-induced skin damage in melanin-possessing hairless mice.” … Continue reading
• Helps fade suntans and dark spots: Studies show that curcumin, a compound present in turmeric, can inhibit melanin production. So it can help rove a suntan or lighten dark spots.^[6]Tu, Cai‐Xia, Mao Lin, Shan‐Shan Lu, Xiao‐Yi Qi, Rong‐Xin Zhang, and Yun‐Ying Zhang. “Curcumin inhibits melanogenesis in human melanocytes.” Phytotherapy Research 26, no. 2 … Continue reading
• May ward off hair regrowth: Though it hasn’t been scientifically validated for this property, turmeric has traditionally been used to counter unwanted hair growth.

How To Use Turmeric

• Blend turmeric powder with yogurt or water to make a face pack. Wash it off as it dries. Do note that turmeric can stain your skin, giving it a yellow tinge. This tends to fade a couple of days later.^[7]Dueep Singh, John Davidson. Introduction to Ayurveda – Keeping Healthy the Ancient Way. Mendon Cottage Books. 2015
• To prepare a face mask, you can also mash 1 teaspoon of fresh turmeric and mix it with 2 teaspoons of aloe vera gel. 10 minutes after mixing these ingredients, apply it to your face and leave it on for 45-60 minutes before rinsing it off. This face mask is great for blemishes and acne scars.
• Ayurvedic practitioners advocate applying a paste of turmeric powder and water to your skin after hair removal. Leave it for 10 to 15 minutes before washing it off. This is thought to delay hair regrowth. Turmeric also has anti-microbial properties and can help heal small nicks or cuts that you might get during hair removal.

Precaution While Using Turmeric

• Do test all new skincare ingredients for an allergic reaction on a small skin patch before applying it to your face.

3. Pomegranate

Pomegranates are famed for their many health benefits. They’re great for your heart and can lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Ayurveda says sweet pomegranate helps balance all three doshas – vata, pitta, and kapha. However, sour pomegranate balances vata and kapha, but aggravates pitta. They are thought to improve digestion, treat certain kinds of fever, and improve your complexion. Let’s take a look at what these juicy fruits can do for your skin glow. Pomegranates:

• Have an anti-aging effect on skin: One animal study studied the effect of having pomegranate juice on mice exposed to UVB radiation for fifteen weeks. Pomegranate juice significantly lessened the development of wrinkles and improved skin water content and collagen.^[8]Kang, Su‑Jin, Beom‑Rak Choi, Seung‑Hee Kim, Hae‑Yeon Yi, Hye‑Rim Park, Chang‑Hyun Song, Sae‑Kwang Ku, and Young‑Joon Lee. “Beneficial effects of dried pomegranate juice … Continue reading Collagen is a protein which gives your skin firmness and elasticity. Unfortunately, we produce less collagen as we age, and our skin becomes less firm and elastic.^[9]Reilly, David M., and Jennifer Lozano. “Skin collagen through the life stages: Importance for skin health and beauty.” Plastic and Aesthetic Research 8 (2021).
• Fight sun damage: Pomegranates are a potent source of antioxidants. And research indicates that consuming these fruits can give your skin some protection against damage caused by exposure to the sun.^[10]Henning, Susanne M., Jieping Yang, Ru-Po Lee, Jianjun Huang, Mark Hsu, Gail Thames, Irene Gilbuena et al. “Pomegranate juice and extract consumption increases the resistance to UVB-induced … Continue reading

How To Use Pomegranates

• Juice up some pomegranates for a healthy drink. Or crack open a fruit and enjoy this fruit as a snack.
• Try a pomegranate face mask. To prepare the mask, combine three tablespoons of pomegranate seeds, a cup of oatmeal (cooked), two tablespoons of olive oil (extra virgin organic) and a tablespoon of honey. Let it sit for around 10 minutes after applying it to your face, and then wash off gently with warm water.

Precautions While Using Pomegranates

• Pomegranates are typically safe to consume. However, some people may be allergic to it.
• Always do a patch test on a small skin area to ensure you are not allergic to the ingredient.
• Pomegranates can interact with some medicines, such as certain immunosuppressants, calcium channel blockers, medicines used for treating high cholesterol levels etc. Consult with your doctor to know if any medication you’re on interacts with pomegranates before consuming it.^[11][What Is Pomegranate Juice?](https://www.verywellhealth.com/pomegranate-juice-may-interact-with-certain-medications-89171 “What Is Pomegranate Juice?”). Verywell Health.

4. Shatavari

Asparagus racemosus or Shatavari has always been valued for its medicinal properties. But do keep in mind that this is not the asparagus that’s usually eaten as a vegetable. That’s Asparagus Officinalis.

Shatavari is considered a female tonic in Ayurveda, and it’s used to treat a range of conditions from dysentery to conjunctivitis.^[12]Hasan, Noorul, Nesar Ahmad, Shaikh Zohrameena, Mohd Khalid, and Juber Akhtar. “Asparagus racemosus: For medicinal uses & pharmacological actions.” International Journal of Advanced … Continue reading So, how does it help your skin glow? It

• Helps ward off wrinkles: According to one study, the application of shatavari was effective in preventing wrinkle formation in adult volunteers.^[13]Rungsanga, Tammanoon, Punpimol Tuntijarukornb, Kornkanok Ingkaninanc, and Jarupa Viyocha. “Stability and clinical effectiveness of emulsion containing Asparagus racemosus root extract.” … Continue reading
• Helps fade blemishes and suntans: Research indicates that Shatavari extracts can inhibit the production of the pigment melanin. This means that they can be useful in tacking hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and blemishes.^[14]Therdphapiyanak, Narin, Montree Jaturanpinyo, Neti Waranuch, Lalana Kongkaneramit, and Narong Sarisuta. “Development and assessment of tyrosinase inhibitory activity of liposomes of Asparagus … Continue reading

How to use Shatavari

• As a face mask: Add Shatavari powder to milk or honey to make a face mask. Apply it to your face and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes before washing it off.

5. Banana

Delicious, easy to eat bananas can also be good for your skin glow. They

• Help fade suntans and blemishes: According to a study, banana peel extracts effectively inhibit the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for hyperpigmentation.^[15]Phacharapiyangkul, Naphichaya, Krit Thirapanmethee, Khanit Sa-Ngiamsuntorn, Uraiwan Panich, Che-Hsin Lee, and Mullika Traidej Chomnawang. “Effect of sucrier banana peel extracts on inhibition … Continue reading
• Help counter sun damage: One study found that mice exposed to UVB rays experienced less oxidative stress when they were fed bananas. Oxidative stress due to exposure to the Sun can lead to premature skin aging, inflammation, and even skin cancer.^[16]Albrecht, S., S. Jung, R. Müller, J. Lademann, T. Zuberbier, L. Zastrow, C. Reble, I. Beckers, and M. C. Meinke. “Skin type differences in solar‐simulated radiation‐induced oxidative … Continue reading ^[17]Leerach, Nontaphat, Swanya Yakaew, Preeyawass Phimnuan, Wichuda Soimee, Wongnapa Nakyai, Witoo Luangbudnark, and Jarupa Viyoch. “Effect of Thai banana (Musa AA group) in reducing accumulation … Continue reading

How To Use Bananas

• Blend a clean banana peel with a little honey and lemon juice. Apply to your face and rinse off after 10-15 minutes.
• Mash a ripe banana and:
  • add with small amount of lemon/orange juice to lighten the scars
  • add honey to counter oily skin
  • add yogurt to moisturize your skin

Precautions While Using Bananas

• According to Ayurveda, bananas are difficult to digest. So people with poor digestion (or low digestive agni) should limit their consumption.
• Do test all new skincare ingredients for an allergic reaction on a small skin patch before applying it to your face.

6. Frankincense

Frankincense has been valued in traditional medicinal systems for its expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties.^[18]Al-Yasiry, Ali Ridha Mustafa, and Bożena Kiczorowska. “Frankincense-therapeutic properties.” Advances in Hygiene & Experimental Medicine/Postepy Higieny i Medycyny Doswiadczalnej 70 … Continue reading It offers great benefits for your skin glow too. Frankincense essential oil, which is obtained from the resin of the frankincense tree, can

• Helps keep skin supple: As we age, our skin loses its suppleness and becomes less elastic. A protein known as elastin keeps your skin supple. And studies show that boswellic acids present in frankincense oil act against elastase, which is an enzyme that breaks down elastin.^[19]Thring, Tamsyn SA, Pauline Hili, and Declan P. Naughton. “Anti-collagenase, anti-elastase and anti-oxidant activities of extracts from 21 plants.” BMC complementary and alternative … Continue reading
• Erases fine lines and counters sun damage: One study used a slit face study to examine the effects of boswellic acids obtained from Frankincense on skin glow. It was found that when a cream containing boswellic acids was applied to one side of the face that side showed improvements in fine lines and the effects of photoaging (signs of aging brought on by exposure to the harmful rays of the sun).^[20]Calzavara‐Pinton, Piergiacomo, Cristina Zane, Elena Facchinetti, Rossana Capezzera, and Alessandra Pedretti. “Topical Boswellic acids for treatment of photoaged skin.” Dermatologic … Continue reading
• Soothes skin inflammation: Many skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis are characterized by inflammation. One study found that applying a cream containing boswellic acids eases reddening and scaling of the skin and reduces itching in people with inflammatory skin conditions.^[21]Togni, Stefano, Giada Maramaldi, Francesco Di Pierro, and Massimo Biondi. “A cosmeceutical formulation based on boswellic acids for the treatment of erythematous eczema and psoriasis.” … Continue reading

How To Use Frankincense

• Dilute frankincense oil with a carrier oil such as almond or grapeseed oil and apply it to your skin.
• You can even add a few drops of this amazing oil to your moisturizer and make it a part of your skincare regimen.^[22]Alexander, Skye. Aromatherapy Card Deck: 50 Fragrances That Soothe Your Mood, Calm Your Mind, and Heal Your Body. Fair Winds Press, 2010.

Precaution While Using Frankincense

• Do test all new skincare ingredients for an allergic reaction on a small skin patch before applying it to your face.

7. Carrot

According to Ayurveda carrots are easy to digest(laghu) with sweet (madhura) and bitter (tikta) rasa or taste. As children, we’ve all been told that carrots are good for your eyes. But did you know that they’re good for your skin too? Here’s what carrots can do for your skin glow. They:

• Provide nutrients that give you great skin: Carrots can give you two important nutrients that benefit your skin glow – beta carotene and vitamin C. Beta carotene present in carrots can protect against skin damage due to sunlight. Meanwhile, vitamin C helps stimulate the production of collagen, a protein that keeps your skin looking firm and young.^[23]Stahl, Wilhelm, and Helmut Sies. “β-Carotene and other carotenoids in protection from sunlight.” The American journal of clinical nutrition 96, no. 5 (2012): 1179S-1184S. ^[24][Vitamin C and Skin Health](https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/skin-health/vitamin-C “Vitamin C and Skin Health”). Oregon State University.
• Helps rejuvenate skin: Carrot seed oil has traditionally been used to nourish and rejuvenate skin. Antioxidants present in carrot seeds are thought to help repair skin damage caused by free radicals. One study found that a cosmetic preparation containing carrot seed oil offered some degree of protection against skin damage caused by sun exposure and may help rejuvenate skin. However, it’s important to remember that carrot seed oil is not strong enough to replace a good sunscreen.^[25]Singh, Shalini, Alka Lohani, Arun Kumar Mishra, and Anurag Verma. “Formulation and evaluation of carrot seed oil-based cosmetic emulsions.” Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy 21, no. 2 … Continue reading

How To Use Carrots

• Make carrots a part of your diet to get their nutritional benefits. You can have them raw or add them to soups, stir-fries, salads, and even a smoothie.
• You can apply carrot seed oil to your skin after diluting it with a carrier oil such as grapeseed oil or coconut oil.

Precautions While Using Carrots

• Having huge quantities of carrots can lead to a condition called carotenemia. This is a harmless condition where your skin gets a yellowish tinge. It tends to resolve itself soon after you stop eating carrots.^[26][Carrot Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits](https://www.verywellfit.com/calories-in-carrots-3495643 “Carrot Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits”). Verywell fit.
• Do test all new skincare ingredients for an allergic reaction on a small skin patch before applying it to your face.

8. Gram Flour (Besan)

Gram flour or besan is prepared by grinding chickpeas into a fine powder. According to Ayurveda, it balances pitta and kapha dosha while increasing vata dosha. It

• Works as a cleanser: Traditionally, gram flour has been used extensively as a body wash powder. In fact, many people use only gram flour for bathing babies because they don’t want to use chemical products.

How To Use Besan

• Gram flour can be mixed with water and used as a cleanser.
• For adults, it can also be mixed in a 1:1 ratio with beneficial herbal products such as sandalwood powder, manjistha, khadira, etc., to make face packs.
• For oily skin, make a paste of red sandalwood powder, gram flour, and water. Apply this to your face and wash it off after 10-15 minutes for clean, refreshed skin.

Precaution While Using Besan

• Do test all new skincare ingredients for an allergic reaction on a small skin patch before applying it to your face.

9. Yogurt

Yogurt contains lactic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid widely used in skincare. It

• Works as a gentle exfoliator and removes dead skin cells.
• Lightens suntans and dark spots
• Eases wrinkles and fine lines

How To Use Yogurt

• Prepare a face mask by adding a teaspoon of honey to ¼ of a cup of yogurt. Let the mask work for around 15 minutes before washing it off.^[27][An Overview of Lactic Acid Skin Care]( https://www.verywellhealth.com/lactic-acid-skin-care-4178819 “An Overview of Lactic Acid Skin Care”). Verywell Health.

Precaution While Using Yogurt

• Do test all new skincare ingredients for an allergic reaction on a small skin patch before applying it to your face.

10. Papaya

Papayas can be diced into a salad or added to smoothies or soups for a great shot of flavor. According to ayurveda, they balance pitta and vata while increasing kapha dosha. This fruit:

• Provides you with nutrients that support your skin: Papayas are a great source of vitamin C. Vitamin C plays a part in the production of collagen, a protein needed for skin integrity and helps keep it looking young. They’re also a good source of beta carotene – the same compound that’s present in carrots- which means they can offer protection against the damaging effects of the Sun.^[28][ Papaya Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits]( https://www.verywellfit.com/papayas-nutrition-facts-calories-and-health-benefits-4114326 “Papaya Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits”). Verywell Fit. ^[29]Schweiggert, Ralf M., Rachel E. Kopec, Maria G. Villalobos-Gutierrez, Josef Högel, Silvia Quesada, Patricia Esquivel, Steven J. Schwartz, and Reinhold Carle. “Carotenoids are more bioavailable … Continue reading
• May offer anti-aging properties: Papayas are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Experts suggest that since oxidative stress plays a significant role in the aging of the skin, papayas may help keep your skin looking young.^[30]Kong, Yew Rong, Yong Xin Jong, Manisha Balakrishnan, Zhui Ken Bok, Janice Kwan Kah Weng, Kai Ching Tay, Bey Hing Goh et al. “Beneficial Role of Carica papaya Extracts and Phytochemicals on … Continue reading
• Works as an exfoliator: Papaya contains an enzyme called papain which helps to remove dead skin cells.^[31]Charlotte Vohz. Naturally Georgeous. Ebury Press. 2007.

How To Use Papaya

• Rub a slice of papaya over your skin and wait 5 minutes before rinsing it off for fresh, exfoliated skin.^[32]Charlotte Vohz. Naturally Georgeous. Ebury Press. 2007.
• Snack on this delicious fruit to benefit from the nutrients that it offers.

Precautions While Using Papaya

• Some people are allergic to papayas. People who are allergic to foods like pistachios, cashew, or mango may also be allergic to papayas.
• Do apply papaya flesh to a small area first to test if your skin reacts adversely to it before using it for exfoliation.

11. Acai Berry

Acai berries are native to South America and have quite a reputation as a ‘superfood’. These berries can also work wonders for your skin glow. They

• Have an anti-aging effect on the skin: UVA radiation from sunlight can induce cellular oxidative stress. This causes skin cells to age and is linked to many changes that we associate with aging skin, such as wrinkles.^[33][Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1011134417302610 “Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation”). American Cancer Society. One study found that an Acai extract was able to offer strong protection against UVA-induced oxidative cells. Antioxidant compounds such as malvidin and cyanidin present in Acai berries are thought to be responsible for this effect. So, noshing on these berries can help prevent age-related skin damage.^[34]Petruk, Ganna, Anna Illiano, Rita Del Giudice, Assunta Raiola, Angela Amoresano, Maria Manuela Rigano, Renata Piccoli, and Daria Maria Monti. “Malvidin and cyanidin derivatives from açai fruit … Continue reading
• Soothe allergic skin reactions: An allergic reaction can cause inflamed and irritated skin. But acai berries have anti-inflammatory properties and may be helpful here. According to a study, when rats were given acai oil, it significantly calmed the skin reaction they had due to an irritant. It has been found that acai oil can reduce your response to histamine, a chemical released by your body responsible for most of the symptoms we experience during allergic reactions.^[35]Favacho, Hugo AS, Bianca R. Oliveira, Kelem C. Santos, Benedito JL Medeiros, Pergentino JC Sousa, Fabio F. Perazzo, and José Carlos T. Carvalho. “Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive … Continue reading

How To Use Acai Berry

• You can snack on fresh acai berries or add them to a smoothie. ^[36][What are acai berries, and what are their possible health benefits?](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/acai/faq-20057794 “What are acai … Continue reading
• Prepare a face mask by mixing acai berry powder and a cup of mashed strawberries. Apply on damp, clean skin.
• Acai oil can also be diluted with a carrier oil (for example, almond or coconut oil) and applied to moisturize your skin.

Precautions While Using Acai Berry

• Always do a patch test on a small skin area to ensure you are not allergic to the ingredient.
• Acai berries are typically safe to consume. However, we don’t have enough data on whether they’re safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Stay safe and avoid use, if either.
• Check with your doctor before taking acai supplements for skin or if you plan on having larger quantities than are normally eaten as food.
• Eating large quantities of acai berries before an MRI test can affect the results. Do let your doctor know if you’ve had acai berries before the test.^[37][What are acai berries, and what are their possible health benefits?](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/acai/faq-20057794 “What are acai … Continue reading

Ayurvedic Guidelines For Application Of Face Packs

• All face pack (or lepa) preparations are supposed to be used as soon as they are prepared. That is, they must be applied when they are fresh.
• The lepa is supposed to be applied against the direction of hair growth for quicker and better absorption.
• You should remove the lepa when it dries out as it loses its potency and may irritate your skin after it dries. To remove the lepa you should first moisten it with water. And after removal, you should apply oil to your face.
• You should not apply one lepa over another.
• Mukha lepa should ideally be applied in the morning (around 20 mins before you have your bath, evening, or after you have digested food that has been previously consumed. They should not be applied at night or left on overnight.
• People suffering from pinasa (rhinorrhea or runny nose), ajirna (indigestion), arochaka (anorexia), hanugraha (lockjaw) should not apply mukha lepa. You should also not use it immediately after nasya karma (using nasal drops) or after staying awake the previous night (jagaran).

Conclusion

Ageless glowing skin is soft, supple, and warm to the touch. Incorporating the right lifestyle and diet changes can literally add years to your skin glow. Choose the right herbs and ingredients to make simple homemade face packs. You can also adopt natural supplements for skin glow. Your skin will thank you and reward you back for this nourishing care. 

FAQs

Q1. How effective are homemade face masks?

Very effective. Homemade face masks use natural ingredients like fruits, herbs, etc., that get easily absorbed by the skin. These face masks can cleanse, moisturize and exfoliate your skin naturally and make your skin glow. Ensure that you choose the right recipes and pure ingredients. Also, do a small patch test on your skin before applying it to your face. 

Q2. How often can I use homemade face masks?

Daily. Some face masks can also be applied twice a week, weekly, fortnightly, or monthly. The frequency of application depends upon the action of the face mask, ingredients used, and the skin issue that you are tackling. You can apply a cleanser and moisturizer daily using gentler ingredients. If you are treating chronic issues like acne, then applying the face mask for a week daily might be required. As with everything, moderation is the key. Nourish the skin and allow it to heal naturally.

Q3. Can I use homemade face masks every day?

Yes. You can. Based on the ingredients, skin issues, and season you can choose to apply a face mask daily. For oily skin, cleansing might be needed daily or moisturizing during the dry season. Take breaks after a week’s application to see the results and make changes accordingly. Take special care with ingredients that are known to be abrasive or harsh on the skin.

Q4. Can anyone use homemade face masks?

Yes. Everyone can use face masks as a preventative and curative skincare routine. Try doing a skin patch test to check for allergies or reactions to specific ingredients. Discard the face mask recipe if you experience redness, burning, or inflammation on the skin patch. For chronic conditions, consult a dermatologist or medical practitioner.

Q5. What to do in case of a skin reaction to homemade face masks?

Remove the face mask and discard the prepared recipe. Try making changes to the recipe and doing a skin patch test to see if the problem persists. You can also consult a dermatologist or medical practitioner to understand what ingredients work and do not work for your specific skin type and ailment.

Q6. Can people with sensitive skin use homemade face masks?

People with sensitive skin should be careful before applying a face mask. Even though natural, some ingredients can be irritating to your skin. Do an allergy test or even a skin patch test to ascertain if a certain face mask recipe will work for you.

Q7. Who should avoid homemade face masks?

People with sensitive skin, people who are allergic to certain foods like herbs, fruits, dairy products, animal products like honey, etc. Consult with your doctor before starting with new ingredients. Perform a simple skin patch test to check for allergic reactions to ingredients. For chronic skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, etc., seek medical advice rather than experimenting with homemade skin recipes.