Do you have dry, itchy, or flaky skin even after using moisturizers every day? Dry skin is very common. Some people have it all the time, while others notice it during certain seasons. In Ayurveda, this condition is called “Twak Rukshta” and is believed to have deeper causes.
Ayurveda, an ancient healing system from India, offers natural and gentle ways to treat dry skin. Let’s learn what causes dry skin and how Ayurveda can help.
What is Dry Skin?
Your skin makes a natural oil called sebum, which keeps it soft and smooth. When your skin makes less sebum, it becomes dry. Weather, long hot showers, harsh soaps, and aging can also make your skin dry and rough.
Ayurveda says dry skin happens when there is an imbalance in your body’s energies, called doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Dry skin is mostly caused by too much Vata or Pitta.
What Happens When Vata is Imbalanced?
Vata is made of air and space. It controls movement and dryness in the body. When Vata is high, it can lead to:
- Dry skin and scalp
- Cracked heels
- Brittle nails
Vata usually increases in cold and dry seasons like autumn and winter.
What Happens When Pitta is Imbalanced?
Pitta is made of fire and water. It controls heat and digestion. When Pitta is too high, your skin may become:
- Red or inflamed
- Itchy or irritated
- Prone to acne or rashes
What About Kapha?
Kapha is made of earth and water. It keeps the body strong and moist. High Kapha usually leads to oily skin, large pores, or acne. Kapha doesn’t usually cause dry skin and is more active during spring.
Signs of Dry Skin
You may have dry skin if you notice:
- Flaky or rough skin
- Itching
- Redness or burning
- Cracks or peeling
- Skin that bleeds easily
Why Does Dry Skin Happen?
Dry skin can be caused by:
- Cold or hot weather
- Harsh soaps or body washes
- Health issues like diabetes, eczema, or thyroid problems
- Aging and hormonal changes
- Stress, which increases Vata
Ayurveda uses special herbs to treat dry skin. You can use them in oils, creams, or supplements.
Ayurvedic Lifestyle Tips for Dry Skin
Ayurveda says your food (Ahara) and lifestyle (Vihara) affect your skin. Making a few changes can reduce dryness.
1. Eat Skin-Friendly Foods
- Juicy fruits: Like cucumber, watermelon, and oranges
- Cooked vegetables: Easier to digest, especially in cold weather
- Healthy fats: Add coconut oil, olive oil, or avocado to your meals. Eat nuts like almonds and walnuts.
- Stay hydrated: Drink warm water, herbal teas, and coconut water. Avoid cold drinks.
2. Do Daily Oil Massage (Abhyanga)
Massage your body with warm oil before your bath. It improves blood flow and softens the skin.
3. Sleep Well
Lack of sleep increases Vata and dries out your skin. Go to bed early and wake up early. Quality sleep helps your skin stay healthy.
4. Reduce Stress
Stress also increases Vata. Try yoga, breathing exercises, or meditation to relax your mind and improve skin health.
5. Use Warm, Not Hot, Water
Hot water strips natural oils from the skin. Take shorter baths with warm water instead of hot.
Dry skin is common, but you can manage it naturally with Ayurveda. Don’t ignore dry, flaky, or itchy skin—it can get worse over time. By balancing your doshas, eating the right foods, staying hydrated, and following healthy habits, you can keep your skin soft and glowing.
Know your body type (Prakriti) to choose the right herbs, oils, and foods. Ayurveda teaches us to care for our skin gently and naturally. With time, your skin will improve and feel healthier!