To follow up on my piece introducing the Ayurvedic doshas and the best practices lifestyle practices for each, I'd now like to introduce you to an ancient Ayurvedic skin care practice.
Mukhalepam is an ancient process in which the facial skin is massaged and coated with oils and herbal pastes, tailored to individual skin types. Here are a few of its many benefits. Increases the elasticity of the skin to prevent wrinkles and enhance smoothness.
Cleanses skin for a natural glow.
Prevents pigmentation.
Removes dead cells, and fades existing scars and blemishes.
When practicing Mukhalepam, apply pastes and oils gently against the direction of the hair. This ensures the active ingredients of the herbs will penetrate deep into the skin. Wash pastes off with cold water as soon as they dry — if they're kept on for too long, the skin may become excessively dry.
If you're Vata ...
This type of skin dries quickly and is especially vulnerable to shifts in weather. Vata skin must be protected from harsh heat and cold, as well as pampered to retain its natural oils and moisture. It's important to avoid hot water baths as they can dry your skin out. Be sure to use pH-balanced soaps and drink lots of water for hydration from the inside out.
Cleanse Use a solution of rose water and milk, gently massaging it into the skin.
Exfoliate Use rice or almond powder as an exfoliant to remove dead skin cells, which can diminish the skin’s natural glow. You may also want to steam your skin with mint leaves and plain water to open your pores and increase circulation.
Moisturize Aloe vera gel or cream may also be used to gently massage the facial skin and add extra moisture. Antioxidant- and oil-rich avocado has a number of benefits for the skin, and is chock full of healthy fatty acids and vitamins as well. Mash up an avocado into a smooth paste and apply it evenly to the face for 15 minutes, then rinse with cold water. Apply a few drops of almond oil and massage into the skin to moisturize it.
Source: www.UmaOils.com
BDST: 1712 HRS, MAY 19, 2015
Edited by: Sharmina Islam, Lifestyle Editor
