Causes of Dry skin
Everyone desires clean and radiant skin, and achieving that is possible if we understand how to care for it properly. There are four types of skin: oily skin, dry skin, combination and normal skin. Our skin behaviour changes as per the outer climate. In a cold climate your skin gets dry, while in hot climate skin becomes oily. These are natural processes that happen based on the weather, but it’s important to know how to manage them. By taking care of our skin routine, it can remain beautiful and glowing in any climate.
Let’s explore the causes of dry skin:
- Poor Nutrition: When your body lacks the proper nutrients, it can lead to dry skin.
- Genetic Factors: Some people are naturally born with dry skin, but it can still be managed with proper care.
- Extreme Temperatures: Both extremely hot and cold temperatures can cause the skin to become dry.
- Clogged Pores: When pores get clogged, secretions don’t come out properly, leading to dryness. This can happen if we don’t cleanse our skin regularly.
In Ayurveda, it’s believed that an imbalance of the “Vata” dosha can lead to dry skin.
For oily skin, the problem often lies in enlarged pores that produce excess oil, leading to oiliness and stickiness, which can also cause acne. Managing oily skin requires attention to controlling this excess oil production.
By understanding these causes, we can take steps to care for our skin and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion.
1. Yogasana for Dry skin
Yoga can significantly help in managing skin issues by improving circulation and relieving stress. Regular practice of certain asanas can balance the skin’s natural oils, whether it’s too dry or oily, helping it become healthier. I would recommend dedicating at least two hours to yoga practice. Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) is especially beneficial for relieving tension in the face and improving blood flow, which positively impacts the skin. It also helps maintain overall body circulation.
Another effective asana is Halasana (Plow Pose), which stimulates circulation to the face and neck area, helping keep the body’s spine flexible. This pose also compresses the abdominal region, promoting better digestion, absorption, and assimilation.
In addition to these asanas, a technique called Jal Neti can improve circulation in the facial region. Practicing Jal Neti regularly is an excellent way to manage external stress, tension, and exposure to pollution or infections which is helpful for dry skin.
For Pranayama, Sheetali and Siddh Kari breathing techniques are excellent for cooling the body. The cooling effect helps balance the Vata dosha, which in Ayurveda is associated with dryness. These techniques also promote a calm, balanced mind.
As part of a skincare routine for dry skin, Abhyanga (self-massage) is highly beneficial. Just as babies are massaged with oil, adults can benefit from using oils like coconut oil, almond oil, sesame oil, or even castor oil. Massage these oils onto your body, including your face, neck, and back, and leave it for about 30 minutes to an hour before taking a bath. This technique nourishes the skin and helps manage dryness. If your skin still feels dry, you can rub some oil on your hands and legs again after your bath. This is a more natural alternative to body lotions.
2. Home remedies for Dry skin
Aloe vera Facepack – Another excellent remedy for dry skin is a homemade face pack made of aloe vera, honey, and sandalwood. Simply mix fresh aloe vera gel, a little honey, and sandalwood powder. Apply this mixture to your face and neck, leave it on for 15–20 minutes, and rinse it off with lukewarm water. This pack can be applied once or twice a week.
Hydrating mask – Mix almonds, oats, honey, and yogurt. Soak 5 to 6 almonds, grind them, and mix with oats, honey, and a spoonful of yogurt. Apply this paste to your face for 15–20 minutes, then wash it off with lukewarm water for soft and nourished skin. And say goodbye to dry skin.
3. Drinks for Dry skin
A) Morning Drink
Soak 1 tablespoon of chia seeds at night, add 1 cup of fresh aloe vera pulp and 1 amla in a mixing bowl, include 7-8 mint leaves and 7-8 basil leaves in the mixing bowl, and blend all these ingredients with 1 glass of water. Then add the soaked chia seeds and a little rock salt for taste. Drink this every morning to prevent your dry skin issues; mint leaves cleanse the pores and remove dirt. It acts as an astringent that helps your skin feel soft and hydrating. Basil leaves have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that protect your skin from damage. Chia seeds protect your dry skin from damage caused by UV radiation due to their antioxidant properties.
B) Healing Drink
At night, our body automatically starts the healing process. In a bowl, combine one chopped cucumber, 7-8 mint leaves, the juice of one lemon, a little cumin powder, and rock salt to taste. Blend all the mixture with a glass of water and your night healing drink is ready. Enjoy this drink every night to help your dry skin heal overnight. Cucumber reduces skin redness and inflammation, is good for acne-prone skin, and helps reduce early signs of aging. The antibacterial properties of cumin fight acne. The antibacterial properties of lemon protect the skin from premature aging. It also helps maintain the skin’s pH level.
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4. Daily routine for dry skin
To prevent dry skin, you can change your bathing habits. Instead of bathing in hot water, take a bath in mild lukewarm water. Similarly, if you are a man and want to shave your beard, do it immediately after bathing, as your skin is soft at that time, preventing irritation. Include moisturizer in your daily routine. Apply moisturizer immediately after bathing so that it locks into your dry skin and retains moisture. Protect your skin from cold and dry air. In cold weather, cover your face with a scarf, gloves, stole, etc.