Whether it is about being struck by a nasty cold or a throbbing headache, we all have our gloomy days. But the instant relaxation that comes along just with the inhalation of Eucalyptus oil or Peppermint oil is astounding. It takes away most of the uneasiness, allowing us to heave a sigh of relief, setting us ready once again to get back on our feet to move along the hustle and bustle of life. 

Ever wondered what exactly are these essential oils, and why are they so effective? This article will guide you through everything you need to know about essential oils, their benefits, and uses. It’ll also help you identify the right essential oil for your needs.

What Are Essential Oils?

Plants have been of use to mankind since ages unknown. Over the years, many of the beneficial plants have been experimented with to derive useful compounds. The essential oils are the volatile aromatic derivatives of the extracts of these beneficial plants. They are manufactured in the concentrated format from the source plant’s roots, leaves, bark, stem, resins, flowers, etc.

They are called ‘essential’ because the oil encapsulates the plant’s essence, flavor, and scent. Further, the plant from which the oil has been derived gives the essential oil its complete name.

The scent of the essential oil is much stronger than the plant used to derive it as the number of active ingredients in the oil is much higher. The amount of substance needed to make the oil requires multiple plants of the same kind causing the extract to be very concentrated. The different aromatic components in every plant give each essential oil its characteristic essence.

The two widely known techniques to derive the oil from these incredible plants are the cold-press and distillation methods. The process through which essential oils are extracted and manufactured is crucial as it determines the overall quality and efficacy. In case the method used is chemical-based, the benefits of the essential oil reduce considerably.

Organic Essential Oils by Kama Ayurveda are made by distilling hydrophobic liquid, sourced from different parts of the plants like the flowers, roots, barks, fruits, and leaves. They contain volatile aroma compounds that emit a mesmerizing fragrance and are ideal for massages, aromatherapy, and wax candles. 

The Complete List of Essential Oils

As of today, there are over 100 Essential Oils across the world with their unique aroma and healing properties. In this section, we’ll talk about some of the most-well known Essential Oils and highlight their top benefits and features.

• Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil
  
  

Want an all-purpose essential oil with a sensual and exotic floral fragrance? Ylang Ylang is the perfect essential oil to promote inner peace, confidence, and relaxation.

This oil contains properties that work against skin irritation and aging of the skin and help retain a youthful glow. It can be applied on the hair to keep the hair shiny, bouncy, and tangle-free. The fragrance of this oil works as an antidepressant, and its mild sedative effect relieves those suffering from insomnia and stress. It is even beneficial in controlling the blood pressure levels and stabilizing the heart rate.

• Tea Tree Essential Oil
  
  

Suffering from skin problems and want to heal them naturally? Tea Tree Essential oil derived by the steam distillation of twigs and leaves of tea trees is well known for its beauty applications. It is considered one of the effective methods for spot treatment of acne, pimples, and blemishes. It even relieves from dry skin-related issues like eczema and psoriasis.

Tree oil also works against dandruff formation and also aids in getting rid of lice infestation on the scalp. However, this oil should not be applied before heading out in the sun as the UV rays could sensitize the skin adversely.

• Sweet Basil Essential Oil
  
  

Basil's benefits are already quite well-known for many years as it aids in warding off many ailments of the respiratory system. The traditional Ayurvedic medicine considers Sweet Basil as an incredible immunity booster.

When used topically, it helps to keep bringing back the luster of dull skin. It also works against acne symptoms. While applying on hair, it adds to the shine while stripping away the greasiness or previous product build-up.

• Orange Essential Oil
  
  

Don't we all need an energizing aroma to uplift the mood from time to time? The exhilarating scent of Orange essential oil works as an instant stress reliever. Its citrus scent appeals to the senses and promotes a feeling of warmth and joy.

This oil is high in antioxidant properties and acts as an immunity booster as well. It contains a significant amount of limonene, which promotes collagen production and, at the same time, reduces aging-related complications like wrinkles and dark

• Lime Essential Oil
  
  

This oil has banked the name of ‘liquid sunshine’ because of its yellow color. Cold-pressed from the peel of fresh limes, this essential oil is a highly refreshing and energizing ingredient with a variety of positive effects. It has powerful anti-microbial and immunity-boosting properties.

This essential oil is particularly useful for alleviating mental tension, lifting negative energy, and fatigue, and PMS. Its aroma instantly lifts the mood and induces positive energy.

• Lemongrass Essential Oil

If you’re looking for an essential that works as a natural air freshener and makes you feel closer to nature, then Lemongrass essential oil is perfect for you. It uplifts, exhilarates, and deodorizes naturally. The light lemony relaxing and hypnotic fragrance relieves anxiety, irritability, and insomnia.

This oil is filled with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties providing relief from muscle and joint pains. It also has anti-microbial properties hence reduces the formation of unwanted bacteria. 

• Pine Essential Oil

With a uniquely fresh aroma, this gorgeous woodsy oil is cold-pressed from Pine trees grown in regions like the cold climes of Himachal in India. A crispy, woody scent is known for evoking feelings of stability, energy, harmony and comfort.

The oil is extracted from the leafy needles of the pine tree. It is majorly used to treat skin related ailments like acne, psoriasis, athlete's foot, itching, and eczema. It even keeps any kind of redness, swelling, and inflammation away. When applied on the scalp, it counters dryness and dandruff formation.

• Peppermint Essential Oil
  
  

Peppermint essential oil has an instantaneously recognizable minty fragrance that invigorates the mind and body. The calm, soothing effect of this oil helps it work against muscle cramps, owing to its antispasmodic properties. It even fights against inflammation and gives relief from pain. Considering all these properties, it is highly beneficial as a post-workout massaging oil. It also eases PMS and soothes headaches.

• Lavender Essential Oil
  
  

Cherished for its unmistakable aroma and myriad benefits for beauty and wellness, Lavender has contributed to the most used essential oil consumption globally. It has a myriad of benefits. This oil has soothing and cooling properties, because of which it reduces the irritation and redness on the skin. When applied on the scalp, it works as a toner and provides relief to itchy scalp. The fragrance of this oil helps in reducing the cortisol levels, therefore, acting as a stress reliever. Adding this oil to bath water helps soak away stress and promote restful sleep at night.

• French Cypress Essential Oil
  
  

Cypress oil has the superpower of controlling the sebum production when applied over the skin. It, therefore, is a must-oil to combat issues faced by the oily skin type. It aids in cleansing the skin and tightening the pores. The aroma of this oil is known to enhance the mood and evoke a feeling of wellness.

• Bergamot Essential oil
  
  

Bergamot is a light citrus oil that has properties that aid in reducing the scars and pigmentation. It also works in balancing the production of melanin and tones the skin. When used with a carrier oil and applied topically, this oil diminishes muscle ache and is also useful in relieving arthritis-related discomforts. It even works as a natural perfume and is widely used in the production of scented candles and soaps.

• Eucalyptus Essential oil

Filled with purifying properties, Eucalyptus oil aids in clarifying and cleansing the skin. Its aroma works as an effective immunity booster and also relieves muscle tension.

It has antiseptic properties and works to relieve pain or itching caused by insect bites. It has medicinal properties that help ease breathing and clear nasal passage specifically for conditions like asthma. It is advised to use a carrier oil and not apply eucalyptus oil directly over the skin as it could give rise to an allergic reaction.

• Citronella Essential oil
  
  

This oil has the potential to work as a detoxifier that aids in clarifying the skin complexion. It is also known for its medicinal properties as it is antiseptic and prevents wounds or injuries from getting infected. It relieves menstrual cramps and also soothes inflammation occurring in the digestive system. It works as an insect repellent and deodorant.

• Cinnamon Essential oil
  
  

This spicy warm oil has antioxidant properties which replenish the skin and works as an anti-aging product. It also fixes the skin condition that gives rise to inflammation, redness, and rashes. On application on the scalp, it boosts the hair growth and fosters shine along the lengths of the hair. Its fragrance works against nausea and adds a sense of harmony and comfort in the surroundings.

• Geranium Essential oil
  
  

Germanium oil is known for its ability to eliminate dead skin cells and promote restoration of the skin. It has astringent plus anti-aging properties that aid in providing firmness to the skin and lessening sagging and wrinkles formation. This oil allows muscles to contract, thereby providing it a tightened appearance and fostering a toned body look. The fragrance of this oil is known to provide relief from insomnia and stress.

Next, let’s understand more about categorized use of these essential oils.

Are Essential Oils Effective?

Now that you are aware of a variety of Essential Oils and their role in promoting our general health and wellbeing, you might be curious to know how effective they are in offering all of the benefits discussed above?

The answer is - yes. But, you must only the purest and the best quality essential oils for the best results. In this section, we’ll talk about the many effective uses of Essential oil for health, cosmetic and relaxation purposes.

Shop Kama Ayurveda Pure Essential Oils 

• Essential Oils Uses For Health
  
  

Since ancient times, the essential oils have been used to combat cold and flu-related symptoms. They help in inhibiting the harmful bacteria and enhancing the immunity of the individual. Few of them even help in preventing diseases due to their antibacterial properties.

Being invisible to the naked eye, the spread of germs in the air is the main reason behind most air-borne diseases. Using the diluted version of the oils rich in anti-microbial properties as an air freshener helps eliminate these microbes. Adding essential oil like Eucalyptus to boiling water and inhaling the vapors have proven benefits of sinus decongestion. Some essential oils like Peppermint and Lemongrass work wonders for those suffering from muscle ache and joint pain. They also help in easing out menstrual cramps and PMS.

• Cosmetic Use Of Essential Oils

Essential oils are also used in cosmetic products to enhance the result provided by the end-product. For example, adding these oils to moisturizers enhances the capability of just moisturizing to include other benefits like clearing the skin, diminishing blemishes, and reduction in aging-related symptoms like wrinkles and fine lines. 

Essential oils also possess cell-regenerative potentialities. Many skin conditions like acne, Eczema, Psoriasis are reduced with the application of these oils, due to their healing benefits.

When applied on the scalp, the oils work efficiently to promote hair growth, increase the volume, and add to the shine. Also, dandruff and lice treatment are possible with the use of these oils. 

The essential oils are commonly found in natural beauty products. Ditch the commercially manufactured chemical products for natural ones to experience the cosmetic benefits of these essential oils visibly.

• Essential Oil Uses To Promote Well Being

When using these oils as air fresheners or diffusers, their stimulating effects are known to improve the mood of the person and effectively instill a sense of peace, gratitude, and relaxation. They are used as an effective stress buster to declutter the mind.

The subtle aroma of these oils described as woody, earthy, spicy, and clean is used in religious environments to enhance the mystical experience one embraces. The use of these oils could be inculcated in a person’s routine by topical application or inhalation. However, it is advisable to ask and confirm with your general practitioner before using them to avoid irritation.

Essential Oils and Ayurveda

We have seen how the essence of these oils can enhance your physical health and the surrounding space. Now, let's talk about the significance of essential oils, according to Ayurveda.

Ayurveda is one of the oldest known health systems. Even with the onset of modern medications, Ayurveda is in the limelight. It is known for its holistic treatment approach, which often contradicts the present rage of instant cure of outward symptoms.

To begin with, Ayurveda classifies every individual into a specific dosha type. Our body reacts to the surroundings on the physiological or psychological forefront based on the dosha a person possesses.

All people based on their energy could be categorized into the following three types of dosha: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. According to Ayurveda, every essential oil has a unique characteristic that can be used to balance the doshas.

• Vata
  
  

Stress and anxiety are significant elements faced when Vata is aggravated. It leads to coldness and dryness related imbalances in the body. To counter these, warming essential oils like Rosewood, Cinnamon, Sandalwood, Basil, Clove, Ginger, Camphor, Bergamot, or Oregano could be utilized.

• Pitta
  
  

Pitta has the characteristic of inducing heat in the body when irked. As a result, problems like skin irritations, odorous sweating, and inflammation appear. They can be treated with cooling based essential oils like Peppermint, Lavender, Lemongrass, Ylang-Ylang, Rose, Gardenia, and Jasmine to induce a feeling of calmness and dispel heat.

• Kapha
  
  

Kapha is known for a soft, slow, lethargic, and cold-based nature. The most commonly face issues leading to accumulation of fluids like mucus causing illness such as running nose, bronchitis, cold sweat, itching. These can be treated with warm and spicy overtones of essential oils such as eucalyptus, clove, basil, cedar, black pepper, and orange.

Many ayurvedic practitioners recommend balancing the doshas with aromatherapy over the topical application or internal consumption of these oils.

How to Use Essential Oils

Since we have understood the benefits and effectiveness of the essential oils, let's dive into the next section that directs one on how these essential oils should be used.

Essential oils can be inhaled by vaporization, ingested, or applied on the skin or scalp. However, there are specific instructions and methods that one needs to know before use.

The Importance Of Carrier Oils 

As mentioned at the beginning of the article, essential oils are derived and stored in a highly concentrated format. Direct use could do more harm than good, like skin irritation, redness, and burning in many cases. It is recommended to use carrier oils along with the desired essential oil.

You need a carrier oil to dilute the concentration of the essential oil. The carrier oil does not impede the therapeutic properties of the essential oil nor dilute the effectiveness. It merely performs the duty of carrying the properties of the essential oil along with their own. There are many carrier oils available in the market, few of the beneficially well-known ones are as mentioned ahead.

• Organic Cold-Pressed Virgin Coconut oil
  
  

Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids and polyphenols, making it an ideal carrier oil for massages and skincare. They can easily penetrate the skin as their molecules are small in size. The oil molecules of the essential oil are also considerably small; these oils, when combined, provide wholesome nourishment to the skin as they are readily absorbed.

Coconut oil itself has moisturizing and soothing properties that help to lubricate the skin, prevent dryness, and keeps it replenished.

Read - Why Is Virgin Coconut Oil Good For Your Skin

• Jojoba oil
  
  

Jojoba oil is not considered to be oil but is classified more as a liquid wax ester. The specialty of this oil is that its chemical composition closely replicates that of the human sebum that is secreted by the sebaceous gland of the human body. Because of this property, our skin readily accepts this oil, which works as an excellent carrier oil as the essential oil when diluted with jojoba oil allows it to be penetrated deep into the skin. 

Jojoba oil is rich in antibacterial and antifungal properties, preventing the growth of harmful bacteria while retaining moisture and promoting suppleness.

Read - 10 Benefits Of Using Jojoba Oil For Your Skin

• Olive Oil
  
  

Olive oil has immense therapeutic properties. It is used as a carrier oil majorly for exfoliation and cleansing purposes. This oil is also known for its collagen-boosting properties allowing the skin to regenerate, revive the radiance, and benefit as an anti-aging product.

Essential oils can be inhaled by vaporization, ingested, or applied on the skin or scalp. However, there are specific instructions and methods that one needs to know before use. These needs vary depending on the essential oil and the requirements. We’ll discuss them in detail in the next section.

1. How To Use Essential Oils for Skin 

Essential oil can be applied to the skin through topical applications. Before the application,  dilute 2-3 drops of essential oil with 1 tsp of carrier oil. After dilution, the oil can be massaged on the skin or be used as a spot treatment.

The essential oil can also be added to your bathing water. However, one needs to note that directly adding essential oil in the bathing water is not recommended as the oil does not dissolve in water and would remain afloat over the water in the form of a film. When the skin comes in contact with the oil, the whole strength of the essential oil will strike and expose the skin surface, causing adverse skin irritations.

To counter this, it is thus advised to use essential oil with the help of a dispersant, for example, adding the oil to few tablespoons of full cream milk would also work. Another formula that could be used is adding six drops of essential oil like Lavender to two tablespoons of the following mixture: Epsom salt, one part baking soda, and three parts of sea salt.

2. How To Use Essential Oils for Hair

A plethora of hair benefits is known for various essential oils. Right from boosting hair growth, preventing hair loss from maintaining shine, different essential oils have their specific advantage.

An essential oil can be applied to the hair along with a carrier oil. Simply take 2 or 3 drops of essential oil to 1 teaspoon of carrier oil and mix it well. Next, apply it on the scalp and massage it thoroughly. Leave this mixture overnight or rinse it away after a couple of hours.

You even make their hair spray with the help of purified or distilled water and coconut sugar. To begin with, heat the water for a few minutes, after turning off the heat source, add one tablespoon of coconut sugar and keep mixing until it dissolves. Next, after the mixture cools down, add about 25 drops of the essential oil you desire based on your needs and store it in a glass spray bottle.

The bottle should be shaken thoroughly before every application. Also, the shelf life of such hair spray is around 3-4 weeks.

3. How to Use Essential Oils For Aromatherapy 

It is widely recommended to use the essential oil through inhalation. Each oil provides unique benefits through aromatherapy. They help in relaxation and in uplifting the entire aura of the surroundings. To use these oils for their aromatic properties, you will need a diffuser.

The diffuser is an electric or battery-run device that aids in diffusing the essential oil in the surrounding atmosphere. Essential oils cannot be burnt directly as there would be a drastic change in the chemical composition of the oils rendering it harmful or useless. Diffusers generally use water or cool air with the help of inbuilt fans or reeds to disperse the essential oil molecules into the atmosphere.

Massages are also a fantastic means to reap the therapeutic benefits of the essential oil as it combines aromatherapy and reflexology or plain rubbing. About 20 to 30 drops of essential oil can be mixed with 2 ounces of advanced quality vegetable carrier oil and massaged all over the body. Those with sensitive skin could use ten drops of the essential oil for 2 ounces of the carrier oil.

Massages allow relaxation, improve circulation as well as tone the body considerably.

Best Essential Oils for Skin

Next, let’s find out which essential oil aids in combating which specific skin issues. 

1.    Essential oils for skin tightening

French Cypress essential oil is specifically known for its cleansing and toning effects. This oil aids in tightening the pores as well as controlling the sebum level of the skin

2.    Essential oils for oily skin

Ylang Ylang essential is known to balance and regulate oil production when applied topically. It prevents excessive oil production and, at the same time, soothes any irritation caused by oily skin.

3. Essential oils for dry skin

Lavender essential oil works wonders by moisturizing and retaining the hydration for those affected with chapped and dry skin. It can even be used to treat dry skin conditions like Eczema as it has antifungal properties and reduces inflammation. 

4. Essential oils for acne scars

Tea Tree Oil is rich in antibacterial properties that aid in soothing acne breakouts and diminish the scars left behind by past acne.

Best Essential Oils for Hair

Next is the list of essential oil to treat various hair related complications.

1. Essential oils for dandruff

Tea tree essential oil is a fungicidal oil which can eliminate dandruff and reduce the flaking considerably. It boosts the circulation and thereby aids in hair growth as well.

 2. Essential oils for hair loss     

Cedarwood essential oil has regenerating properties due to which it’s beneficial for stimulating hair growth. It allows new hair growth and naturally reduces hair loss. It also tightens the hair follicles and reduces the thinning of hair. 

3. Essential oils for hair growth

Citronella essential oil protects and nourishes the hair extensively. It cleanses the scalp removing dead skin, dirt, residues, and stimulates hair growth.

 4. Essential oils for dry hair

Rosemary essential oil moisturizes the scalp and reduces the dryness of the scalp. It even reduces dandruff and itching caused by dryness. We also recommend Eucalyptus essential oil and Ylang Ylang essential oil for nourishing dry hair.

Best Essential Oils For Sleep and Relaxation

Many of the essential oils have proven benefits of inducing sleep and providing relaxation; the following are three of such essential oils.

1. Bergamot essential oil

Bergamot oil has soothing properties and works against sleep disorders like insomnia. It collectively reduces lethargy and makes a person more energetic and lively.

2. Lemongrass essential oil

The aroma of this oil uplifts one’s mood instantaneously, relieving stress and anxiety. It induces a refreshed and relaxed atmosphere. 

3. Eucalyptus essential oil

Eucalyptus oil is known to soothe physical as well as mental discomfort. It eases a person’s mental exhaustion and boosts circulation to the brain. 

Apart from these oils, Lavender essential oil and Ylang Ylang oil are also well known for their sleep-inducing and relaxing effects.

Conclusion

We hope that our complete guide to the essential oils helped you understand all that you needed to know about them. It is also recommended to consult your health practitioner before inculcating any essential oil in your routine. You can book a free consultation with our Ayurvedic Beauty Consultant by following this link.

References -

1. Ayurveda and Aromatherapy
2. Do Essential Oils Really Work?
3. Essential Oils in Aromatherapy

What takes you to places? Your ‘will’, of course. But, what part of your body carries out the movement that your will mind commands? Yes, your wonderful feet. They make you mobile and agile. Just how gracefully they carry the weight of your entire body, is truly marvellous!

Despite the huge role that our feet play in our day to day lives, they get limited care and attention. Your feet are exposed to dirt, pollution and sun, all of which take a heavy toll on it along with the physical stress from daily activities. For this reason, your feet need special therapy, known as a pedicure.

The benefits of a good pedicure are not limited to the feet alone. 

Have you ever experienced a good feet massage that made you drift you into a peaceful slumber? Many ancient texts and stories, throw light on how steering different points on the feet can actually heal as well as alleviate pain from various regions of the body, promoting health and well-being as a whole. 

The Importance Of Pedicure

Some people consider pedicure to be a waste of time or a luxury indulgence. However, this mindset needs to evolve. It is essential to look after every part of the human body and our feet are no different.

Enhanced blood circulation, relaxation of the mind, relief from pain, release of endorphins (the happy hormones) are some of the benefits one gets through a pedicure. Also, many detrimental diseases associated with high blood pressure and mental fatigue can be avoided through regular pedicures.  

According to the Vedic scriptures, feet are ‘organs of action’. They make the initial assembly of foundation to support the bodily structures.

What Does Ayurveda Say About Pedicures?

Ayurveda, an ancient yet one of the most vastly acknowledged medical sciences also states diverse benefits of a pedicure. An Ayurvedic pedicure not only improves a person’s physical well-being but also improves the psycho-social aspect of one’s life.

You would be surprised to discover how intricate your feet are! They house 7000 nerve networks, 33 intricate joints, and 26 strong bones. Ayurveda states that the various points on our feet are connected to different organs and parts of our body. By applying pressure to those specific points on the feet and massaging it with oil, many Ayurvedic physicians can relieve patients from the corresponding ailments of those body parts.

To understand the correlation of the body parts to the feet you can go through the following analogy. Brain - big toe, Tip of your Big toe – pineal gland, the body of big toe – pituitary gland, the base of the big toe – thyroid. The neck of second and third toes – eyes, neck of third and fourth toes – ears. Cushion like padding at the base of all your toes – lungs, mid-section of sole – pancreas, heel- sciatic nerves (branching from the lower back to each of your hips and buttocks). 

Therefore, indirectly many health problems can be healed and prevented by triggering these corresponding reflex points. 

Ayurveda also claims a major role of pedicure in one's immune system. On applying oil on the soles of the feet, it travels into the skin through the superficial fascia and deep fascia and finally towards the end of the nerves and stimulates specific neuropeptides secretion. These have significant importance in the immunological responses of the human body.

Foot massage is an effortless yet efficient method of setting out the natural relaxation points on our body that too without ingestion of any kind of harmful drugs.

What Is A Pedicure?

We have understood the benefits pedicure could give us but what exactly is a pedicure and what does it include?

Pedicure is a kind of pleasure-based treatment that you could embrace yourself with. It basically includes soaking your feet in a warm tub for a couple of minutes followed by a foot-scrub to reveal the fresh skin beneath the dead skin cells and a holistic massage of the feet that would finally leave your skin feeling supple and fresh. 

Looking after the sole alone isn’t what pedicure is about, it also incorporates toenail and cuticle caring. Exfoliating the dried, dead skin, and conditioning your feet with a suitable moisturizer and crowning it with a marvelous nail polish of your choice is what pedicure is all about in a nutshell.

Ayurvedic Pedicure or Padabhyanga

In Ayurvedic terms, there is a slight variation with regards to a regular pedicure. Pedicure in Ayurveda doesn’t consider any inclusion of petrochemical-based products, acetone nor nail-polish. It is much more than looking after the cosmetic point of view. The Ayurvedic pedicure includes a feet massage that benefits the internal nervous system and the body as a whole.

It is more inclined towards natural, non-chemical-oriented products, as a result, there are a lot of takers for ayurvedic massages of the feet which include therapeutic aromatherapy as well as reflexology. 

After determining the dosha-type of the individual an essential oil is incorporated. In the end, it doesn’t work on the regular belief of one oil or one cream suits for all concepts. It is more customer-oriented and the whole procedure is fabricated based on the person or the client's requirements or suitability. 

3 Best Ayurvedic Products For A Relaxing Pedicure At Home

You can transform your entire Pedicure experience by choosing the right products. Using natural products with Ayurvedic ingredients will help you get the benefits.

1. Foot Scrub - The dirt and the dead skin accumulated on your feet needs to be scrubbed away during the pedicure. We recommend Kama Ayurveda Foot Scrub for this. It has Ground Apricots that work as fine granules for scrubbing. Not only this, the scrub also has ingredients like Chamomile that calm and soothe the damaged skin and purifying Basil that provides relief from foot soreness.
   
   
2. Body Oil - As discussed above, the foot massage is one the most important steps of an Ayurvedic pedicure. This step requires the use of a relaxing body oil to massage the pressure points. We recommend Kama Ayurveda Sugandhi Rejuvenating Body Treatment Oil for this.
   
   The ancient Ayurvedic text of Sahastrayogam recommends this oil for promoting a sense of well-being and relaxation through massage. It has relaxing ingredients like Jelly leaf that removes fatigue and alleviates muscle ache and Winter Cherry that eases stress, builds muscle and tones skin.
   
   
3. Foot Cream - The skin of our feet becomes dry and requires deep nourishing treatment during the pedicure. We recommend Kama Ayurveda Foot Cream for this. With 100% Organic Cold Pressed Sweet Almond and Coconut Oils, it helps relieve dryness, heal cracks and chapped skin. It is also blended with Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter and Kokum Butter that penetrate deep and help soften dry, rough heels and callous skin.

The following video shows how you can use these three products as a part of your foot care regime.

This is an easy 3 Step Foot Care routine that you can follow once a week. However, if you want to give yourself a complete salon-type pedicure experience, you will need some tools. Let’s talk about these pedicure tools in the next section.

7 Essential Pedicure Tools For A Pedicure At Home

When one goes through the whole pedicure process, it is required to know what exactly are the tools that need to be employed and how each tool functions. 

Also, do take efforts to clean your tools and wash them thoroughly before and after every use. The skin and nails are a breeding ground for many bacteria therefore it is of prime importance to keep the tools that groom them in a sanitized condition. Be careful to store them in a dry place so as to prevent rusting.

1. Nail Cutter

It is a tool that is a must in every individual’s personal grooming list. Its function is as simple as the name suggests- to cut or trim your nails. Extremely long nails could hurt you and also house a lot of dirt. But at the same time, cutting them extremely short and exposing the delicate nail bed is also not advisable as it could lead to infections. 

2. Cuticle Pusher

Cuticles can become dry or flaky quite easily hence they markedly need exceptional care. A wooden pusher is suitable for soft cuticles and a steel one for comparatively harder cuticles. The cuticle pusher has a very subtle role and needs not to be used aggressively. A gentle yet firm push is all that’s needed. Using the spoon end generally and the sharpened end just for the corners would work.

3. Cuticle Nipper

This tool is used after you are done working with the cuticle pusher. Its function is just to trim in case you have those uneven pieces of rebellious skin mostly present around your nail bed. Working in an upward shift you can raise the dead skin off the nail.

It is not recommended to cut off the entire cuticle as the cuticle protects the nail from any attack of bacteria. Use it only to trim the loose skin. After the pushing and nipping part of the cuticle is executed, make it a point to moisturize it thoroughly.

4. Nail Buffer

Need a little bit of gloss and shine on your dull nails? Rest your worries, the nail buffer does exactly that. It helps to smoothen and remove any dry ridges present on the nail, giving you a polished and shiny finish. Buff in one direction only and not in a haphazard manner. 

It could be backward or forward, stick to any one direction. Be cautious to not go overboard with the buffer as there is a tendency that its over-use could thin out the nails. Using it once a month in a gentle manner is advisable to prevent any untoward outcome and keeping your nails shiny.

Make it a point to use the finer side of the tip as it would work more efficiently in smoothening the nails. On completing do not skip the application of cuticle oil or even applying beeswax could work.

5. Nail File

A nail file is basically used to provide a subtle shape to your nails, giving it the natural ovular shape could be good or else you could even experiment giving it a shape that could be pointier or arch-like and less rounded according to your need and desire. 

Nail filer aids by fragmenting the nail very minutely and at the same time giving it the preferable shape. Many kinds of nail fliers could be found which include emery boards, metal files, ceramic, or also glass-coated ones. It is a widely preferred choice to use emery boards as they are comparatively gentler than the other options. 

To begin with, nail filing, hold the filer at a 45-degrees angle, and keep it parallel to the nail you want to file. First, begin with the sides of your nail and then graduate towards the center. Do not be very harsh and aggressive, be light, and apply less pressure. File it in one direction to get a polished finish.

6. Pumice Stone or Foot File

Our feet are so used to not getting regular exfoliation, care, or moisturization that many would find the skin, especially around the heels and toes to be thicker. That thick skin is none other than the build-up of dry and dead skin cells and callus over time.  

Pumice stone is basically used to get rid of those dead skin cells present on whichever part of your feet. Its benefit is best visible when the foot filing is done after your feet are soaked in soapy lathery warm water for a few minutes. Maybe up to ten would be better. After the skin gets softened, wet the stone and rub generously against the area that needs to be exfoliated. Doing this at least twice a week could keep cracked skin, especially around the heel at bay.

7. Toe Separator

Jumping right to its function, the toe separator helps to keep the toes apart from each other for easier and more comfortable application of nail polish or for grooming each of them. In this manner, they do not even come in each other’s way when either of them is being pampered with your care.

Apart from these tools, you also need a good foot scrub and a foot moisturizer. We’ll discuss them in detail in the next section.

How To Do A Pedicure At Home

Now as we know the most needed tools for a pedicure including its functions, performing your own pedicure at the comfort and luxury of your home itself would be quite possible and could say is even the need of the hour with the current on-going pandemic situation. 

To begin with, nothing beats the traditional natural methods of having a pedicure. With a nil disadvantage, it is most advisable to use natural products in your foot care journey. The following seven steps process could wind you up with the perfect pedicure you require.

1. Get Rid Of The Old Nail Paint

It is high time to let go of the dry chipped paint those nails have been carrying maybe even for months. For this dip a cotton ball or cotton pad into the nail paint remover. Place it over your nail for a couple of seconds and gently dislodge and wipe away the nail paint. Using chemical-free and harsh acetone-free remover would be the best shot for a smoother and healthier finish.

2. Soak And Relax

Nothing beats the relaxation felt while soaking your feet in that tub of warm fragrant water.

To make that perfect tub of water, firstly take a medium-sized tub or basin. Fill it with warm water, be careful to not burn yourself with overly hot water. Next, add a half cup of Epsom salt to the tub, juice of one whole lemon, a few drops of your shampoo followed by a few drops of your favorite essential oil for the perfect scent, and a few rose petals if available. You could even play soothing music of your choice and allow the ingredients to do their work by keeping your feet soaked in the water for about 20 minutes or so. 

These elements collectively help to get rid of any kind of inflammations, pain, and roughness and leaves you with softer skin.

3. Scrub It Away

Now comes the time to use the pumice stone and get rid of all the dead skin cells present at the bottom of your feet. Wet the pumice stone and rub around your feet, especially at the places where you feel the skin is thickened and calloused. Scrub and exfoliate it gently, do not be overly harsh. Stop when you feel the skin is becoming even, smooth and supple all around.

Next, take a generous amount of Kama Ayurveda Foot Scrub and rub it all over your feet to create lather. Scrub gently for about 5 minutes. concentrating on the toes, ankle and heels.

4. Massage and Moisturize

After completing these steps, pamper yourself with a gentle massage. For massaging your feet you can use a relaxing oil like Sugandhi Rejuvenating Body Treatment Oil. After that, we recommend using the Kama Ayurveda Foot Cream as it’s an effective feet moisturizer. It will not only enhance the complete process of moisturizing but also at the same time aid in healing any dry or cracked skin.

Take a generous amount, rub it within your palms and gently massage it all along your feet and between the toes, apply slight pressure, and continue massaging for about 5 minutes.

5. Trim and Shape Your Toenails

Now, It is time to put on the toe separator from your tool collection for all the further steps. 

To begin with, trim your nails according to your need with the help of a nail cutter. Always trim your nails on a timely basis, keeping the nails overly long would not only collect dirt and bacteria but also the pain encountered by an accidental chip-off is quite intolerable.

Next, use the nail buffer to scrub and grind the nail in order to bring back its lost shine and lustre. Finally, utilize the nail filer and give your nails the shape you desire.

6. Cuticle Care

Do not overlook this step, this one would help your nail to grow healthily and remain stronger. It would also keep your cuticles clean preventing the growth of any bacteria or infection on the nail. For that apply a moisturizer or cuticle softener like Vitamin E oil, Almond oil, or Jojoba oil over the cuticles and softly rub and massage each of them. You could use a cuticle pusher and gently push the cuticle. Also, use a cuticle nipper only to get rid of the dead loose skin in case present. 

(It is not suggested to mess around with the cuticles much as it serves an important role in the protection of your nails, stopping right after moisturizing the cuticle is also sufficient.)

7. Painting your toenails

Finally, to end the procedure, apply a base followed by your favorite nail paint color. Apply it evenly over the nails in a single stroke. You could put in a double layer just in case you want it darker and the coat to be present for a longer time. To finish it off seal the paint with a topcoat.

It is advisable to use chemical-free products as it would be beneficial in the long run by preventing drying and chipping-off of the nails.

Pedicure - Other Tips and Remedies

Here, let’s address some other common pedicure options that one needs to know to keep their feet healthy and soft throughout.

How To Relax Very Tired Feet?

After spending hours standing or the night followed after an on-the-feet throughout the day, anyone would long to relax and give their feet the attention and care it deserves.

For this, you could fill a tub with warm water, add a handful of Pine leaves and Rose petals followed by two teaspoons of Peppermint Essential Oil. Next, massage your feet gently with castor oil. You could gently press the pressure point that is present three finger space below at a hollow just above the bone where the first and second toe intersects. Do this for about four to five seconds. This pressure point would aid in your relaxation and also eliminate or reduce any kind of stress or anxiety. Next, soak your feet in the tub of water and relax.

In case you have small smooth pebbles or marbles, go ahead and add them in the water tub as well and roll your feet over them. They too would assist in comforting the aching feet. 

How To Take Care Of Cracked Feet?

Cracked feet particularly at the heels is a very common issue faced especially during the dry winters. To beat this problem, do the following procedure preferably before bed-time. First, soak your feet in warm water for a few minutes and scrub it with a pumice stone and pat it dry. Next, massage your feet gently with either Sesame or Sandalwood oil. We also recommend regular application of Kama Ayurveda Foot Cream to take care of cracked heels.

Then, use a double boiler to melt a candle, after it cools down, gently apply it on your heels and wait until it solidifies. Go to bed wearing a pair of cotton socks. After waking up, peel the layer of the wax. Stick to this remedy daily and you are bound to find results by the end of a week.

How To Take Care Of Chipped Nails?

Mostly, nails get chipped either when they have become brittle or too long. To avoid your nails from turning too long, use a nail cutter at regular intervals. Cutting them off not only strengthens the base but also avoids the pain that follows after a long nail gets chipped off. At times it even pulls the entire nail out and that excruciating pain can be felt even at the very imagination of such agony. 

To cure brittle nails, one could take half a glass of water, mix it with one teaspoon of gelatine and drink it regularly for two weeks. Or you could also apply warm coconut oil and massage the nail in order to strengthen and improve blood circulation.

Most importantly it is essential to maintain a healthy well-balanced diet that includes sufficient macro and micronutrient and most importantly Folic Acid, Zinc, Calcium, and Biotin as these are indispensable for the healthy growth of your nails.

To end it all, after knowing these facts and information it is important to note that the role that our feet’s play in daily life doesn’t vary greatly with gender, because of which there is no reason why a man should not or cannot be taking care of their feet or have a pedicure. A pedicure stands equally beneficial and essential for anyone and everyone irrespective of the gender or works one does, hence, it is time to bid adieu to that misleading notion.

So, go ahead whole-heartedly and provide the special care that your feet and nails rightfully deserve.

References:

1. Manicure and pedicure procedures
2. Pedicure Tools
3. Ayurvedic Pedicure

Pop, pop… pop them all. Is that your first instinct the moment you see those pimple bumps upon the face? Maybe your Mom’s instruction of ‘Do not squish them ever’ when you had the first one helps you resist the temptation of popping them away. Or perhaps, it’s the fear of marks or scars that makes you wonder if there was a way to get rid of pimples naturally.

Facial pimples are one of the most common skin problems. In India, there are at least 10 million people who suffer from pimples everywhere. So be assured, you’re not alone with your struggles. 

Despite pimples being such an ordinary appearance that almost everyone has it at least once in their lifetime, people tend to suffer from low self-esteem related issues due to these eruptions. Studies have stated that acne and pimples create dismissive self-esteem among patients of every age group. This is seen more among women and girls who are prone to severe acne.

However, losing hope and self-esteem should be the last thing on your plate because there are multiple ways through which these eruptions can be combated. Staying hydrated, resisting the temptation of touching your face, keeping your skin moisturized, washing your face are few of the simple yet effective ways to limit the number of break-outs that one gets. 

In this article, we’ll cover everything that you need to know about pimples and how to get rid of them naturally. Let’s get started with understanding this skin problem a little better. 

What Are Pimples?

Pimples are small blisters, pustules, or papule-like eruptions most commonly seen on the face, back, chest or shoulders. They are majorly characterized by inflammation, redness, and even pain at times. They could be pus-filled or water-filled. Some people tend to refer to them as zits or spots as well. Numerous pimples are known to be a symptom of a skin condition or disease called Acne Vulgaris or Acne in common terms.

It is stated that Acne Vulgaris is very common among adolescence and affects over 80% of teenagers. Also, 3% and 12% of men and women respectively are prone to developing pimples even after the age of 25 years.

Some of the most common causes of pimples are hormonal changes, genetic susceptibility, water intake, smoking, alcohol consumption, clogging of pores, comedogenic products, and dandruff. If you're curious which of these is a significant concern for you, refer to the section later in the article. 

But before, let’s answer the more important question -

How To Get Rid Of Pimples Naturally?

Having understood the different types of pimples and the triggers/causes associated with them must have got you wondering - Is there a way to get rid of them naturally? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. There are some severe acne issues that require medical treatment. However, you can still count on Ayurvedic remedies, clean diet, optimum water intake and a good lifestyle to aid you in the process of getting rid of pimples. For those who suffer from mild pimples or acne, these remedies work perfectly.

• Amla (Gooseberry) Juice and Amla Powder

Amla is known to be a natural blood purifier and is rich in vitamin C. It is considered to be a powerhouse of antioxidants and fights inflammation. 

Amla juice could be consumed as a detoxifying drink owing to its much-acclaimed remarkable properties of clearing the skin. To prepare Amla juice, cut around three to four amlas, add half a cup of water along with a pinch of salt, and blend it well with the help of a mixer or blender. This juice could be had once or twice a week.  

Amla powder along with water would make an amazing face pack. It could be left on the face for 20 minutes following which it needs to be washed well with plain water. It would reduce the pimples as well as lighten blemishes at the same time boost the collagen production.

• Neem

Neem has been used extensively for herbal preparations since ancient times. They possess antibacterial, antiseptic, antifungal properties. Mix neem powder with water and make a thick paste then apply it on the affected area or the places where the pimple or acne is present. Allow it to dry. After 20 minutes rinse it off with luke-warm water. This will help to even out your skin tone and reduce the size of the break-out.

Alternatively, you can also use Organic Cold-Pressed Neem Oil as a spot treatment for pimples. Studies have proven that applying Neem oil regularly on the face is an excellent long-term acne treatment. Neem Oil prevents future breakouts by eliminating acne-causing bacteria, tightening the pores, and evening out skin tone.

• Basil or Tulsi

Tulsi has been used as a medicinal herb for centuries. It is tremendously famous for its skin-nourishing as well as immunity-boosting benefits. Tulsi has antifungal properties, therefore, keeps acne formation at bay. To utilize this leaf in your skincare routine, grind a few tulsi leaves along with a couple of neem leaves, add 1 teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice and mix them all into a paste. Apply this on to the affected area. As soon as it dries off, rinse with plain water and pat dry. This pack will remove the dirt, impurities, unclog the pores as well as prevent and heal the acne breakouts.

To get the benefits of Neem and Tulsi for Acne, you can use Natural Face Cleansers that have both Neem and Tulsi along with Tea Tree Oil as its key ingredients. Kama Ayurveda’s Anti Acne Cleansing Foam is one such cleanser. 

• Watermelons
  
  

Watermelons are a great source of antioxidants. They aid in skin regeneration and help to repair damaged cells. It boosts the production of nitric oxide in the body and thereby cleanses the skin. So, go ahead and consume them, they are not only great in taste but also help in reducing the oil production thereby lessening acne breakouts. They could also be applied directly over the affected area and be left overnight for healing.

• Aloe Vera
  
  

Aloe vera is rich in antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. Aloe vera gel could be extracted and applied directly to the affected area or on the face over-all for around 10 minutes, after doing so wash your face thoroughly with plain water. Aloe vera helps to clean pore as well as diminishes the bacteria formation as it can rupture the bacterial cell wall. This also helps in the reduction of spot formation. 

• Cumin Coriander-Fennel tea
  
  

Cumin Coriander Fennel tea helps in cooling down the system and reducing the production of toxins. The three-ingredient tea is prepared by soaking 1/3rd teaspoon of each of the seeds in hot water. The concoction is then strained to obtain this detoxifying drink. You can consume it three times a day to reap the maximum benefits.

• Papaya

Did you know that Papaya has rejuvenating properties? This fruit is not only good for your stomach but is also well known to nourish the skin. Applying Papaya pulp on the face helps in removing dead skin cells, and keeps the skin hydrated and moisturized. It also contains anti-inflammatory enzymes that help in soothing acne. The protein diffusing papain helps in exfoliating the skin. All of these characteristics of the papaya works against pimple formation. 

A fine paste of raw papaya could be applied on the face for about half an hour, following which you can rinse it off with mildly warm water and pat the face dry. This pack will also help in reducing the blemishes caused by acne or pimples.

• The Ultimate Ayurvedic Herbal Mixture
  
  

Grind Fennel, Basil, Turmeric, Coriander seeds, Amla, and Coriander seeds thoroughly and make a powdered mixture. The Ayurvedic ingredients have powerful anti-inflammatory properties and are rich in antioxidants. You can mix half a teaspoon of these ingredients in luke-warm water to create the ultimate Ayurvedic drink to get rid of pimples and consume it 15 minutes before lunch and dinner.

For an external application of herbal mixture, you can add sandalwood paste along with rose water and turmeric to these ingredients. This could be applied for 30 minutes in the affected area. Later, rinse it away with cold water.

We also recommend Kama Ayurveda’s Nimrah Anti-Acne Face Pack to heal pimples, blackheads, pimple scars and skin inflammation. With powerful Ayurvedic ingredients like Vetiver, Ashwagandha, Red Sandalwood, Coriander, Lodhra and Liquorice, this face pack works as a treatment for acne and pimples.

• Honey
  
  

Honey is rich in antioxidants and also contains anti-microbial properties. Applying pure honey directly on the pimple or scars for about 15-20 minutes and washing it off is also sufficient for clearing the acne. This could be utilized regularly. Honey enhances the healing properties of the skin and at the same time reduces and keeps away bacterial formation. It also moisturizes the skin and keeps it looking replenished.

• Turmeric With Rose Water
  
  

Turmeric has the ability to cleanse toxins from the pore. It contains antifungal and antibacterial properties because of which it prevents bacterial breakouts. Turmeric along with Rose Water could be applied evenly on the face or just on the affected area. After it dries out completely, rinse the face with water and pat dry. Instead of Rosewater, honey could also be used if one faces dry skin-related issues.

What Causes Pimples? - Common Triggers and Risk Factors

Some people are more prone to pimples than others. Understanding what causes pimples is useful in managing them as some of these triggers are easy to avoid. With an awareness of these triggers and risk factors, we can modify our lifestyle and adopt some healthy habits to combat pimples. 

• Hormonal Changes

You might have heard many times about the correlation of hormones with these unwanted eruptions. But, to understand this better you need to know what is sebum. 

Sebum is an oily, sticky, fatty substance that is secreted by the sebaceous glands. Sebum helps in sealing moisture and prevents dryness; however excess sebum production makes the skin oily and clogs the pores. These glands are usually associated with hair follicles and found in every part of the human body except on the palms, soles of feet, and lips.

The secretion of sebum is controlled by the androgen hormone, specifically the male sex hormones such as testosterone. With the onset of puberty, androgens inundate the human body causing a rise in the level of hormones secreting sebum. Because of which many individuals have acne as soon as they hit puberty. These hormones get regulated and steadied post-puberty in males, however, in females it doesn’t since the monthly menstrual cycles, pregnancy and even menopause causes variation in the secretion of these hormones leading many to face pimple-related issues through and through.

• Genetic Susceptibility
  
  

Many studies claim that the genes you carry and your family line do play a role in acne issues. In case it runs in your family and you have been unlucky since your genes did not mutate then there are high chances for you to face acne as well. 

On the other hand, certain gene mutations also could be a trigger for frequent pimple eruptions, despite not having a familial history. Acne is also a customary symptom for those having PCOS (Polycystic ovarian syndrome) and this disease is known to cluster in families. Also, the risk of having acne is even more intense in case both your parents had it as compared to one of them having it.

• Water Intake

Hydrating your body at all times has miscellaneous advantages, reduction in the number of pimples is one of them. When a person suffers from excessively dry skin as a consequence of dehydration, there could be a spurt in the secretion of oil production, causing pimples to formulate. 

Drinking an adequate quantity of water prevents this as well as flushes out toxins and harmful bacteria out of the body and skin. It allows the skin to remain moisturized and effectuates a radiant glow. So, do not take this simple yet mighty liquid for granted go ahead, and have at least 8 glasses or two liters of water daily. If you struggle to maintain your water intake when the temperature drops, here’s a tip that will help you. 

• Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
  
  

A specific kind of ‘non-inflammatory acne’ (also known as blocked pores and blackheads) is a result of smoking. Did you know that the skin cell turnover (regeneration of skin cells) increases with exposure to nicotine and other chemicals? This in turn constricts the blood vessels, reduces the supply of oxygen to the skin and kindles oxidation reaction, thereby altering the quantity of sebum production of the skin. 

Alcohol, on the other hand, does not directly cause acne or pimple break-outs. However, alcohol causes a spike in the blood sugar level which sets forth hormonal domino effect causing a spurt in the level of androgens which in turn projects the acne. 

The effect that alcohol has on the liver is quite known, if the function of the liver is hampered, its ability to flush out toxins from the body will diminish. The only way for those toxins to vent out would be through other channels, one of them being the skin and this in turn would wreck the skin causing pimple eruptions.

• Clogged Pores

Just like we keep rejuvenating ourselves through various means, even our skin has to shed those dead skin cells. However, many times these dead skin cells render trapped, thereby causing a build-up and blockage of the pores (hair follicles) on the skin. These pores have paramount importance as it releases oil and sweat. With clogged pores, this function gets obstructed causing the formation of blackheads, pimples, zits, etc . Steaming your face can help in clearing these clogged pores.

• Comedogenic Products
  
  

Comedogenic products are those products that contain ingredients that could pilot a closure or blockage of your pores. The implications of blocked pores have been mentioned in detail above. Vast variety of make-up products, moisturizers are comedogenic which could cause acne formation, blackheads, whiteheads, etc.

• Dandruff
  
  

Dandruff could lead to pimples on the scalp and forehead as well. Dandruff is caused by a skin fungal called Malassezia globosa. These fungi disrupt the functioning and breaking down of the sebum. They also leave back oleic acid and people who are sensitive to this acid suffer from acne breakouts on their forehead.

Other than these few other factors that could provoke acne breakouts and pimples are stress, climatic changes, poor dietary habits, not maintaining appropriate facial hygiene.

It is possible to overcome frequent pimple eruptions by following a healthy lifestyle and a nutritive diet. In case they still appear the best way to fight them off and prevent them is using natural remedies as they would not have any adverse side-effects either.

What Are The Different Types Of Pimples?

Not all pimples are the same. We’ve discussed the various causes of pimples in the previous section. The type of pimple you get mostly varies with the trigger. Here are some of the most common types of pimples.

• Whiteheads

As the name suggests, the tiny bumps or comedones that one would find on the face with a whitish color surface are called whiteheads. Usually, the skin layer above the whiteheads remains closed. Clogged pores and excess oil secretion are the main reasons for their appearance. They are majorly visible on the T-zone area that is the nose, forehead, and chin.

• Blackheads
  
  

Again, the name gives away its identity. These are similar to whiteheads in a way, except that the skin surface above it is opened. They are unhidden comedones. It is a common belief that the black hue is due to the dirt being trapped, on the contrary, the dark color is caused by the oxidation of oil and melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives skin its color. Blackheads are also caused by an increase in the production of sebum and clogged pores.

• Papules

When an area of the skin’s tissue seems to be elevated (less than 1cm) it is said to be a papule. It could have a shape that could be flat or dome-like. They are slightly painful and appear swollen as well as reddish in color. Papules could appear singly or crowded in one area, forming a rash type of appearance. These may or may not have distinctive boundaries.

• Pustules
  
  

Pustules are what many of us consider as a typical pimple with a whitish cap. They aren’t to be confused with whiteheads. The white bump is caused by the body’s innate reaction to fighting infection with the help of white blood cells. Pustules are pus-filled; it could be whitish or yellow which contains the white blood cells and bacteria. They would also appear as swollen with a reddish boundary. They would seem tender to touch.

• Cysts
  
  

These could arise anywhere on the body. They are pocket filled or sac-like in appearance and feel more like a hard bump. Clogged pores, oily skin combined with an infection gives rise to a cyst. Cysts are majorly benign but they could be malignant as well depending on its location. There are also various types of cysts like a sebaceous cyst, epidermoid cyst to name a few. They are formed deep within your skin and would be filled with pus. These take time to heal and, in most cases, leave a scar behind. 

• Nodules
  
  

These are mostly skin-toned but could also be reddish when the skin turns inflamed. They are very painful to touch. It needs in-depth, concentrated medications as it’s severe and difficult to heal. Nodules are even harder to touch than cysts and are not pus-filled. They prolong for weeks together or maybe even months because of which the contents within begin to harden and also get deeper over time.

Whenever the pimple isn’t of the severe form, they can be treated easily by natural remedies but in case of painful, prolonged occurrence it is advisable to seek professional and medical help from a medical practitioner or dermatologist.

Pimple Acne Face Map

We’ve talked a lot about pimples and by now you must be feeling equipped with some useful tips to get rid of pimples naturally. 

In this section, we’ll further enhance your knowledge about pimples by talking about what pimples in the different areas of your face mean. Yes, you heard that right! The spot at which a pimple appears also speaks a lot about what caused it in the first place. Let’s start uncovering the mystery behind these pimples. 

• Hairline Pimples

Pimples along the hairline could be caused by various reasons. The major one could be due to the possibility of product build-up near the hairline area. The product could be shampoos, hair sprays, mousse, oils, gels. Also, pomades which are thick and mineral oil-based hair products could be a reason for the same. This ingredient holds the sebum in the hair follicles from exiting thereby giving rise to pimple formation.

We recommend natural shampoos that are free from chemicals that trigger pimples. 

• Cheek Pimples

It is not surprising to know that our mobile screens could conceal various bacteria for example the E Coli bacteria. And the moment we hold the mobile screen close to our face we are unintendedly spreading the bacteria onto our skin. The facial skin is more delicate and easily allows the bacteria to spread, thereby giving rise to pimple formations. It's recommended to regularly disinfect your mobile phones. 

Any article or item pressed against your cheek which has an inhouse of bacteria could give rise to pimple breakouts. Yes, there’s your reason to change your bedsheets and pillow covers frequently. 

We also recommend washing your face regularly with a natural cleanser meant for acne-prone skin.

• Jawline Pimples
  
  

Usage of comedogenic cosmetic products, sports equipment like a chin strap, or anything of a similar kind which encloses and traps heat as well as sweat could be a reason for jawline pimple breakouts. Even musical instruments like a violin that frequently come in contact with the jawline could also be considered as a reason.

The presence of pimples on the cheek as well as the jawline could indicate an imbalanced hormonal level, this could also be a result of poor dietary habits.

• Nose Pimples
  
  

Usually, the acne found on the nose isn’t inflamed and is majorly small in size also. It's common for people to find blackheads in the nasal area. The main reason for it could be excessively oily skin. The sebaceous gland is higher in number on the nose as compared to the other parts of the body. The pores on the nose are more prone to dilate in case you keep fidgeting with those small bumps, it would thereby accumulate more dirt and oil.

• Chin Pimples

A very common cause of pimple on the chin area is ingrown hair. This usually crops up when the hair grows back into the skin. It gives rise to redness as well as inflammation. This is more common in males as compared to females; however, it could occur to anyone. These kinds of pimples would be itchy and may also develop into a pustule.

• Pimples Between the eyebrows

Going to the parlor to get rid of that unibrow could be a major reason for getting pimples between the eyebrows. In order to get rid of the hair, by threading or waxing, the hair is pulled right out of the root. Later-on when the hair regrows there are chances that the hair doesn’t come out at the surface and remains ingrown. This ingrowth results in pimples.

How to Get Rid of Pimples Overnight?

Before we address the ‘how’, the important question is - Can you get rid of pimples overnight? Well, as much as we wish for this, there is no way to remove pimples overnight for sure. However, we’ve talked about the two ways that are effective for some people. 

• Toothpaste
  
  

Toothpaste contains ingredients that help the pimple to dry out, heal and fall away. Hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and alcohol help to dry out the little bumps, because of which applying a tiny amount of it on the pimple before you go to sleep could help you to get rid of it. Also, the menthol present in the toothpaste allows the redness and inflammation to subside. 

However, at the same time, it is important to beware that applying toothpaste on the skin would also cause irritation to the skin surface. After all, the real function of the toothpaste is to cleanse your oral cavity and it would be better if we allowed it to remain restricted to that utility only.

• Tea Tree oil
  
  

It is stated that tea-tree oil contains anti-microbial as well as anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe vera gel along with a few drops of tea tree oil could be applied to the pimple or acne before going to bed. In the morning rinse it out with warm water. 

Read - How To Use Tea Tree Oil For Acne?

Research states that it could help in diminishing the acne but it is not a cure-all. Therefore, neither this method nor any other method could help in diminishing the pimple overnight even if anyone claims the same. There are no supporting research pieces of evidence up-to-date to give proof to such claims.

How to Get Rid of Pimples Fast?

Lastly, we’ll mention a few other hacks to get rid of pimples fast. Note that we only recommend natural and safe methods to get rid of pimples. These quick hacks might work once or twice in the time of crisis. However, they are not good for the skin. We recommend that you remain patient with your body and your skin. Embrace yourself, with or without pimples. 

But if you need to get rid of pimples for an important event, you can try these methods.

• Aspirin

Aspirin is commonly known as a pain reliever, and it contains acetylsalicylic acid. Salicylic acid is known to have the property of drying the skin which could help get rid of excess oil formation as well as dead skin cells. This acid also helps in diminishing the blemishes. It isn’t recommended to use aspirin to treat and deal with acne or pimples, but in case you still choose to use it; crush a few of the aspirin tablets with one tablespoon of warm water. Mix it into a thick paste and apply it on the affected area. Leave it on for 10 minutes to 15 minutes and rinse it thoroughly.

• Ice or Heat
  
  

First, apply warm water or warm compress over the zit; this would aid in cleaning the pores and removing the debris trapped within. Afterward, apply the heat for 5 to 10 minutes and follow it with the application of ice for a minute or so. This could be repeated daily until the breakout clears away. It is important to remain cautious and not use excessively hot compression as it could burn the skin and extensively cold application could cause frost-bites. Again, this method is also not suggested as there are chances that you could damage your skin in the process of getting a quick fix.

FAQ about pimples

1. How to get rid of pimples for men?

Even men could use the same methods to get rid of pimples as stated in the “How to get rid of pimples naturally” section mentioned above. 

2. How to get rid of small pimples on the face?

Finding a pimple on the face would surely be dreadful, however using natural remedies consistently as stated before it is possible to get rid of pimples even from the face.

3. How to get rid of pimples in 5 minutes?

To put it down bluntly, no research to date states such a remedy. So, it is impossible to get rid of pimples in 5 minutes. There are ways to reduce the redness or inflammation quickly but getting rid of the whole pimple so swiftly is impractical.

4. How to get rid of pus-filled pimples?

No matter how much you may feel tempted, always resist the urge to break those pus-filled pimples. It’s better to use natural remedies and allow it to heal on its own.

5. How To Get Rid Of Pimples On The Nose?

Applying warm compression could be utilized to get rid of the pimples found on the nose. This could be done 3 times per day for almost 15-20 minutes. If not any other remedy stated in this article could also be beneficial.

References:

1. How Acne Bumps Cause The Blues - Acne and Self Esteem 
2. Are Smoker Mores Likely To Suffer From Acne
3. Acne and Hormones
4. Is Acne Genetic?

Summer brings with it the promise of fun-filled beach days and sun-kissed memories. But as we soak up the sun, the unwelcome souvenir of a tan often lingers. Don't worry, we've done the hard work for you, uncovering the best-kept sun tan removal secrets to help you.

From natural home remedies to DIY masks, we have all the tips you need to remove tan from face and hands. Get ready to discover the art of tan removal and step into the sun with confidence!

What Causes Tanning?

Tanning is caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which triggers the production of melanin in the skin. Melanin darkens the skin as a protective response to UV rays, resulting in a tan. (1)

Melanin shields by absorbing and scattering UV rays, lessening their harm to deeper skin layers. However, tanning offers only minimal protection against UV radiation.Long exposure to the sun can lead to sun burns. (2)

What experts say -

“Excessive sun exposure can lead to skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. That's why it's essential to practice responsible sun exposure, always wear sunscreen, protective clothing, and seek shade when the sun is at its strongest.” - Dr Aruna Purohit

How To Remove Tan From Face?

Some people may consider opting for chemical treatments like bleaching and peels to get rid of tan instantly. But while these treatments may promise quick tan removal, they often come with long-term risks and harm to the skin. So instead, we recommend the safer and more effective path of natural home remedies. 

In this section, let’s explore gentle and nourishing solutions for face tan removal.

Lemon Juice and Honey

Lemon juice is a powerful tan removal agent, thanks to its ascorbic, glycolic, and alpha-hydroxy acids that have a natural bleaching effect. Abundant in Vitamin C, it quickly helps in removing tan.

To make a tan removal mixture, squeeze fresh lemon juice and add some honey (a natural humectant) to it. Apply the mixture on your skin and let it stay for 15-30 minutes before washing off with a mild cleanser. If you have oily skin, avoid leaving the honey on your skin for too long.

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is a fantastic natural remedy for face tan removal. Renowned for its soothing properties, it reduces inflammation and redness caused by sun exposure while promoting skin healing. (5)

To use aloevera gel for tan removal, apply a generous amount to the tanned areas on your face, leaving it on for 20-30 minutes. Afterward, rinse it off with cool water. Regular application will lighten tan and keep your skin hydrated and nourished.

Tomato

Tomatoes are excellent for tackling face tanning, thanks to their antioxidant content, particularly lycopene, which neutralizes UV-induced free radicals. Additionally, tomatoes provide skin-repairing vitamin C and natural acids that exfoliate, reducing tan lines and promoting an even skin tone.

After a day under the sun, grab a ripe tomato and cut it into slices or blend it into a pulp. Apply the slices or pulp directly to the tanned areas on your face, leaving it on for 15-20 minutes. Then, rinse with water and gently pat dry.

Multani Mitti For Tan Removal

Multani Mitti, also known as Fuller's Earth, is a time-tested and natural solution to remove tan from your face. This magical clay gently exfoliates, removing dead skin cells and dirt while cooling and soothing sun-exposed skin. 

Add Rose Water to Multani Mitti and make a smooth paste. You can use chilled rose water for a more soothing effect. Apply a layer of the paste on the affected areas and let it dry. Wash off with water or a mild cleanser.
You can also use Kama Ayurveda’s Suvarna Haldi Chandan Brightening Face Pack has Multani Mitti combined with other skin brightening Ayurvedic ingredients such as Sandalwood and Turmeric.

Also read - 20 Best Tan Removal Face Packs To Remove Sun Tan

Papaya

Papaya is a skin superhero when it comes to tanning! Packed with natural enzymes like papain and AHAs, it gently exfoliates, removing tan and leaving your complexion brighter. 

Its antioxidants combat UV damage, while its hydrating properties nourish the skin. Simply apply papaya pulp directly to tanned areas for 15-20 minutes, and watch the magic unfold as it effectively removes tan and revitalizes your skin.

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk is a treasure trove of skincare benefits, enriched with cytokinins – potent plant hormones with anti-aging properties. These miraculous compounds aid in repairing sun-damaged skin and fading tan lines. Moreover, Coconut milk's anti-inflammatory prowess comes to the rescue, soothing sunburned and irritated skin after prolonged sun exposure.

To harness the wonders of coconut milk for tan removal, simply apply fresh coconut milk directly to the tanned areas of your skin, allowing it to work its magic for 20-30 minutes. Rinse off with water afterward.

You can also use de-tanning treatments with coconut milk as the base. Kama Ayurveda’s Jwalini Retexturising Skin Treatment Oil is one such treatment suitable for face and body.

How To Remove Tan From Hands?

Here are some of the most effective ways to remove tan from hands - the potent combination of yogurt and turmeric, the exfoliating benefits of gram flour and turmeric, the soothing properties of potatoes, the nourishing effects of almonds, or the glow-enhancing milk and saffron remedy.

Let’s discuss these remedies in detail - 

Yogurt and Turmeric

Yogurt and turmeric form a powerful combination for tan removal and skin brightening. Yogurt contains lactic acid, which gently exfoliates the skin, removing dead cells and tan. On the other hand, Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help repair sun damage and promote a more even skin tone. (4)

Create a paste by mixing a tablespoon of Yogurt with a pinch of Turmeric powder. Apply the paste on the tanned areas of your skin and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Then, rinse it off with water, gently massaging the skin to exfoliate.

Gram Flour and Turmeric

Gram flour (also known as chickpea flour) and Turmeric are a potent combination for tan removal from the hands. Gram flour acts as a gentle exfoliant, while turmeric has anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening properties.

Create a thin paste by mixing 1 tsp of Turmeric with a cup of Gram Flour and some water or Milk. Apply the paste to your hands, targeting the tanned areas. Allow it to dry for 15-20 minutes before gently scrubbing it off with water, using circular motions to exfoliate the skin. Finally, rinse your face with cool water and pat it dry.

What experts say - 

“Home remedies for tan removal offer a safe and cost-effective approach. Ingredients like Yogurt, Turmeric, and Cucumber have skin-brightening properties that gently fade tan." - Dr Gopan G

Potato

Potatoes help with tan removal due to their enzymes, including catecholase, which has mild bleaching effects, and vitamin C, which combats sun damage. Their high water content moisturizes the skin, and their cooling effect soothes sun-exposed skin, reducing redness and inflammation. 

Start by washing a fresh potato thoroughly. Slice it or grate it to extract the juice. Rub the potato slices or apply the juice directly to the tanned areas on your hands. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Afterward, rinse it off with water and gently pat your hands dry.

Almonds

Almonds are a rich source of Vitamin E which nourish the skin and heal it from any damage from the sun. Almonds also have bleaching properties that help in removing tan.

Create a paste of Almond by grinding it with Rose Water. Use it as a tan removal scrub on the affected areas. You may squeeze some Lemon into the paste prepared by grinding almonds with rose water to increase its effectiveness in removing tan. 

Milk and Saffron

Saffron (Kesar) is a traditional beauty ingredient found in Indian households. Using Saffron is a natural way to get glowing skin. It is also known to improve skin texture, treat ailments like pigmentation, dark circles, pimples, and acne, and lighten darkened skin.

Simply soak a few strands of saffron in milk for some time. Apply the milk on affected areas. To provide better moisturization to the skin, Saffron can be soaked in cream instead of milk.

Ayurvedic De Tanning Oil

Described as a natural skin illuminator in Ayurveda, Nalpamaradi Thailam is a miracle oil that lightens the complexion and removes tan without causing any harm to the skin. It has the power of potent turmeric to remove pigmentation, even out skin tone, and erase stubborn tan marks. 

Post cleaning your face and body, pour some oil on your palm. Start with gently massaging your face in a circular motion until fully absorbed. Then, gently massage the oil all over your body in brisk upward and downward strokes until fully absorbed.

How To Remove Tan From Feet?

From the soothing combination of Oatmeal and Buttermilk to the zesty exfoliating scrub of Lemon and Sugar, and the gentle yet powerful effect of Masoor dal, these remedies will leave your feet bright and beautiful.

Oatmeal and Buttermilk

Indulge your feet in the soothing combination of oatmeal and buttermilk to bid farewell to unwanted tan. Oatmeal acts as a gentle exfoliant, sloughing off dead skin cells and tan, while buttermilk's lactic acid content helps lighten the skin, reducing the appearance of tan. 

Soak 2 teaspoons of Oats in half a cup of water for about five minutes. Add 2-3 teaspoons of fresh, plain Buttermilk to it and mix well. You can add Honey as well to make the pack more moisturizing. Mix these ingredients well to form a paste and then apply it to the areas affected by tanning. 

Oatmeal is also a key ingredient of the traditional Ayurvedic recipe for Ubtan. You can also use Kama Ayurveda’s Ubtan (a powdered mix of Ayurvedic herbs and natural ingredients) as a soap-free natural cleanser to remove tan from feet and other parts of body.

Cucumber and Lemon

When blended together, Cucumber and Lemon form a potent tan removal remedy that calms and rejuvenates sun-exposed skin. Cucumber's hydrating properties soothe the skin, while Lemon's natural bleaching abilities work to fade tan and restore an even skin tone. (3)

Apply the mixture all over your feet, including the tanned areas, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Afterward, rinse off with water and gently pat your feet dry to reveal tan-free and revitalized skin.

What experts say - 

“Lemon's citric acid not only acts as a natural bleaching agent but also helps in breaking down melanin pigments, making it an effective remedy for tan removal.” - Dr Kanchan Kachroo

Lemon And Sugar

The zesty exfoliating scrub of Lemon and Sugar serves as a powerful tan removal treatment. Lemon's citric acid acts as a natural bleaching agent, breaking down stubborn tan lines, while Sugar's fine granules gently slough off dead skin cells, revealing radiant and tan-free feet.

Prepare a grainy paste by mixing lemon juice and sugar, massage it onto your feet, especially the tan lines, and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Gently scrub off the mixture using circular motions, rinse your feet with water, and pat dry to unveil tan-free and radiant feet.

Masoor Dal

Unveil the secret tan eraser hidden in masoor dal. Ground to a powder, this ancient remedy becomes an excellent tan removal pack for your feet. The granular texture of masoor dal exfoliates the skin, buffing away tan and dullness.

Grind masoor dal into a fine powder and mix it with water or milk to create a paste. You can also add honey for better moisturisation. Apply the paste to your feet, focusing on the tanned areas, and let it dry for 20-25 minutes. Gently scrub off the paste with water, massaging in circular motions to exfoliate the skin. Rinse off to reveal brighter skin.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Say hello to apple cider vinegar (ACV), your secret weapon against tanning! ACV's acetic acid works wonders by gently exfoliating away tan lines and dead skin cells, while also balancing your skin's pH and reducing redness. Plus, it's a pro at promoting skin rejuvenation and brightening your complexion. 

Mix equal parts of Apple Cider Vinegar and water, and gently apply it to the tanned areas on your feet using a soft cotton ball. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off with water and patting your feet dry to achieve tan-free and revitalized feet.

FAQs on Sun Tan Removal At Home

How to remove tan from the body? 

To remove tan from your body, you can try natural remedies like yogurt and turmeric, lemon and sugar scrub, or aloe vera gel. These home remedies can gently exfoliate and brighten the skin, reducing tan lines over time. You may also consider using Ayurvedic de-tanning oil.

How to remove forehead tan? 

To tackle forehead tan, apply Aloe vera gel or a mixture of  Cucumber and Lemon juice to the affected area. These remedies soothe the skin, lighten pigmentation, and promote an even skin tone. Sunscreen application is crucial to prevent further tanning on the forehead.

What is a tan? 

A tan is a darkening of the skin caused by exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. When the skin is exposed to UV rays, it produces more melanin to protect itself, resulting in a darker skin tone. Tans are often seen as a sign of sun exposure, but it's essential to protect your skin from excessive sun damage to prevent health risks.

Why do I tan so easily? 

Some people tan more easily due to their skin's melanin levels. Melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color, protects the skin from UV damage. Higher melanin levels lead to darker skin and an easier tanning response to sun exposure.

Is tanning permanent? 

No, tanning is not permanent. As the top layer of tanned skin naturally sheds, the tan will gradually fade over time. With proper care and protection from the sun, you can encourage quicker tan fading.

How to protect skin from sun tan? 

To protect your skin from sun tan, follow these tips:

1. Wear sunscreen with SPF 21 or higher, and reapply every two hours.
2. Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm).
3. Wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
4. Avoid tanning beds, as they can cause skin damage.

How to remove tan from face immediately? 

For an immediate tan removal solution, try a Lemon and Sugar scrub. Mix Lemon juice and Sugar to create a grainy paste, and gently massage it on your face. This will exfoliate and brighten your skin, giving an instant glow.

How to remove tan instantly? 

While tanning removal takes time, applying Aloe Vera gel or Cucumber slices can provide instant relief by soothing sunburned skin and reducing redness.

How to remove tan overnight? 

Tan removal typically requires consistent efforts, but you can try applying a face mask of yogurt and turmeric before bedtime. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes and rinse off gently. Although you may not achieve complete tan removal overnight, your skin will feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

How to remove tan naturally?

Ancient Ayurveda texts claim Turmeric, Saffron, Sugar, and nut-based oils to be excellent healers of skin tanning. In this article, we’ve talked about simple tan removal home remedies that you can use to remove tan from your body.

How long does it take to remove tan?

The time it takes to remove tan varies based on the tan's intensity, skin type, and the methods used. It can take a few weeks to several months with consistent use of tan removal remedies and proper sun protection. Patience and a dedicated skincare routine are essential for achieving a tan-free complexion over time.

References -

1. https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/tanning/risks-tanning

2. https://medlineplus.gov/tanning.html

3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23098877

4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17569219 - 

5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2763764/

Since times immemorial, people have experimented with the potent herbs and natural ingredients around them and tried to infuse their goodness into one powerful potion. 

Ayurveda too, has one such recipe that’s passed over generations as a beauty secret. 

Described as ‘Miraculous Elixir’; it’s said that massaging your face with it at night will make your face ‘glow like gold.

This beauty potion is none other than Kumkumadi Tailam. 

It is considered Ayurveda’s invaluable gift to mankind for its uncanny ability to eradicate skin-related issues and bring out the skin’s natural glow. The name Kumkumadi comes from one of its key ingredients - red-gold Saffron, which is known as Kumkuma in Sanskrit.

In this article, we’ll look at the major benefits of Kumkumadi Facial Oil, its ingredients, how to apply it, and answer the major questions around its uses. First, let’s get down to the basics.

What is Kumkumadi Oil? (And Its Top Benefits)

Made entirely from natural herbs and oils, Kumkumadi Oil (also called Kumkumadi Tailam) is an Ayurvedic facial oil. 

It provides cosmetic as well as therapeutic benefits for the skin without causing any damage. Besides nourishing the skin, it also works as a cleanser, toner, and moisturizer.

The most valuable Kumkumadi Oil benefits are:

1. Working as a natural skin illuminator by lightening the skin tone and improving skin texture,
2. Repairing hyperpigmentation as well as signs of aging,
3. Getting rid of skin discoloration,
4. Treating blemishes and scars,
5. Revitalises​ skin’s youthful brightness
6. Rejuvenates skin dullness
7. Suitable for all skin types
8. Corrects dark spots
9. Evens skin tone
10. Enhances skin defenses against aging stressors

But how is this oil capable of offering so many benefits?

Well, the secret lies in the ingredients used to prepare it. There are many powerful, natural and Ayurvedic Kumkumadi oil ingredients that provide unique benefits for our skin. 

Most of the plants in the formula are classified under the {varnya gana}, a category of herbs in the Ayurvedic pharmacopeia praised to illuminate and rejuvenate skin.​ 

• Lotus: Calms skin by soothing inflammation. 
• Saffron: Evens skin tone and natural skin illuminator
• Indian Madder: Defends the skin from oxidative stressors.

We’ll look at those ingredients in the later section of the article. 

One effective Kumkumadi Tailam Facial Oil is Kama Ayurveda’s Kumkumadi Miraculous Beauty Fluid Night Serum. It is prescribed in Ayurveda for glowing complexion and even skin tone, among many other Kumkumadi Tailam uses and benefits. 

How to Use Kumkumadi Oil: Three Simple Steps

Below are three steps to use Kumkumadi oil in the form of our Kumkumadi Oil-based night serum. Follow this regime to brighten and treat dull, pigmented, damaged and aging skin.

1.Pre-Oiling

Begin with cleansing your face as usual at night. After cleansing, dampen your skin with Pure Rose/Mogra/Lavender/Vetiver water. 

2.Facial Oiling

Take (2-3 drops) of Kumkumadi Night Serum on your palm, apply over the face with fingertips and gently massage onto the skin until fully absorbed.

3.Post-Oiling

Allow the Kumkumadi Night Serum to work overnight for the best results. Wash it next morning with a mild natural cleanser.

Here are 3 some other ways to use Kumkumadi Oil in your skincare ritual:

1. LAYER: Unveil targeted beauty by applying 2-3 drops before moisturizing at night. 
2. BLEND: Mix 1-2 drops with your moisturizer for nourishment and a radiant glow in your palms. 
3. CURE: Indulge in a mask twice a week by taking 4-5 drops drops for your face and then washing it off.

How is Kumkumadi Tailam Made? - Top Ingredients

Kumkumadi Tailam is prepared from a herbal paste of over 21 herbs. Almost all the Ayurvedic herbs useful for skin are used as Kumkumadi oil ingredients. These ingredients are first made into a decoction. Then, Sesame oil is added as the base oil to absorb the potent energy of the herbs.

1. Kumkumadi Oil For Skin Brightening

The most well-known ingredient of Kumkumadi Tailam is Saffron (Kukum), which is fabled for its ability to transform your skin tone. By rejuvenating the skin cells and promoting blood circulation, it brightens the complexion.

Another ingredient with the same function is Sandalwood (Chandana) derived from fragrant wood of the Sandalwood tree. It contains skin lightening agents with soothing properties that make the oil suitable for application even in summers. [2]

If you want to use Kumkumadi Tailam for skin brightening, you can rely on these ingredients to naturally bring out a glowing complexion.

2. Kumkumadi Oil For Healing from Skin Infections

Kumkumadi Tailam uses are not limited to skin brightening. If you’ve any skin conditions like blemishes, or certain kinds of bacterial or fungal infections, you can heal them naturally by using Kumkumadi Oil.

The oil gets its antifungal properties from Lac (Laksha). It’s derived from the resinous secretion of lac insects and proves extremely useful in treating skin infections. 

Note - Kama Ayurveda’s preparation of Kumkumadi Miraculous Night Serum is 100 percent Ayurvedic, and cruelty-free and no animals/insects are harmed in the process of sourcing Lac. 

Along with Lac, many other Ayurvedic ingredients present in the oil help in skin healing. 

Derived from a perennial climber growing in the Himalayas, Indian Madder (Manjistha) provides antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Extracts from Sappan Wood or Indian Redwood (Pattanga) and Pollen of Lotus flower (Kamala Keshara) give Kumkumadi Tailam healing properties and treat conditions like skin inflammation.

3. Kumkumadi Oil or Pigmentation and Discolouration

One of the most critical functions of Kumkumadi Oil is in treating discolouration and pigmentation of the skin. 

A natural skin brightening Ayurvedic ingredient, Licorice root extract (Madhuyashtika) in Kumkumadi Oil inhibits the enzyme that causes pigmentation in response to sun exposure. It also helps in diminishing the dark pigmentation resulting from scars.

Wild Himalayan Cherry (Padma), Leaves of the Banyan tree (Nyarodhna) and Vetiver roots (Usheera) present in Kumkumadi Tailam are other Ayurvedic herbs that are effective in brightening the complexion and treating skin discoloration revealing a smoother, younger-looking complexion. 

These ingredients make Kumkumadi Oil a popular Ayurvedic medicine for hyperpigmentation.

Dark spots, a common condition associated with skin pigmentation, can also be treated naturally by using Kumkumadi Thailam. 

However, if you’re looking to get rid of tan from all over your body, then Nalpamaradi Thailam is recommended. 

4. Kumkumadi Oil for Oily Skin

Do you have oily skin? Are you worried that using Kumkumadi Tailam as a facial oil will make your skin even more oily? While many facial oils are not suitable for oily skin, Kumkumadi oil has unique ingredients that are appropriate and also beneficial for oily skin!

Take, for instance, Indian Barberry (Kaliyaka) present in Kumkumadi oil. The herb is known for its ability to reduce the production of skin lipids (or sebum). This ingredient makes the oil perfect for unclogging pores, taming oily skin and preventing acne. [2]

The extract from the seed of Blue Lotus (Neelotpala) is also present in the oil. This extract is a natural moisturizer that results in glowing skin by balancing oiliness and preventing breakouts. Not only this, the musky scented Mahua (Madhuka) flowers used to prepare the oil provides it with cooling properties and the functionality as a skin toner. [4]

However, note that just using just one or two drops of the oil is enough when you’re using it for oily skin type.

5. Kumkumadi Oil for Hydration and Moisturization

Kumkumadi Tailam is perhaps the most hydrating and nourishing facial serum that you can choose for your skin. 

Do you know why? It’s because a concoction prepared from 10 powerful Ayurvedic roots from plants like Bael and Indian Trumpet Flower, known as Dashamool, is present in Kumkumadi Oil. Due to this, the oil is effective in treating excessive dryness of the skin. 

Next, let’s clear a few of the most common questions around the oil. 

FAQ About Kumkumadi Facial Oil

Can it be used for oily skin? What about sensitive skin? Are there no side effects? Even while using the best Kumkumadi Tailam, you can have some doubts in mind. We’ve covered all of them below. Let’s start by checking the suitability of the oil for dry skin types. 

(Note: These answers are specific to Kumkumadi Thailam in the form of Kama Ayurveda’s Kumkumadi Oil Miraculous Beauty Night Serum.)

Is Kumkumadi Oil suitable for dry skin?

Kumkumadi Oil is a natural moisturizer that uses Sesame oil as the base oil. It balances dry and rough skin by virtue of its Vata pacifying nature. Hence, it is useful for dry skin. You can increase the number of drops to 4-5 if your skin is dry.

Is Kumkumadi Facial Oil suitable for oily skin?

Yes, Kumkumadi Tailam is suitable for oily skin. However, the most common disclaimer attached to the oil is don’t over-use Kumkumadi Tailam if you have oily skin. It is inadvisable to keep a thick layer of this oil at night. Reduce the number of drops to 1-2. Leave it on for one or two hours and then wash off with a mild cleanser.

Is Kumkumadi Oil suitable for acne-prone skin?

Kumkumadi Oil is not suitable for acne-prone skin. You can check our Anti-Acne Skin Care range for acne-related issues.

Is Kumkumadi Facial Oil suitable for sensitive skin?

For sensitive skin, patch testing is recommended. Start with less quantity for a shorter duration and gradually increase it. Hydrate and tone with Rose Water in case you have oily and sensitive skin and with Mogra Water in case of dry and sensitive skin.

Can I apply Kumkumadi Oil after my night cream?

Try using Kumkumadi oil and your night cream on alternate nights. If you experience any skin issues, then it’s best not to mix the two.

Can I apply Kumkumadi Oil during day time?

Due to the presence of real Saffron, Kumkumadi oil is not suitable for use in the daytime. If used during the day, there is a high chance of getting a tan.

How long does it take for Kumkumadi Oil to start showing results

You need to apply the oil regularly for at least three weeks to see results.

Are there any side effects of using Kumkumadi Tailam?

While generally safe, some individuals might experience skin irritation or allergies. It's advisable to perform a patch test before regular use.

How to make Kumkumadi Tailam at home?

To prepare Kumkumadi Tailam at home, take a coarse powder (48 gm each) of all the herbs mentioned under the key ingredients (Kwath Dravya) except Manjistha, Mulethi, Mahua, Lac and Pattanga. Soak these herbs in 9.126L of water. After soaking for a few hours, boil this herb water mixture and let it simmer till the quantity reduces to 1/4th. Filter out the concoction (Kwath) and keep it aside. 

Now, take 12g each of Manjistha, Mulethi, Mahua, Lac and Pattanga and add a little water to prepare a smooth paste (Kalka). Add both Kwath and Kalka to 192 ml Sesame Oil and boil till only oil remains.

Finally, prepare a paste of Saffron and add it to the oil. With this final step, your Kumkumadi Oil will be ready.

Should I make my own Kumkumadi Tailam at home?

As the process of preparing Kumkumadi Oil at home is complex and requires many ingredients to be used in the exact proportions, it’s recommended to buy Kumkumadi Facial Oil from Ayurvedic beauty brands.

Should you apply anything before or after Kumkumadi Oil?

You should cleanse and tone your skin with a natural cleanser and toners before applying Kumkumadi Oil. Leave the oil to work on your skin and do not use anything else after its application.

Where can I buy the best Kumkumadi Tailam?

Kama Ayurveda’s Kumkumadi Facial Oil Miraculous Beauty Night Serum offers all the benefits of Kumkumadi Oil and is one the best in the market.

Can Kumkumadi Oil be used on babies?

No, we do not recommend our Kumkumadi Oil for babies. For babies, you can check our Baby Care range.

Can I use Kumkumadi Tailam overnight? 

Yes, leaving Kumkumadi Tailam on your face overnight allows your skin to absorb its beneficial properties while you sleep.

What is the difference between Nalpamaradi Thailam and Kumkumadi Tailam?

Kumkumadi Tailam is prescribed to treat dull, pigmented, damaged and aging skin. It’s recommended for the face. While Nalpamaradi Thailam is a powerful skin brightening and detanning treatment that can be used on both the face and body. The key ingredient in Kumkumadi Tailam is Saffron while the key ingredient in Nalpamaradi Thailam is Turmeric. In both the oils, Sesame oil provides the nourishing and hydrating base.

Conclusion

Kumkumadi oil (Kumkumadi Tailam) is based on Ayurvedic concepts and heals the skin in a slow, sustained manner. By penetrating into the tissues during the facial massage, it clears the impurities from within.

Due to lack of time and proper knowledge, we turn to cosmetics that promise quick results but are often left disappointed. Our facial skin has unique needs, which, if appropriately attended, can result in a naturally glowing skin. Here’s how you can build your customized skincare routine using natural products and include Kumkumadi facial oil as a part of your daily skincare regimen.

Lovers of traditional Indian rituals and Ayurveda find the ingredients used in Kumkumadi Facial Oil fascinating for its role in treating common skin issues like dark circles, tanned skin, hyperpigmentation, and blemishes. 

Kama Ayurveda recommends Kumkumadi Oil Miraculous Beauty Night Serum to treat your facial skin with the numerous benefits of Kumkumadi Tailam.

Have you used Kumkumadi Oil to treat your skin issues? Do share your experience and drop any questions that you may have in the comments below.

References -

1. Kaviraj Govind Das sen Bhaisajya Ratnavali (with Hindi translations), Chaukhamba Surbharati Prakashan, Varanasi (2016), pp 942, 943
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4623628/
3. Batubara, I., Mitsunaga, T., & Ohashi, H. (2010). Brazilin from Caesalpinia sappan wood as an anti-acne agent. Journal of wood science, 56(1), 77-81.
4. http://www.foodandnutritionjournal.org/volume6number2/mahua-a-boon-for-pharmacy-and-food-industry/

There has been quite an upsurge in people trying to find natural and less processed ingredients for their skincare and make-up products, one of such ingredients is - yes, you guessed it - Rose Water! Rose Water is not something we are new to, sure, the youngins might be new to it, or the western beauty world might be just discovering rosewater, but it has been around in the east for a long, long time.

Rose Water is not only a beauty ingredient but also plays a key role in maintaining our mental health. According to ayurvedic texts, rose balances ‘Sadhaka Pitta’, the subdosha of Pitta, which governs emotions and their effect on the heart and thoughts. Isn’t it wonderful how Rose Water can do wonders for your body as well the mind?

Rose Water, produced by distilling rose petals with steam is thought to have originated in Iran. It has been used for thousands of years in beauty products, food and drinks! This magic ingredient contains a ton of benefits, especially for skin health! Would you like to know how to use rosewater properly? We have a guide waiting right here, read on!  

Benefits Of Rose Water For Face

We mentioned earlier how rose water is used in beauty products because of the number of benefits it offers, especially for the skin! Would you like to know what it does? Take a look -

• Helps soothe irritated and red skin:

Rose water is one of the go-to skincare products if you need to calm irritated and blotchy skin! It has strong anti-inflammatory properties which can help soothe eczema and rosacea! Moreover, rosewater contains antibacterial properties which can help in evening out your complexion by reducing the redness which is caused by acne and allergies.

• Helps prevent and treat infections: 

Ever wondered why so many natural treatments used in healing various ailments contain rosewater? Well, the answer is, simply, because it helps! Rosewater has got powerful antiseptic and analgesic properties, and can prevent and treat infections!

• Helps in wound healing:

Got a cut or a burn? Got a scar that has now healed but gone dark and just won’t vanish? Rosewater can help! Remember how we mentioned it has antibacterial and antiseptic properties? Apply some rosewater to your cut or gently dab it using some cotton on your burn, it can help in speeding up the healing process. Additionally, if you have some scarring left-over from a zit, try using rosewater as toner at least 3 times a week while doing your skincare routine, you should be able to see a positive change swiftly!

• Contains anti-ageing properties:

Rose oil and rose petals (and consequently, rosewater) contain a number of powerful antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage. It has been found that these antioxidants had potential lipid peroxidation inhibitory effects. This provides powerful cell protection as a result. Combine the knowledge of these facts and the fact that rosewater already has antibacterial properties, and we have established that rosewater is an excellent help against ageing! Rosewater helps your skin retain its firmness and bounciness for significantly longer with long-term use!

How To Use Rose Water For The Face?

In the section above, we led you through the scientifically proven health benefits that rosewater can offer to you for your skin, and now you may want to try it for yourself! Are we correct? Can we offer you some interesting and prudent ways in which you can utilize rosewater in your day-to-day lives? Here you go -

• Rosewater as a Toner: 

Now, most people who do not know any better tend to skip the toning part while doing their regular skincare routines, but there is a reason why it exists in the first place! A toner removes leftover oils and dirt from the skin that the cleanser may have missed. Hence, a toner aids in cleansing the skin thoroughly while maintaining the skin’s delicate pH balance. While most toners in the market as of now are all filled to the brim with alcohol and dry out the skin as a consequence, pure rose water is incredibly gentle in nature and also possesses astringent properties which help clean the pores of oil and grime.

Use it regularly (at least 3 times a week) and Rose Water will keep the skin free of extra oil and help prevent problems like blackheads, whiteheads, acne and pimple.

This following video shows how you can incorporate Rose Water in your daily skincare routine. 

• Rosewater as a Facial Mist: 

Everything we just mentioned about rose water being an excellent toner stands along with the impeccable hydrating capabilities of rose water! Are you someone who is out and about a lot, especially in the summers? You can use rosewater as a facial mist, carry some around in one of those travel-sized bottles, and boom - you have a refreshing but natural and calming facial mist to spritz on your face for your summer escapades! Oh, bonus, it smells heavenly!

• Rosewater as a Makeup Remover:

Some people can simply never find a suitable makeup remover for their skin - yes, that is, in fact, a big problem since a lot of people with sensitive skin breakout because of their makeup removers! There is no reason to tolerate irritating makeup removers anymore - rosewater contains astringent properties and when applied liberally on the face with a cotton pad or ball, it can help in gently dissolving your makeup by mixing in with the oils present on your skin and breaking it all down, just as a regular makeup remover product.  

• Rosewater as a Cleanser:

As mentioned, Rose Water can take off the leftover dirt and grime which the cleanser fails to take off, but can it be used as a substitute for an actual cleanser? Yes, yes it can be! Mix 2-3 teaspoons of Rosewater with 1 teaspoon of Fuller’s Earth (also known as Multani Mitti), mix it in till it is smooth and apply it by spreading it on to your face evenly. Once applied, you can massage the exceptionally oily areas of your (the nose, the T-zone, the chin) gently and briefly, let the mix stay on your face for 2 minutes and then wipe off gently (do not tug or rub!) with a soft cloth dipped in lukewarm water, then rinse your face.

The Fuller’s Earth in this Rose water cleanser helps in extracting the excess sebum and grime from your pores as it is very absorbent, and the rosewater, of course, works like a charm in every situation by calming any inflammation and acting on the breakouts on the surface of the skin.

• Rosewater as a Moisturizer:

Yet another fantastic use for rosewater if you have some leftover from all the uses we just informed you about! Mix in 4 teaspoons of rosewater with 2 teaspoons of raw honey, mix it well and apply it on to your face, leave it on for about 5-10 minutes, then rinse it off with considerably cold water, and voila! The raw honey is an impeccable moisturizer, it has hydrating benefits along with antioxidants, mixed with rosewater as a solid base for honey to hold on to, these two make a great moisturizing team!

• DIY Face Packs using Rosewater:

Perhaps you are somebody who already has their skincare routine down pat, and aren’t even really looking for a new addition - can we show you some DIY face masks? Everyone gets bored with their skincare once in a while, and wants to switch things up, the next time you want to try something new, try one of these face masks! We present to you face packs that you can make yourself, according to your skin type - Dry, Normal, and Oily.

Let us start with dry skin - Mix in 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel and raw honey each, into 2 tablespoons of rosewater, mix them all well, then apply liberally onto your cleansed but wet face. The raw honey and seals in the hydration, while aloe vera gel and rosewater work on the inflammation and irritation which can occur due to extreme dryness of the skin. Keep the mask on for 10 minutes at the very least, then rinse it off with considerably cold water.

For normal skin - Mix 2 teaspoons of gram flour, along with 1 tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt, into 4 tablespoons of rosewater, mix them well and apply liberally to your face and neck. We would encourage you to gently massage your face immediately after applying the mask to your face, this will help the gram flour to exfoliate your skin while the yogurt moisturizes and the rosewater takes off the grime and provides hydration. Leave the mask on for 10 minutes at least, then rinse off with lukewarm water.  

For oily skin - Mix 1 tablespoon of Bentonite Clay and 2 tablespoons of fresh cucumber juice to 2 tablespoons of rosewater, mix them well and spread evenly on the face. The Bentonite Clay, similar to Fuller’s Earth, is very absorbent and will extract the excess sebum and grime out of your pores, and so does the rosewater along with hydrating the skin, while the cucumber juice soothes and moisturizes the skin lightly. Leave the mask on for 8-10 minutes, depending on when the mask looks like it is still wet but feels dry to the touch, gently take out the mask with a soft cloth dipped in lukewarm water.  

How To Make Rose Water

Is all this talk about rose water finally breaking your resolve to not buy another skincare product until your current ones are running low? If not, we have a solution for you. If you are not ready to commit to rosewater enough to buy it just yet, perhaps we can teach you to make your own, so you can try and see for yourself, all the goodness that rosewater contains!

- Put fresh rose petals into a cooking pot, and pour distilled water all over them, enough to just cover all the petals with the water, we would like to emphasize that adding too much water can dilute the quality of your rosewater a bit too much, and do not forget to put the lid on the pot;

- Time to set the cooking pot on to the stove, the fire on but keep it on the ‘low’ setting, so the contents of the pot will come to a boil, but slowly;

- Once the contents have come to a boil, turn off the heat but let the lid remain on the pot, wait for the contents to cool down to room temperature;

- As soon as they come down to room temperature, you can strain out the rose petals and pour the fresh rosewater that you have just prepared, into a sanitized bottle, preferable one with a spray cap, and there you go, your very own rosewater!  

If you found the process of making your own Rose Water more complex than what you thought it to be, don’t worry! In the next section, we’ve the perfect alternative for you - buying the purest Rose Water prepared from the best roses - the Bulgarian roses.

Best Rose Water For The Face

Looking at the previous section of this article, some of you might be wondering - ‘Huh? But why would I make all this effort just to make some rosewater when I can just buy a bottle?’ - and to you, we say: we’ve got you, too! If you would much rather we just recommend a good brand for buying rosewater from, then your wish has been granted. Here is our recommendation for you:

It is Kama Ayurveda’s ‘Pure Rose Water’ - it has been described as ‘…a decadent floral distillation that refreshes, hydrates, and tones, leaving the skin scented with the luxuriant scent of pure Roses.’

The Pure Rose Water is made from the roses of Kannauj (Uttar Pradesh) - a region in North India, which is rich in white soil, which is conducive to the roses’ growth. The Kannauj rose is considered special because of its similarity to the Bulgarian rose. The steam distillation process of production of the Pure Rose Water is hygienic and uncontaminated to an extreme length. Plus it comes in a bottle already equipped with a spray cap - it eliminates your hassle of trying to find and sanitize properly, a bottle with a good spray cap!

What you get as your end product is a light, clear, and cooling water that can be sprayed directly to your skin, and leaves your skin revived and hydrated without any residue or stickiness - so you can spritz away happily!

Side Effects Of Rose Water

Rosewater happens to be extremely safe to use unless you are allergic to roses or fragrance in general. We would recommend doing thorough research before buying your rosewater to make sure it is, in fact, pure rosewater with no added substances for aesthetics. Once you have made sure the product you have is pure rosewater, we emphasize the importance of doing a patch test before using any new skincare product, in case you turn out to be allergic to any of the ingredients in the product.

If you are not familiar with doing a patch test, this how it is done - simply apply the new product on the inside of your arm, or behind your ear, and leave it applied for 24-72 hours, if there is no redness, itching, burning, or dryness after this period of time, the product is safe for you to use!  

Frequently Asked Questions About Rose Water

• How can I use rose water for the face?

You can use it in many different ways, as we mention in the article above - you can use rosewater as a cleanser, toner, moisturizer, or simply as a facial mist!

• Can I use rose water daily?

Yes, you can! It is extremely gentle and can be used daily - you can use rosewater as a facial mist, allowing you to spray it on your face for some hydration during the day, or you can just use it as your toner as part of your regular skincare routine.

• Can I sleep with rose water on the face?

Yes, you can! If your skin is not reacting to the use of rosewater, prolonged use of it on your face should not be a problem! We suggest mixing some rosewater with some fresh aloe vera gel and leaving it on your face overnight!

• Should I wash my face after applying rose water?

It is not necessary, considering how many people tend to apply rosewater as a toner and then put on some moisturizer, no rinsing needed - however, it is up to your preferences!

• Does rose water have side effects?

Unless you have an allergy to roses or your skin is too sensitive to the mild fragrance of pure rosewater as well, no, rosewater is extremely safe and gentle on the skin.

• What happens if I use rose water on the face daily?

Nothing bad, if that’s what your concern is! As mentioned throughout the article, unless you are allergic to roses or sensitive to any fragrance, in general, rosewater is incredibly mild and safe. Incorporating rosewater regularly into your skincare routine will help your skin by reducing your acne and calming the inflammation, all while hydrating your skin and reducing the appearance of your pore size.

References:

• Study on antioxidant and potential anti-inflammatory activity of extracts and formulations of rose

• Study depicting the  Pharmacological Effects of Rosa Damascena

• Antibacterial and antioxidant activity of different types of honey

• Effects of plant sterols derived from Aloe vera gel on human dermal fibroblasts in vitro and on skin condition

• Comparative Study of Laterite and Bentonite Based Organoclays

Most of us associate stretch marks with pregnancy, but did you know that’s not the only cause of stretch marks? Stretch marks are simply lines or stripes that appear on the skin when someone goes through a rapid weight gain or loss. It is most common among women post-pregnancy or rapid weight gain, although it may happen to men and teenagers as well. 

The thing with stretch marks is that even though they’re harmless, they might pose to trigger self-esteem issues in some people because of the beauty standards these days. 

If you are here looking for solutions to get rid of your stretch marks, you have come to the right place. But, before we get into that, I want to tell a little story that will help you change your view about stretch marks.

While growing up, I was always fascinated by the stretch marks on my father's upper arm. He used to tell me all sorts of tales made up around it. Once, he said that those were scars he got when he was caught up in a fistfight with a tiger. He said that he killed the tiger, but it left him with these scars that he wore with pride. I never believed him, of course, but I would be lying if I were to tell you that I was never fascinated by those stretch marks of his.

We’ll be talking in detail about stretch marks and even discuss some natural remedies to help you with stretch marks, but the point of this story is to remind you that your scars make you human and tell a story. It's your choice to let those scars affect your esteem or to wear them with pride.

Why do we get stretch marks?

Stretch marks are long and narrow stripes or lines that appear on the skin when the skin is suddenly stretched or stretched too quickly. They usually occur on the stomach, thighs, hips, upper arms, back, etc. Stretch marks are a type of scarring that occurs when the skin is not able to resume normal form after a spurt of intense growth like in the case of pregnancy, weight gain or loss or puberty. 

In short, extreme skin shrinkage or growth is the main cause of stretch marks. Some people are more prone to having stretch marks based on conditions such as family history, chronic conditions or BMI. 

Popular causes of stretch marks include:

• Puberty: As mentioned earlier, rapid growth is the primary cause of stretch marks, and a lot of people experience rapid growth like sudden gain in height during the time of puberty. Hence, it is no surprise that puberty causes stretch marks.
• Pregnancy: More than sixty percent of pregnant women experience stretch marks during or after pregnancy.
• Rapid weight gain: Gaining a lot of weight all of a sudden can cause stretch marks
• Rapid weight loss: Just like gaining a lot of weight in a short period is dangerous; rapid weight loss can also lead to the appearance of stretch marks and cause scarring.
• Corticosteroid creams and lotions: Continued use of corticosteroid creams and lotions (used to reduce skin inflammation caused by conditions such as psoriasis and eczema) can reduce the collagen level in the skin. Collagen plays a significant role by strengthening the dermis; hence a reduction in collagen can increase the risk of stretch marks.
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions can cause stretch marks too. Marfan syndrome is one such example where the elasticity of the skin tissue reduces, causing the skin to scar. In the case of Cushing's syndrome, the body produces too much hormone that leads to rapid weight gain or loss.

If you have stretch marks on your skin, by now, you might have been able to identify the cause for your stretch marks. With an understanding of the different types of stretch marks, you might have questions like - Are all these stretch marks the same? Are these stretch marks permanent, or can they be treated? We’ll answer all these questions in the upcoming section.

Types of Stretch Marks

Stretch marks can be classified into two broad categories, namely Striae rubrae and Striae albae. Don't get scared by the complicated names. We'll try to explain them to you in brief.

Striae rubrae stretch marks are usually pink or reddish in appearance and are an acute stage of stretch marks. It is the earliest indication of an over-expanded dermis. These stretch marks are generally flattened and form a perpendicular or parallel pattern. If you develop these stretch marks, then you might experience some itching as well.

Striae albae stretch marks are more chronic as compared to striae rubrae, and in this case, the stretch marks are more scar-like, irregularly shaped, and pigmented. They are usually white and faded and may develop a fine, wrinkly texture to it. 

So, how long does it take for a striae rubrae stretch mark to turn into a striae albae stretch mark? Well, it can take anywhere from a month to even years for the skin to go from acute to chronic stage of stretch marks. 

These stretch marks can further be classified into striae gravidarum which are pregnancy stretch marks, striae atrophicans appear on people suffering from Cushing's syndrome and striae caerulea stretch marks that develop on darker skin.

Now that we know about the different types of stretch marks, let’s address the next important question.

How to remove stretch marks at home?

There are various ways to fade stretch marks from your body, but nothing beats the classic old home remedies. However, it's important to note that some stretch marks are harder to fade than others. The good thing about trying out natural solutions is that they are entirely harmless. Even if they don't fade away from your stretch marks completely, you'll be left with nourished skin.

So, here are some of the home remedies to help you get rid of stretch marks:

1. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has been used in skin and beauty products since the very beginning. It has many miraculous healing properties and is known to help regenerate the skin. Extract fresh Aloe Vera gel from the leaf and massage it over the stretch marks, leaving it on for 20 to 30 minutes. Wash it off and pat dry. Repeat it daily, and you will notice the results within a few weeks.

2. Castor Oil

Castor oil, when massaged into the dry, shriveled up stretch marks, provide it with nourishment and moisture, and helps to heal the skin slowly. You can massage your skin with castor oil during the day and night to get noticeable results. Keeping the scars moisturized will even eventually make them less visible.

3. Almond oil and coconut oil

Both Almond oil and Coconut oil have excellent healing properties, so what’s better than a combination of the two? You can mix almond oil and coconut oil in equal proportions and massage it onto the stretch marks regularly, and the stretch marks will disappear in no time.

4. Lemon Juice and Cucumber paste

Lemon is known for its lightning and healing properties, and cucumber acts as a cooling agent. Mix lemon juice and cucumber paste in equal quantities and apply it to the skin. Leave it on for 15 minutes and wait for it to get soaked into the skin. Then wash off and pat dry.

5. Egg Whites

Egg whites are high in proteins and amino acids. When applied to the skin, egg whites not only lighten the stretch marks but also tightens the skin. To use egg whites for fading stretch marks, simply take egg white from to eggs and apply a thick layer on the stretch marks with the help of a makeup brush. Allow the egg whites to dry completely then rinse this area with water. You might need to repeat the process daily for at least about two weeks to get results.

6. Potato Juice

Potato juice contains a variety of enzymes and starch that lighten the skin, which is the reason why it is used to treat dark spots, blemishes, and pigmentation of the skin. Apply potato juice on the skin regularly to lighten and reduce stretch marks.

7. Body butter

Rich body butter such as Cocoa butter and Shea butter help in reducing stretch marks, especially pregnancy stretch marks. Massage cocoa butter over pregnancy stretch marks at night before sleeping religiously and watch your stretch marks fade away in a few weeks.

8. Sugar scrub

Exfoliating the skin will remove dead skin cells and help in fading out the stretch marks. It also makes way for other skin treatments to penetrate the skin faster and work more effectively. Mix lemon juice, olive oil, and sugar to form a scrub. Apply it on the stretch mark and rub it for a good 10 minutes. Rinse it with lukewarm water.

9. Apricots

Apricots are high in vitamins A, B, and C. Take two fresh apricots and grind them to form a smooth paste. Apply the paste directly on the affected area and leave it on for half an hour before washing it off with lukewarm water. Repeat it regularly to see the desired results.

10. Gotu Kola

Gotu kola is a herb that has been used in traditional Indonesian, Chinese, and Ayurvedic medicine. It is known to cure a variety of skin conditions like scars, pigmentation, and rashes. A study found that this herb increases collagen production, which increases the elasticity of the skin. This can heal stretch marks and prevent new ones from forming. Just make a smooth paste out of this herb and apply it daily on the affected area.

11. Black Tea

Black tea is rich in vitamins and minerals that can treat skin pigmentation. Boil a few tablespoons of black tea with a pinch of salt added to it. Let it cool down and then apply the mixture on the stretch marks. Repeat the process for a few weeks until the stretch marks disappear entirely.

12. Dietary home remedies

Drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water daily improves the elasticity of the skin and helps reduce stretch marks.
Vitamin C contains antioxidants that cause skin scars to heal faster. Hence, adequate intake of vitamin C will ensure that your stretch marks heal faster. Citrus fruits, peas, pineapples, spinach, tomatoes, are all excellent sources of vitamin C.

Vitamin E is also a rich source of antioxidants that fight free radicals and provides nourishment to the skin. Foods like avocado, papaya, pumpkin, hazelnuts, parsley, olives are excellent sources of vitamin E. Bone broth of chicken, lamb, or beef is a natural source of gelatin. Gelatin contains collagen, which improves skin elasticity.

Foods like chia seeds, cod liver oil, tofu, sardines, shrimps, cauliflower are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids that also help to improve the elasticity of the skin, thereby reducing the appearance of stretch marks.

How to remove stretch marks caused by pregnancy?

The science of Ayurveda recommends that women use special Ayurvedic oils for massage during pregnancy to get rid of stretch marks, to get relief from stress, to regulate hormones, and facilitate childbirth.

One such oil is Dhanwantharam Thailam. The unique composition of the oil with Ayurvedic ingredients such as Ashwagandha, Sesame seeds, Manjishtha, and Geranium makes it an effective traditional concoction with many benefits for expecting mothers. 

Do you know that the name of this oil comes from the God of Ayurveda, Dhanvantri? The oil has special significance for mothers. Not only it provides relief from pain and fatigue, but it also boosts overall energy and immunity. Massage during pregnancy with Dhanwantharam Thailam helps to strengthen the muscles and makes them strong enough to hold the fetus, which later helps in facilitating childbirth.

It works effectively to remove stretch marks because it has a high rich Vitamin E content. It keeps skin dehydration and flakiness at bay, improves skin elasticity, and prevents stretch marks. Massage the oil for at least 10-15 minutes to allow it to penetrate deeper into the skin and remove deposits close to the muscle. Leave on for at least 30 minutes and wash off with a mild body cleanser.

Here’s a video that shows how to use Dhanwantharam Thailam for massage.

Kama Ayurveda also recommends Muscle Tone Firming Treatment Oil to fade stretch marks caused by pregnancy. Apart from fading stretch marks, this oil also works towards treating sagging skin. Hence, it’s also used to tone breasts and abdominal muscles. With potent Ayurvedic ingredients like Sesame Oil, Clarified Butter, Sweet Flag, Turmeric, and Lavender, it helps in reducing the appearance of stretch marks on the abdominal and lower back regions. Massage warmed Muscle Tone Firming Treatment for 10-15 minutes daily for best results.

How long does it take for the stretch marks to fade?

The time taken for stretch marks to fade varies depending on whether these stretch marks are acute or chronic. Acute stretch marks that are pinkish-red in colour fade away faster than chronic stretch marks that are deep and white. It also depends on the type of treatment used and the dietary supplements consumed. Each one’s skin is different, and the time taken will also differ depending on the elasticity of the skin and various other factors.

While we cannot permanently remove stretch marks, stretch marks usually fade away within 6 to 12 months, provided you are taking good care of your skin. Following your skin's dietary requirements and religiously practicing the home remedies listed above can improve the skin's elasticity and heal the scars faster. Drinking lots of water will make the skin more supple and nourished, thus fastening the healing process. 

Also read- Dhanwantharam Thailam for massage during pregnancy

How to avoid getting stretch marks in the first place?

Prevention is always better than cure. It is better to avoid getting stretch marks in the first place rather than worrying about getting rid of them. Here are some tips and tricks to avoid or prevent the appearance of stretch marks on your skin:

• Moisturize your skin regularly - keeping the skin moisturized and supple can prevent stretch marks. Moisturizing the skin regularly can also reduce the itching of the skin that happens when the skin loses its elasticity.
• Gain healthy food during pregnancy - women should ensure that they gain a healthy amount of weight during pregnancy. Gynecologists recommend that women who are in a healthy BMI should gain 25-35 pounds during pregnancy, while overweight women should gain 15-25 pounds. Underweight women, on the other hand, should gain up to 40 pounds. Gaining just the right amount of weight during pregnancy is the key to prevent pregnancy stretch marks.
• Eat food rich in Omega 3 - Omega 3 fatty acids help keep the skin supple and youthful. Salmon, cod liver oil, sardines, chia seeds, soybeans are excellent sources of Omega 3.
• Avoid using steroid creams - Steroid creams- or corticosteroids contain cortisone which may weaken the skin structure and may result in stretch marks and scars. However, people already using such lotions must speak to their doctor before discontinuing it.
• Exercise - Exercising regularly can help you to lose weight at a healthy pace and attain the required healthy BMI. Exercising can also increase blood and oxygen flow in the skin, which acts as a catalyst in the skin regeneration process.
• Stay hydrated- One must drink at least 8-10 glasses of water every day to keep the skin hydrated and supple and reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

Other ways to improve stretch marks 

To conclude, we’ve also summarised some of the clinical treatments and procedures that help in removing stretch marks. These are not natural treatments or remedies and hence, they can have side effects. It's essential to consult a dermatologist and seek medical advice before going forward with them.

• Topical treatments- Topical creams and lotions are affordable and available over the counter. When applied regularly, although they cannot erase the stretch marks, they can lighten them to some extent. But always consult a doctor before using any such creams.
• Microdermabrasion- Microdermabrasion is a painless clinical procedure to fade away stretch marks. In this process, tiny crystals are sprayed into the affected area, and once they are removed, they take with them dead cells as well. Microdermabrasion needs to be performed multiple times over a while to see the results.
• Microneedling- Microneedling is a process in which tiny needles are poked into the skin which triggers the production of collagen. An increase in the production of collagen will improve the elasticity of the skin, thereby reducing the appearance of stretch marks.
• Laser therapy- In this treatment, laser light is directed at the scar, which causes tissues around the stretch marks to regenerate and heal faster. Laser therapy stimulates melanin production in the skin which causes scars to blend in with the normal skin.
• Cosmetic surgery- Cosmetic surgery is an expensive yet effective method to remove stretch marks permanently. Consult a doctor before opting for cosmetic surgery.

Home remedies are the ideal type of treatment, but you ought to be patient and persistent in seeing the results. Stretch marks are usually harmless and not a cause of concern. It may pose to be a self-esteem issue, but again, it's as I already mentioned at the beginning of the article, it's your choice whether to wear your scars with pride or to be ashamed of them. 

References -

• Topical management of striae distensae (stretch marks): 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5057295/

• Striae Distensae (Stretch Marks) and Different Modalities of Therapy:

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/24375828_Striae_Distensae_Stretch_Marks_and_Different_Modalities_of_Therapy_An_Update

• Management of stretch marks (with a focus on striae rubrae)

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5782435/

• Stretch marks: Why they appear and how to get rid of them

https://www.aad.org/public/cosmetic/scars-stretch-marks/stretch-marks-why-appear

• The use of anti-stretch marks' products by women in pregnancy

https://bmcpregnancychildbirth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12884-016-1075-9

During this time of home quarantines and social distancing, it is crucial to keep your mind and body healthy. Even when you feel stressed and overwhelmed, remember that oodles of self-compassion and self-care is the way to get through this difficult time. 

From watching the news channel every hour to scrolling down the social media feed a little too much in exasperation, it is easy to feel emotionally exhausted. But don’t worry, you are not alone in this. Here are some tips to take care of yourself if you are in an extended state of self-quarantine.

We begin with the most important one.

Taking Care Of Your Mind

1. Stay informed, but limit your news intake

It is always important to stay informed about what’s going on around you. But, at the same time, getting lost in that noise can lead to many psychological problems like depression, confusion, and anger.

So, try to seek reliable information from trusted sources; in that way, you can be well informed and less anxious. Consider taking breaks from the news and social media and distancing yourself from what’s going on in the world. We recommend not consuming any piece of news for hours at a stretch, but if that seems hard, even taking short breaks can prevent you from getting overwhelmed. It’ll be helpful to engage yourself in activities that remove you from the barrage of news and social media.

2. Try to stick to your routine even at home

Always stick to your daily routine; it can be your skincare routine, your diet routine, or your work routine. In that way, you will have a feeling of control even in a time of crisis. 

When you get up, do not open your laptop and start replying to emails right away. 

Take time to get ready. Just because you’re not going to the office doesn’t mean you shouldn’t dress up. Wearing your best clothes will put you in a better mood and help you feel energetic. 

Try to set a schedule for your work, meals, and bedtimes. Even though you don't have to be rigid, setting a goal will help you in finishing important tasks sooner, leaving you with plenty of time to have fun later.

3. Stay in touch with your loved ones 

Speaking to someone you love and sharing a good laugh is the human connection you need right now. In today’s hectic world, keeping in touch with everyone, especially when you live far away, is very hard. 

Why not use this spare time to put in an extra effort? Grab your phone and call your parents, friends, or coworkers.

4. Practice kindness and compassion

It’s important to remember that everyone you know is struggling in some way or the other. Some people are worried about their elderly parents or sick loved ones, some are worried about losing jobs, and almost everyone is overwhelmed or anxious with the ongoing events. 

We’re facing something we’ve never encountered in the past. So, how can you make it better for yourself and everyone else? 

Simply be kind and compassionate. When you follow up with your coworker about a pending task, ask them how they are doing. If you’re living with family, try to adjust and create an environment that helps everyone work better. We can make it through this together.

5. Create your comfort playlist 

Creating your comfort playlist will help you keep your mind calm. Your comfort playlist can be the songs you would dance to while in the shower. Or it can be meditative music to help yourself fall asleep.

When you want to unwind after a tough day, turn on the music, reduce the lights in your room, prepare a cup of chamomile tea, and enjoy!

6. Clean and organize to help yourself feel in control

Don't you think this is a great time to clean and organize your home? Well, for me, it's a YES! Clean and organize your closet, cupboards, and the pantry.

Even your kids can do way more than you think. Keep them engaged by making them sort their toys, clean their room, or play areas. 

7. Make time to unwind and enjoy

What’s a quarantine for without a fun way to pass the time? List out all the things that make you happy and start with them. 

Use bath oil to give yourself a full body oil massage after a long relaxing bath, apply a face pack, write in your journal, read a book you always wanted to read, learn new skills like knitting or painting, meditate, do Yoga, or cook. Along with fighting boredom, preparing your daily fun to-do list will also challenge your creativity. 

8. Use Essential Oils To Dissipate Anxiety And Stress

Aromatherapy at home is a great way to keep your mind calm and poised during times like these. Take help of suitable essential oils to create a soothing environment at home, regulate your nervous system and improve focus and concentration. 

Here, we've talked about four different types of Kama Ayurveda’s essential oils that can benefit you at this time.

• Ylang Ylang Essential Oil For Calming

If you are looking for promoting your inner-peace, confidence, and relaxation, which is essential for not feeling overwhelmed, this Ylang Ylang oil is perfect for you. Inhaling the floral and intensely sweet aroma of Ylang Ylang, you can easily uplift your mood by bringing on stronger feelings of awareness, confidence, peace, and self-love.

• Tea Tree Essential Oil For Energising

Tea Tree essential oil, which is steam distilled from the leaves and twigs of tea tree, is well known for natural healing and general well being. The warm, fresh, spicy, and herbal aroma of the tea tree essential oil helps in strengthening the vital energy within the body, energizing the heart and mind and uplifting the spirit.

• Orange Essential Oil To Fight Depression And Anxiety

If you are feeling depressed and having anxiety attacks due to the social distancing, then orange essential oil can be your best friend in action. The cheerful and exhilarating scent of this essential oil can boost focus and mental activity while fighting anxiety and depression.

• Peppermint Essential Oil For Relief From Congestion

If you have fallen sick and have the symptoms of cold and cough, this peppermint essential oil can be your knight in shining armor. The minty and robust aroma of the peppermint essential oil can help in relieving any respiratory issues like nasal congestion, sinusitis, asthma, bronchitis, and even the common cold and cough. Peppermint also helps in soothing headaches, PMS, and nausea while improving mental clarity and raising energy levels.

Taking care of your health

We are all experiencing solitude in solidarity right now! It is a perfect time to get into some serious self-care and establish healthy routines by changing our diet and incorporating better nutrients into it. It's a great time to catch up on your sleep and let the body figure out its circadian rhythm. 

Keeping yourself healthy is quite a challenge! Let us give you some tips on how to take care of your health.

9. Make time to work out and meditate

Exercising can make you feel comfortable by keeping your body moving to process anxiety and to stay healthy. Are you missing your gym or yoga classes? Don't worry; they are plenty of at-home exercise Youtube tutorials and applications that can spruce up your fitness routine. You can download Nike Training App, which is completely free on iOS as well as Android devices. It has Yoga as well as other fitness modules that you can follow easily. 

Meditation, on the other hand, will help you in slowing down your heart rate and clearing your mind. When practiced regularly, meditation can help you in buffering the effects of stress, which in turn will significantly support your immune system. Headspace App has released free mediation sessions for all to help people get through this time.

10. Cook yourself some easy healthy meals

If you are a fan of cooking, plan out some healthy meals using what you have on hand and cook them for yourself and everyone in your house. Preparing food can be a fun way to challenge your creativity and fight boredom. 

Now that you've to work from home and eat at home, it's an excellent opportunity to include healthy nuts, fruits, and vegetables in your diet.

11. Give yourself a relaxing head massage 

An Indian head massage with Ayurvedic hair oils is a holistic treatment that helps you in relaxing by releasing stress that has accumulated in the tissues, joints and muscles of the head, face, neck and shoulders. It helps in rebalancing your body’s energies which is a must right now.

Kama Ayurved's Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment Oil gives you the relaxation you want by soothing frayed nerves. It also helps in uplifting mood and aiding in a good night's rest. If you suffer from hair problems like dandruff and hair fall, then massaging your hair regularly with Bringadi oil will help you. Take a few drops of the oil, and gently massage your scalp in circular motions.

12. Stay hydrated with Ayurvedic health drinks

Another best way to keep you healthy during your Quarantine is by drinking some natural ayurvedic health drinks made from the ingredients readily available in your kitchen. These Ayurvedic drinks help you in boosting your immunity and staying fit. Drinking them is another way to increase your water intake, which is beneficial in maintaining overall physical and mental health.

Some of the best ayurvedic healthy drinks are listed below.

• Fenugreek Water:

Fenugreek Seeds, commonly found in every Indian household, is a storehouse of many medicinal properties. They are slightly bitter but can cure any health problem. Fenugreek seeds are excellent sources for antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking fenugreek water not only boosts your immunity but also helps in promoting better digestion and controlling blood sugar levels.

Soak one tablespoon of fenugreek or methi seeds in two glasses of water and leave it overnight. You can drink this mixture as soon as you wake up the next morning on an empty stomach.

• Tulsi Water

Tulsi has long been used in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties. It is loaded with tons of antibiotics, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. Tulsi helps in preventing fever, cold and is also very good for your skin and hair. Many people simply chew Tulsi leaves to get rid of the headache and sore throat. 

All you need to do is take a cup of water in a pan and add 5 to 6 Tulsi, or Holy Basil leaves to it. Bring this water to boil. You can drink it as it is and can also make tea by adding one teaspoon of honey and half a teaspoon of lemon juice.

• Cinnamon Water

Cinnamon has also been used for medicinal purposes for centuries by Ayurveda. Loaded with antioxidants, Cinnamon helps in protecting our body from oxidative damage that is caused by free radicals. Cinnamon’s inflammatory properties help in protecting our body from any kind of infection.

Just boil a cinnamon stick in a glass of water and have this water for the entire day. You can also add cinnamon powder instead of the stick.

13. Ensure that you have a good sleep at night

Your energy and mood greatly depend on the quality of your sleep. Daily stress and a change in routine can make it difficult to fall asleep. So, we have a few tips to help you sleep better.

• Try to get up at the same time as it sets your body clock
• Even though times are hard, avoid too much alcohol as it can make you get up in the middle of your sleep and cause disturbed sleep. 
• Stop using screens at least 30 minutes before bed. 
• Get relaxed before bed. You can take a hot bath or read for a while to unwind.
• Avoid consuming caffeine after midday.
• Keep a notebook to jot down all your worries and your plans for the next day.
• Put lavender essential oil in your bath or in your oil diffuser as it promotes sleep.
• Go early to bed so that you have at least 6 to 8 hours of relaxing sleep.

Take care of your skin

Even though your priorities are taking care of your emotional and physical health, never leave out taking care of your skin. Remember how you’ve been trying to make skincare a priority for a long time but couldn’t because you never had the time for it. 

Well, you’ve all the time now. Here are some best tips to take care of your skin during the time of Quarantine.

14. Wash your hands regularly, but do not forget to moisturize them. 

If you are following the news up to date, you will already know how important washing your hands is. It is the first and foremost thing you have to do to protect yourself and your family from Coronavirus as it is your hands that carry all your germs to your respiratory tract. Keeping them as clean as possible is essential. 

How to wash your hands and which cleanser to use? Read on to know.

Wet your hands with water and apply enough soap that contains natural oils and actives for gentle cleansing. Spend at least 20 seconds washing your hands.

You can use Kama Ayurveda’s Rose Jasmine Hand Cleanser to cleanse your hands and soften them with the luxurious blend of floral and plant ingredients. The Aloe Vera juice in the cleanser helps in nourishing and conditioning the skin. Rose Jasmine Hand Cleanser is best for frequent hand washes as it does not dry out your skin.

Here are the steps to follow to wash your hands -

• Rub your hands together and thoroughly wash them. Rub one hand on the back of the other hand. Don’t forget to clean in between the fingers.
• Wash your hands with water and dry them out with a disposable towel.
• Now, moisturize your hands with a moisturizer that can hydrate your hands and leave your skin soft and silky.

Kama Ayurveda’s Rose Jasmine Hand Lotion is enriched with Olive oil, Aloe Vera juice, Tea Tree Oil, Rosemary Oil, and Basil Oil to help you in calming and conditioning dry and sensitive skin. The pure rose and jasmine essential oils leave your hands feeling soft and hydrated.

15. Your daily skincare routine 

Since you are at home, it's a great time to practice being regular with your skincare routine. You finally have enough time at your hand to focus on your skin. Following a skincare ritual is also a fantastic way to relax and become mindful.

If you don’t have any skin care routine yet, then we have Kama Ayurveda’s Skin Care Regime Kits to help you get started. (And you can get them delivered at your place by simply placing an order online or giving us a call.)

• Kama Ayurveda’s Daily Face Care Regime For Women

Your basic skin care is a combination of CTM (Cleanse, Tone and Moisturize), and our Daily Face Care Regime For Women simplifies this for you.

1. Cleanse - Use Rose Jasmine Face Cleanser that contains soothing and antibacterial properties that help in cleansing and keeping skin soft and clear without drying.

2. Tone - Use Pure Rose Water to balance and restore the skin’s pH levels and tighten pores.

3. Moisturize - Eladi Hydrating Ayurvedic Face Cream enhances skin texture and repairs acne, blemishes and signs of early ageing.

To make this skin care routine even more effective, you can start by applying Moringa Oil which repairs the skin from pollution and provides your daily dose of hydration. Now that you’re staying indoors, it’s a great opportunity to reverse the damage caused by the pollution and renew the skin cells.

To get even better results, we recommend that you repeat the CTM routine at night as well. However, you should replace your day cream with Kama Rejuvenating And Brightening Ayurvedic Night Cream or Kumkumadi Miraculous Beauty Fluid and Ayurvedic Night Serum. Your night skincare routine gives your skin an opportunity to heal and rejuvenate. It also serves as a great night time ritual that prepares your body to sleep.

• Kama Ayurveda’s Daily Face Care Regime For Men

Daily Face Care Regime For Men is the perfect skin care routine for men. The following simple steps will improve your skin texture resulting in smooth, soft and clear skin.

1. Cleanse - Using Himalayan Deodar Face Cleanser will leave your skin perfectly cleansed and hydrated. It also helps in preparing the skin for a comfortable shave.

2. Tone - Spray refreshing Pure Vetiver Water on your face and enjoy the soothing fragrance. This toner balances the pH levels of the skin and adds essential moisture to it while tightening and clarifying the pores.

3. Moisturize - Hydrating Ayurvedic Face Cream For Men is a nourishing day cream that helps in moisturizing, softens and protects the skin.

A night time skin ritual is also essential for men. This video illustrates how you can take care of your skin at night. Replace your day cream with Skin Brightening Night Cream For Men.

What to do if you’re feeling sick (and avoid getting sick)

Coronavirus has shaken the entire world and kept everyone under constant fear and suspicion. Over the spike in the past six days, India has crossed over 200 COVID-19 positive cases. In view of this rising treat, the government is requesting everybody to follow the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) prevention measures very strictly. So, let us discuss those measures and make sure we impose them on ourselves.

1. Wash Your Hands Frequently

Regularly wash your hands with soap and water or with an alcohol based hand rub. In that way you can kill the viruses that may be on your hands.

2. Maintain Social Distancing

Keep distant from anyone who is coughing and sneezing (at least 1 meter). Because maintaining distance can help you in preventing the liquid droplets that come from infected persons nose and mouth.

3. Avoiding Touching Eyes, Nose And Mouth

Your hands touch many things and many surfaces. So,  when you touch your nose, eyes or mouth with the same hands, there are high chances they can transfer the virus into your body. Therefore, make sure you avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

4. Practise Respiratory Hygiene

Cover your mouth and nose with bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then immediately dispose of the used tissue. Make sure the people around you too practise respiratory hygiene.

5. If You Have Fever Cough And Difficulty Breathing, Immediately Seek Medical Care

Stay home most of the time to avoid the virus from spreading you. If you feel like having respiratory problems, then immediately seek medical care and follow their directions. 

Remember that even though the times seem hard, we can get through it together. Kama Ayurveda is available for your service 24X7.

For most of us, a good hair day instantly puts us in a good mood. Such is the importance associated with the appearance of our hair. When even an occasional bad hair day can seriously put a damper on our mood, imagine how dreadful it’s to deal with your precious hair locks beginning to fall off.

Hair loss and hair thinning have become increasingly common in a majority of people these days. While for some, it’s the genes that are to blame, for others, it’s the chemicals present in their hair styling and colouring products. 

So, how do you deal with this problem and eliminate it from the root? Should you use medications? Or should you try out natural alternatives? If you are currently struggling with hair fall or hair thinning - regardless of your gender - you might find this article useful as we have compiled our best advice on managing hair loss at its early stages. 

Understanding Hair Fall

On average, our scalp has 100,000 hairs, cycling through their periods of growing, resting, falling out, and regenerating. Every hair follicle on your scalp goes through a phase where it rests before growing the next strand of hair. In this stage, the hair falls out. As a result of this, it’s normal to lose up to 100 strands of hair in a day.

The problem occurs when this cycle is disrupted, or when a hair follicle is damaged. In such cases, hair may begin to fall out more quickly than it regenerates, leading to hair loss problems such as a receding hairline, hair falling out in patches, or overall thinning.

Symptoms of Hair Loss

Common symptoms of hair loss can be - hair loss in the parting of the hair in the mid-frontal area of the scalp (especially for women), for men, hair thinning on the top of the head, along with noticeable bald spots in the front are clear indications of ‘male pattern hair loss.’. 

Additionally, if you find excessive hair than usual on the hairbrush after you brush your hair or more than the usual amount of hair in the drain after washing your hair, these are also signs of hair loss.

Think you’re suffering from hair loss and wondering how to stop hair fall immediately at home? Book a free online consultation with our Ayurvedic beauty experts.

Top Hair Fall Reasons

So, why does hair loss occur? A lot of things can affect the growth of our hair, from something like nutritional deficiencies (Iron, Zinc, Vitamin D, and Protein), dandruff, and an exceptionally oily scalp - which can be corrected relatively easily. 

There are some serious causes of hair loss as well, like thyroid issues, hormonal imbalances, damage caused by long term heat application and chemical treatment.

Even chronic stress can be a cause of hair fall in some individuals, and hair thinning due to the hormone fluctuations around and after pregnancy and during Menopause is a routine occurrence for women.

Hair loss can also occur as a result of how you handle your hair, though. Among women, regularly tying the hair too tightly with rubber bands, and using hair brushes which are not wide-toothed, can cause hair loss - this is also known as Traction Alopecia. 

Along with old age, genetics can also play a significant role in the loss of our hair - the gene for hair loss can be inherited from the father’s side of the family, or the mother’s side of the family, or both as well.

According to Ayurveda, hair fall occurs due to an imbalance of Pitta energy in the body. Regular hair oiling and head massage with a suitable Ayurvedic oil is one of the most effective hair loss remedies. We recommend adding regular oiling with hair growth oils to your hair care regime.

The most effective hair oiling treatment to prevent hair fall is Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment Oil, enriched with the goodness of Sesame oil, Indian Gooseberry (Amla), Bhringraj, Indigo and Balloon Vine. It’s clinically proven to reduce hair fall by 94 percent, irrespective of the hair fall reason.

How To Control Hair Fall

We hope that reading about all these causes of hair fall has not put you in a gloomy mood! As stated previously, we bring you some of our best advice when it comes to controlling hair fall -

1. Cleansing and Conditioning Your Hair

Firstly, a lot of us - especially men - tend to use soaps for cleansing their scalp and hair, this can be very problematic for the hair and scalp health. Soaps are too harsh and stripping, as are a lot of shampoos. We must use a mild shampoo, one which will not strip our scalp of its natural oils entirely.

Also, simply washing the hair with shampoo will not do. A good conditioner should be applied on 3/4th of the hair (avoiding the scalp) every time you wash your hair. Most conditioners contain Amino acids, which help to nourish and repair the hair and reduce frizz and breakage of hair.

There is no set frequency of hair washing that we can recommend, since it depends on the individual’s hair type and how fast the scalp becomes oily after washing. However, we recommend that you do not wash your hair so frequently that it becomes dry to the point of breakage and frizz.

2. Healthy Diet and Regular Exercise To Prevent Hair Fall

We have mentioned before how nutritional deficiencies can cause hair loss, so you must eat a balanced diet! Make sure you include food items that are rich in Vitamins A, C, D and E, Zinc, B Vitamins, Iron, Biotin, Protein, and Essential Fatty Acids.

You can try adding an iron and multivitamin supplement to your diet if you feel like you are still lacking. When it comes to exercising, at least 20-30 minutes of cardio (running/ skipping rope/cycling) will help make a difference. Exercise helps in balancing out your hormones, helping those who suffer hair loss due to hormonal imbalances.

3. Avoid Harmful Treatments To Prevent Hair Fall

To keep your hair as healthy as possible, avoid any type of chemical treatments that damage the hair or scalp in form. Avoid coloring your hair with chemicals and only use natural dyes. For dying your hair chemically, bleaching is usually required, which is terrible for the health of your hair.

You should also avoid straightening/curling or perming your hair and avoid blow-drying your hair with the ‘Heat - on’ setting. Applying heat to the hair (especially when it is wet) can cause the hair to essentially boil up - leaving it brittle and extremely prone to breakage.

4. Indulge in Nourishing Hair Treatments

When it comes to managing hair fall, there’s no better cure than the centuries-old wisdom for providing extra nourishment to your hair! Hair Oiling is a highly recommended practice in Ayurveda. 

Oiling helps lessen the amount of breakage that occurs while washing the hair. The same goes for deep conditioning hair masks or protein hair masks. Just apply them for a few hours and wash off - and voila, healthy scalp and hair! 

If you do not want the oil in your hair to get into your eyes or on your face, just tie it up in a loose bun and cover it with a shower cap, and you can go about your day just fine!

Best Hair Oils For Hair Fall

Your hair quality is the direct outcome of how you nourish it, agree? I know growing back your lost hair is not a piece of cake, but with the help of certain oils, you can stem your lost hair and give it volume and healthy sheen. Below are some of them.

1. Coconut Oil

You cannot escape knowing about the importance of coconut oil if you live in India. It is one of the most popular hair oils for growth. It is versatile as well as an excellent source for nourishing the skin. Rich in fatty acids, the oil deeply penetrates the hair follicles without evaporating. The carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals in coconut oil also are essential for hair health. 

How is coconut oil useful for hair fall? Coconut oil helps in promoting overall hair growth, making the hair soft and lustrous. It also protects the hair against heat damage, and repairs the weak and brittle hair strands. Rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, we can also use this oil as a conditioner. Coconut oil is suitable for all hair types and best suited to the ones with dull, damaged and dry hair and the ones with slow hair growth. 

If you are aiming for soft hair, it is best to use it regularly over some time. You can also try mixing ingredients like curry leaves, Amla, or Brahmi to the warm oil for best results.

2. Sesame Oil

Sesame oil is one of the most popular oils used for hair growth in Ayurveda. Extracted from the sesame seeds, the oil is excellent for nourishing, conditioning, and promoting hair growth—the antimicrobial properties in sesame oil help in treating scalp infections. Sesame oil, also known as the “Symbol of Immortality” when applied regularly, provides relief from headaches, baldness, greying of hair, and hair fall. 

It suits all hair types and is highly recommended for those who are looking for regrowth of lost hair and want a sleek shine. For best results, heat the oil before applying it.

3. Neem Oil

You might have already heard that neem oil is the best for all your scalp and hair problems. Extracted from the seeds and fruits of the large evergreen Neem tree, this oil is full of antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties as well as fatty acids and Vitamin E. 

Neem oil prevents dandruff and hair lice, conditions and repairs damaged cuticles, reduces redness and irritation caused by eczema, and promotes hair growth. It also helps in preventing hair loss and premature greying of the hair. 

You can mix neem oil with any carrier oil like Coconut oil, Jojoba oil, Almond oil, etc. And if you feel the smell is quite strong, you can also add 1 or 2 drops of any essential oil.

4. Almond Oil

Did you know almond oil has the highest content of natural Vitamin E? It is also rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, proteins and magnesium which helps in reducing hair breakage and promoting hair growth. Along with moisturizing, almond oil also seals in the moisture preventing hair loss and breakage. 

This oil is the best for those who are looking for fast hair growth or those who have dry, damaged, and dull hair. You can directly use almond oil straight from the bottle and can also warm it before use.

5. Brigandi Oil

Brigandi oil is a combination of Bhringraj oil (extracted from the leaves of Bhringraj tree) and a few hair-friendly herbs like Amla, Indigo, Sesame. and Balloon Vines. This oil is an intensive hair treatment that helps in preventing hair loss, scalp irritation, dandruff, and premature greying. Brigandi oil also helps in cooling and soothing the scalp, preventing scalp infections, and conditioning the hair. You can use this oil straight from the bottle or heat it for an enhanced feeling of a therapeutic head massage. This oil is clinically proven to reduce hair fall by 94 percent.

Home Remedies For Hair Fall

Some of us are willing to go that extra mile and put in the extra effort to stop hair fall. If you can make time for it, there are some effective home remedies recommended by Ayurveda that you can use to manage hair thinning and hair loss. 

• Scalp Massage:
  
  Massaging your scalp for a few minutes regularly is said to stimulate the scalp and help in improving the hair thickness. Not to mention how massaging your scalp can aid in reducing stress (one of the biggest reasons for hair fall), the advantage is two-fold!

• Oiling:
  
  We may risk beginning to sound like a broken record at this point, but OIL YOUR HAIR! We recommend Coconut oil and Bringadi Oil in particular - they contain fatty acids that penetrate the hair shaft and reduce protein loss from the hair. Massage it into your scalp and hair and leave it for at least 1-2 hours, then wash it off. You can also use coconut oil as a leave-in conditioner if your hair does not become oily quickly after wash day, it helps improve the luster of the hair.

• Aloe Vera:
  
  Aloe Vera is famous for its soothing and healing properties! We recommend putting pure aloe vera gel on your scalp and hair at least twice a week - it helps calm down an inflamed scalp and reduces dandruff. For those of us who have exceptionally oily scalps, aloe vera helps unblock the hair follicles blocked by excess oil, thus improving the issue of hair loss due to excessively oily scalp!

• Onion Juice:
  
  Some of us despise onions for their smell but keep on reading, and they might end up becoming a favourite of yours! Onion juice has been shown to successfully treat patchy Alopecia Areata by promoting hair growth and improving circulation! It is simple to apply as well - blend a few onions and squeeze out the juice, apply the juice to your scalp and hair, leave it in for 15-20 minutes, then rinse it off and shampoo your hair as usual.

• Amla:
  
  In Ayurveda, Amla is the most preferred ingredient when it comes to maintaining hair health. It contains heaps of essential fatty acids that help in strengthening hair follicles and providing you with the luster you ever need. Rich in vitamin C, potent iron antioxidants, gallic acid, and carotene, Amla can help you in halting premature greying and providing blood circulation around the scalp, which indeed stimulates hair growth.
  
  All you have to do is make a paste by mixing lime juice and amla powder and apply it to your scalp and hair. You can keep it on for about an hour and then rinse it off with normal water.
• Read - Using Amla For Hair - Top 10 Benefits and How To Use It?
  
• Shikakai:
  
  Shikakai remembers our grandmothers as they always insist on using Shikaki for proper hair care, don’t they? It is often considered as a natural alternative to shampoo due to its fantastic hair cleansing properties.
  
  Rich in antioxidants and Vitamin A, C, K and D, Shikakai helps in keeping hair nourished and maintaining hair health. Dry out the Shikakai pods in the sun and then grind them to make powder. Take two tablespoons of this powder and mix it with coconut oil in a jar. Massage your hair with the mixture at least twice a week.
  
  
• Reetha:
  
  Reetha, also known as soapnuts, is another ingredient that has been used in the hair care regime for centuries. It contains saponin, which is responsible for keeping your hair healthy and soft.
  
  You can prepare Reetha shampoo by taking several pieces of soap nuts and Shikakai points and boiling them in half a liter of water. Leave the mixture overnight, then strain it and use it as a shampoo.
  
  
• Fenugreek:
  
  Fenugreek or methi seeds also help in promoting hair growth and repairing hair follicles. It is an excellent ingredient for hair loss and regrowth.
  
  All you have to do is soak methi seeds overnight in water and grind them to a fine paste. Apply the paste all over the scalp and hair. Rinse it off with normal water after about half an hour. For best results, do this thrice a week.
  
  
• Yogurt:
  
  Of course, there is no end to the wonders yogurt can do to your overall health, especially to your hair. Rich in Vitamin B5 and Vitamin D, yogurt helps in promoting hair follicle health and preventing hair fall.
  
  Just mix two tablespoons of yogurt with one tablespoon of honey and lemon and apply it on the scalp and hair roots taking the help of a brush. Leave it on for about half an hour and rinse off with normal water. It is recommended to use this pack once a week.

Best Foods For Healthy Hair Growth

According to Ayurveda, hair fall occurs due to an imbalance of Pitta energy in the body. For balancing Pitta, it is advised to reduce the consumption of hot, spicy, salty, and sour food items. You should also avoid tea and coffee as they activate Pitta. In addition to this, replace oily and fried food items with cooling food items such as cucumbers, leafy vegetables, coriander, cherry, pineapple, yogurt, and potatoes. 

We have stated before that a balanced and nutrient-rich diet can be immensely beneficial when it comes to losing hair due to vitamin deficiencies, and that is why we are presenting to you, some of the best foods for improving hair growth :

• Spinach: Spinach is a healthy green vegetable that’s loaded with beneficial nutrients like folate and vitamins A and C, all of which may promote hair growth. Moreover, spinach is also a great plant-based source of iron, which is essential for hair growth. Iron helps red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body to fuel your metabolism and aid growth and repair. So eat your greens, seriously!

• Eggs: Eggs are a great source of protein and biotin, which are essential for hair health and growth. Eating adequate protein is vital for hair growth because hair follicles are made mostly of protein. Biotin is necessary for the production of a hair protein called keratin, which is why biotin supplements are useful for hair growth.

• Nuts and Seeds: Nuts are packed with nutrients like vitamin E, B vitamins, zinc and essential fatty acids, not to mention how they prove to be an impressive snack at almost any given time! Like nuts, seeds (like sunflower seeds) are rich in vitamin E and other nutrients that may promote hair growth. Some seeds (such as flax and chia seeds) also contain omega-3s, which have been linked to hair growth. 

• Beans: Beans are a great source of protein, iron, zinc, and biotin, which are all essential for optimal hair health. Not just that, beans are highly versatile so there are multiple ways for them to be incorporated into our diets (this one is for all the picky eaters out there!), beans are also comparatively inexpensive to purchase, meaning you will never have to miss out on them!

• Carrots: Carrots, along with other foods that contain beta-carotene (such as sweet potatoes), are something we will always recommend! The body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A, which is linked to good hair health. Vitamin A helps aid sebum production, additionally; it has other factors that may help speed up the rate of hair growth.

Tips For Hair Growth

Having laid down the basics of hair care and controlling hair loss with diet and exercise, we would like to present a few of our tips to ensure proper hair care and reduce hair loss: 

• Cut Down Your Stress!
  Stress can disrupt the process of hair growth and lead to premature aging! Chronic stress is one of the causes of hair loss, so we urge you to try and reduce the amount of stress you are continually putting on yourself! Try regular meditation to help yourself calm down in the mornings and evenings; it will prove to be beneficial in the long run.

• Avoid Hot Showers!
  It is surprising how many people shower with hot water regularly! We understand that it can be the only respite from the cold in the winters, but hot water dehydrates the hair strands and strips the scalp of its natural oils, leading to brittle hair, which is very much in danger of breaking off easily. Try to wash your hair with lukewarm water; if nothing else, it can help immensely.

• Do Not Comb Wet Hair!
  
  Some of us find it easier to untangle our hair right after we have washed them. The problem with this is that our hair is highly prone to breakage when it is wet, so aggressive combing or any kind of heat styling is an absolute no-no! If you are worried that you will not be able to manage your hair once they have dried, try using a very wide-toothed comb to detangle your wet hair gently. You can even use a hair serum or hair oil to help you untangle your hair knots.

• Let Your Hair Down!
  
  You heard us - do NOT put your hair up, especially not in a tight hairstyle! Constantly pulling your hair up into a tight bun or ponytail can cause traction alopecia towards the front of your hairline, where the impact of the pull is the most! We suggest either only wearing hairstyles which allow you to wear your hair down, or if you absolutely must tie up your hair, put it into a loose-low bun. When it comes to hair accessories, avoid using headbands because they push up at your hairline. Also, switch to satin or silk scrunchies instead of using thinner hair ties. Try doing this for some time, and you will notice an improvement in your hair fall problems.

How To Prevent Hair Loss In Men

When compared to women, hair loss in men is more common. According to a study, 85 percent of men have thin hair by the time they reach their 50s. It can be caused by genetic male pattern hair loss, aging, androgenetic Alopecia, or low testosterone levels. If you are concerned about your hair loss, then this section is just for you. Read on to some fantastic tips to protect your hair from baldness.

1. Regularly Wash Your Hair With Mild Shampoo

Cleaning your scalp and hair regularly will lower the risk of infections and dandruff that leads to hair breakage and loss. So, never fail to wash your hair, and using a mild shampoo will help in not going harsh on the scalp and hair.

2. Enrich Your Diet With Protein

Protein intake will help you in promoting hair health, which indeed helps in curbing hair loss. So, make sure you eat lean meats, fish, soy, or other protein-induced foods. 

3. Massage Your Scalp With Essential Oils

If you are experiencing hair loss for quite some time, then it is a must for you to massage your scalp with essential oils. Massaging your hair with a suitable essential oil helps your hair follicles in remaining active and promotes hair growth. Just add 1 or 2 drops of essential oil to any kind of carrier oil and massage your scalp for a couple of minutes every day.

Read - 12 Essential Oils For Hair That Work Wonders

4. Avoid Brushing Wet Hair

Did you know, hair is in its weakest state when it is wet? So, always avoid brushing your hair when it is wet to decrease the chances of hair loss. If you have to, then make sure you are using a wide-toothed comb. Also, avoid combing your hair too frequently as it can injure your hair and break it. 

5. Keep Yourself Hydrated

Drink at least four to eight glasses of water every day to stay hydrated and promote healthy hair growth as one-quarter of your hair shaft contains water. 

6. Reduce Alcoholic Beverages

Alcohol can reduce hair growth. So, if you are experiencing hair loss, then avoid or lessen your alcohol intake and see the results yourself.

7. Avoid Smoking

Smoking affects the blood circulation to the scalp, which in turn results in hair fall. So, quit smoking to maintain healthy hair.

8. Physical Activity and De-stress

Any kind of physical activity for 30 minutes every day helps in balancing your hormonal levels and reducing stress, which in turn promotes healthy hair. So make sure you either walk, run, swim, or hit the gym every day. You can even do meditation or yoga to de-stress yourself.

9. Keep Your Head Sweat Free

Men with oily hair always experience dandruff during summers as they tend to sweat a lot and increase the chances of hair fall. So, use shampoos that contain aloe vera and neem as they keep the head cool preventing dandruff.

Also, make sure you wear a scarf or bandanna over your hair while wearing a helmet because a helmet can make sweat accumulate in the pores and weaken the hair roots causing hair loss in men.

Conclusion -

With that, we arrive at the end of this article on controlling hair fall by yourself; we would like to emphasize that while these tips work well, if your hair fall issue is not solved or keeps coming back, please consult a Dermatologist or a Trichologist for treatment. Hair is an important feature to maintain in this society, and we are glad to be able to provide advice on what has worked for us and what has not when it comes to our hair. We are optimistic that this advice will provide results in your favor!

Also, if you are looking for safe and organic hair products to treat hair fall and promote hair growth, you can check out the complete hair care range by Kama Ayurveda.

 References: 

• Study Demonstrating Standardized Scalp Massage Results in Increased Hair Thickness by Inducing Stretching Forces to Dermal Papilla Cells in the Subcutaneous Tissue - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4740347/
• Study Examining The Effect of Mineral Oil, Sunflower Oil, and Coconut Oil on Prevention of Hair Damage - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12715094-effect-of-mineral-oil-sunflower-oil-and-coconut-oil-on-prevention-of-hair-damage
• Study On Onion Juice (Allium Cepa L.) As A New Topical Treatment for Alopecia Areata -https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12126069-onion-juice-allium-cepa-l-a-new-topical-treatment-for-alopecia-areata/
• Study On Naturally Occurring Hair Growth Peptide: Water-Soluble Chicken Egg Yolk Peptides Stimulate Hair Growth Through Induction of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Production - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29583066-naturally-occurring-hair-growth-peptide-water-soluble-chicken-egg-yolk-peptides-stimulate-hair-growth-through-induction-of-vascular-endothelial-growth-factor-production
• Study On The Importance Of Vitamin A For Hair Growth- https://www.cidjournal.com/article/0738-081X(88)90077-6/abstract

Whether you’re camouflaging dark spots with a concealer or covering up wrinkles and fine lines with a primer, take heart. All of us have skin issues that we want to treat or hide, don’t we? 

As the body’s protective outer covering, our skin puts up with a lot. Pollution, chemicals, infections, cuts, scrapes, and sunlight keep the skin under constant assault. In addition to that, we have our sweaty gym sessions, late-night parties, stress, etc. further taking a toll on our skin.

What should we do? When it comes to skincare, going back to that nature is the best solution. Does your grandmother’s ever-glowing healthy skin make you aspire for a lasting natural beauty just like hers? We’ve uncovered their secret for you.

Whether it is to cure a suntan, fade dark spots, treat acne, dry skin, or oily skin, our old ladies always have the perfect recipes for all-natural homemade face packs to treat them. This ancient wisdom is passed over generations and has its roots in the oldest science, Ayurveda, that emphasizes the use of natural face packs for healthy glowing skin.

• 

Why Is It Important To Use A Face Pack?

Why do you use a face pack? Well, to some extent, we are all aware that a face pack helps in reducing blemishes and maintaining healthy, youthful skin. But, have you ever tried to find out the exact reason why it’s recommended to use face packs on our face?

Read on to know some of the benefits of making face pack a part of your skincare routine.

• It helps in deep cleansing the skin

No matter what your skin type is, a face pack can instantly brighten up our face by cleansing it from within. Using a face pack daily can help your skin in getting rid of the excess oil and dirt accumulated not only on the surface of the skin but also from the endodermis. 

Most importantly, a face pack helps in unclogging your pores. It penetrates deep inside the pores and pushes out the dirt to the surface, along with the dead skin cells.

• It helps in relaxing the skin
  
  

A face pack can give you a spa-like treatment as it can relax the skin and keep it calm, just like a good hair oil massage relaxes your mind. Application of the face pack is a healing process that re-energizes and revitalizes the skin while making it look younger.

• It hydrates the skin

We all are well aware that we need to stay hydrated throughout the day to maintain radiant and youthful-looking skin. But did you know a face pack that contains cucumber, potato, strawberry, banana, or the leaves of rosemary or mint can keep your skin hydrated throughout the entire day?

• It slows down the ageing of the skin

Skin suffers the most damage among all the body organs as it comes in direct contact with the burning sun, pollution, and the harsh weather. These factors not only steal away the shine from your skin but also can deeply damage it. When left untreated, your skin will start to sag and develop wrinkles. A face pack that contains a lot of antioxidants helps in fighting the free radicals and dilating blood vessels. By promoting the oxygenated blood circulation, such a face pack enhances your skin health and makes it soft and supple.

• It fights acne and fades blemishes

A face pack prepared from ingredients like Neem leaves or Turmeric can keep acne and blemishes at bay. It fades away acne scars, dark spots and can also even out the skin tone. It helps in treating hyperpigmentation and sunburns as well.

All face packs are effective in reducing the size of enlarged pores, thereby preventing acne caused by dirt, oil, and chemicals getting accumulated inside the enlarged pores.

• It increases the effectiveness of other skincare products

Did you know that a face pack applied regularly can help you get the most of the other skincare products that you use? They help in washing away the dirt, excess oil, and grime, making it ready for the skincare products that follow. It reduces the size of enlarged pores and prevents makeup and other products from clogging the pores. 

Face Packs Based On The Skin Types

We all have different skin types. The product which works wonders on your friend’s skin may not give you the same results. Even Ayurveda recommends using products that are suitable for our skin type. 

Here are three different face packs based on the skin type - dry, oily and normal skin

1. Curd and Gram Flour Face Pack For Dry Skin

Using the Curd and Besan face pack is a fantastic way to nourish your dry skin. The Besan helps in removing all of your dead cells while the Curd deeply moisturizes the skin.

What You Will Need:

• Two tablespoons of Besan
• One tablespoon of Curd
• One teaspoon of Honey
• A dash of Turmeric

What You Have To Do?

Take a glass bowl and mix all the four ingredients to make a smooth paste. Apply evenly all over the face and neck and leave for about 10 minutes. Now rinse it off with cold water. 

Besan and Honey deeply cleanse your skin, Curd helps in moisturizing and turmeric works as an antiseptic which maintains the pH levels of your skin. Therefore, all the ingredients put together can do wonders on dry skin.

Our recommendation - You can also use Kama Ayurveda’s Haldi Chandan Face Pack for dry skin. You can use Pure Rose Water/Pure Mogra Water to prepare the pack. The pack already has turmeric and oatmeal (which works as well as besan for your skin). You can simply add Yogurt as well as Honey to make this pack more beneficial for dry skin. 

2. Lemon And Honey Face Pack For Oily Skin

Lemon is a great ingredient to clean the skin, reduce oil secretion, and eliminate dead skin cells. Honey, with all of its antiseptic and antibacterial properties, helps you avoid pimples and acne by reducing oil secretion. Use this face pack to relieve your skin from excess oil secretion and make it look soft and supple.

What You Will Need:

• Two tablespoons of Lemon juice
• One tablespoon of Honey

What You Have To Do?

Mix Lemon juice and Honey in a bowl and apply the mixture all over the face. Let it dry and rinse it off with lukewarm water. 

Our recommendation - You can also use Kama Ayurveda’s Nimrah Anti-Acne Face Pack to treat excessive oiliness in skin. Use Pure Rose Water to prepare the pack. It is a 100% natural, Ayurvedic treatment for acne, inflammation, scarring, and excess oil. You can use it every day for the best results.

Turmeric And Besan For Normal Skin/Sensitive Skin

As we all know, Turmeric is a natural antiseptic and has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties; it helps in fighting the bacteria and sunburns for sensitive skin (1). Besan is an excellent exfoliant that helps in removing dead cells and deep cleansing the skin. It also helps in maintaining the pH balance of your skin.

What You Will Need:

• One tablespoon Besan
• Half a tablespoon Turmeric powder
• One tablespoon Rose Water

What You Have To Do?

Mix all the three ingredients and make a thick paste. Next, apply it all over the face and neck and leave it for about 15 minutes. Now, rinse it off thoroughly.

Face Packs Based On The Skin Conditions

The list of skin concerns is long! We need to protect our skin from problems ranging from dullness, aging, acne, dark spots, blemishes, etc. But, will you believe us if we tell you that there is a homemade face pack for almost every skin issue that you face? Read on to discover some of the most effective face packs made from natural ingredients.

1. Face Packs For Acne

• Aloe Vera And Turmeric Or Green Tea Face Pack

Aloe vera is excellent for naturally calming the skin and works well to soothe the skin when the acne is very irritated and inflamed. The naturally occurring salicylic acid and sulfur in Aloe Vera is ideal for fighting back acne especially for the folks with oily skin. The Turmeric and Green Tea helps in controlling oily and sensitive skin.

What You Will Need:

• Two spoons of Aloe Vera gel
• One spoon of Turmeric or Green Tea

What You Have To Do?

Blend Aloe Vera and Turmeric or Green Tea to make a smooth paste. Apply it all over the face and rinse it off after 15 to 20 minutes.

• Fenugreek Face Pack

Fenugreek seeds are a popular cooking ingredient with cooling and inflammatory properties. Its antiseptic and antibiotic properties help in healing pimples and skin infections. The fine granules of the seed get deeper into the pores and clear out the excess oil and dirt thus giving you a fresh and clean skin. Fenugreek also helps in getting rid of dark spots and blemishes caused by acne.

What You Will Need:

• Few Fenugreek seeds

What Do You Need To Do?

Soak the seeds overnight and grind them to make a paste. Apply all over the face and rinse after dry.

Our recommended Face Pack For Acne - We recommend Kama Ayurveda’s Nimrah Anti Acne Face Pack. It’s a 100% natural face pack prepared from powerful ingredients like Vetiver, Ashwagandha, Red Sandalwood, Coriander, Lodhra and Liquorice. All these ingredients make this face pack a perfect anti-acne treatment that heals pimples and blackheads, reduces scars, improves skin tone, and repairs inflammation.

Face Packs For Blackheads

Do you find it very painful to remove the blackheads from your skin? We can remove them easily using some homemade DIY face packs. Here are the top two face pack recipes that can lift your blackheads instantly.

• Honey And Milk Mask

Honey and Milk are great lubricants. They pull away dirt from the pores and cleanse the blackheads. The antiseptic, antibacterial, and antioxidant elements of Honey will peel out the blackhead naturally and soothe the affected area. The face pack also adds moisture and shine to the skin.

What You Will Need:

• ¼  cup of Milk
• Two tablespoons of Honey
• Cotton balls

What You Have To Do?

Take a bowl and mix Milk and Honey to get a runny liquid. Apply all over the face using a cotton ball. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse it off with warm water.

• Coriander Leaves and Turmeric Powder Face Pack

Both Coriander Leaves and Turmeric are great for removing blackheads on the skin, especially on the nose. While Coriander is caustic to clean dirt, turmeric pulls out the excess oil in your skin pores. Therefore, this pack helps in shrinking large pores.

What You Will Need:

• Few Coriander leaves
• Two teaspoons of Turmeric Powder

What You Have To Do?

Blend coriander leaves and turmeric to make a smooth paste. Apply this on your face and leave it on for overnight. Rinse it off the next morning with cold water. You can repeat this twice a week for best results.

Our recommended face pack for blackheads - We suggest Nimrah Anti Acne Face Pack blended with Red Sandalwood, Vetiver & Coriander to treat pigmented skin & blackheads. Make a paste with Pure Rose Water and apply to cleansed skin for fifteen minutes. 

Face Packs For Suntan

If you have tanned skin that has gone too far, don’t worry, here are the two best face packs that can remove the suntan.

• Multani Mitti Face Pack

Multani Mitti, also known as Fuller's Earth, is a cosmetic clay that can absorb all the impurities from the pores and enhance the capillary circulation to the skin. It also is a great ingredient to remove all the dead skin cells and tan on the skin. Also, the Tomato juice that we add in this face pack helps in lightening the skin by interrupting the Melanin formation process.

What You Will Need:

• Two tablespoons of Multani Mitti
• Half the teaspoon of Sandalwood Powder
• One tablespoon Tomato juice
• Rosewater

What You Have To Do?

Mix all the above ingredients by adding a little bit of Rose Water to make a fine smooth paste with medium consistency. Now apply the paste all over the face and wash it off after drying. You can also replace tomato juice with Coconut Water. It is recommended to repeat this once or twice a week.

Our recommendation -  You can use Kama Ayurveda’s Suvarna Haldi Chandan Face Pack. It is a 100% natural face pack and is a combination of Multani Mitti with powerful Ayurvedic ingredients like Turmeric, Sandalwood, Orange Peel Powder, Oatmeal, and Rose. Combine it with Lavender Water/Vetiver Water or Aloe Vera for oily skin.

• Orange Or Lemon Peel And Milk Face Pack

Orange Peel or Lemon Peel is rich in Vitamin C and Citric Acid that lighten the skin tone and reduce tanning Milk is best known for moisturizing the skin and making it supple and soft. The lactic acid in it helps in exfoliating the darkened layer of skin cells.

What You Will Need:

• One tablespoon Orange or Lemon Peel Powder
• One tablespoon of Raw Milk

What You Have To Do?

Take the powder of your choice and mix it with milk. Make a smooth paste and apply all over the face. Let it dry for about 10 to 15 minutes and then rinse it off with lukewarm water. We recommend a patch test on your hand and check if it reacts to any allergic conditions.Also, do not apply on irritated skin as it can aggravate the condition. You can use this face pack twice or thrice a week.

Face Packs For Scars and Black Spots

We all know treating acne is difficult, but what’s even harder is treating the scars and dark spots it leaves behind. Well, don’t fret! Here are the two best face pack recipes that help you in fading the dark spots and scars at home quickly.

• Neem Face Pack

Neem is best known for its antiseptic properties. These properties are very effective in removing acne scars and dark spots Neem is a natural alternative to heal your skin from within and reduce hyperpigmentation and scars. Neem oil also helps in reducing acne and breakouts.

What You Will Need:

• Two teaspoons of Neem Powder or Neem Oil
• One tablespoon of Honey
• One teaspoon of Apple Cider Vinegar

What You Have To Do?

Make a paste out of the ingredients and keep it in the refrigerator for a few minutes. Now, when the face pack is cold enough, apply it all over the face. Let it dry for 15 to 20 minutes and rinse it off with lukewarm water. For best results, use it twice a week.

• Aloe Vera Face Pack

Aloe Vera is best known for its medicinal values and healing properties. The aloin, which inhibits the overproduction of melanin in Aloe Vera works wonders for removing dark spots and old scars

What You Will Need:

• Fresh Aloe Vera Gel
• Few drops of Rose Water

What You Have To Do?

Extract fresh Aloe Vera gel and add Rose Water to it. Mix well and apply all over the face. Let it dry and before washing massage for 2 to 3 minutes and then wash it off with water. You can use this every day or at least 3 to 4 times a week.

Face Packs For a Glowing Skin

Glowing skin that too without any makeup sounds a bit impossible, right? Though it seems far fetched, it is possible to have a naturally glowing skin. Try using the following homemade DIY face packs 

• Papaya Face Pack

If you are looking for a face pack that gives you an instant glow, then you should try Papaya face pack. The Papain in Papaya helps in removing dullness, dryness, and removing the excess oil from the face. It also helps in lightening the skin.

What You Need:

• 1/3rd bowl of Papaya
• ½ teaspoon of Sandalwood Powder or Chandan powder
• Rosewater
• ½ teaspoon of Aloe Vera gel

What You Have To Do?

Mash Papaya into a bowl and then add all the other ingredients to it. Now, mix them well and apply the paste all over the face. Let it dry for 15 to 20 minutes and wash it off with normal water. For best results, use this face pack twice or thrice a week

• Lavender Oil Face Pack

A study proved that the application of lavender oil promotes collagen synthesis and wound healing. Therefore, the Lavender oil face pack can help you in making your skin plump and healthy by boosting collagen production.

What You Will Need:

• 3 to 4 drops of Lavender Essential oil
• One teaspoon of Avocado or Jojoba oil

What You Have To Do?

Mix the two ingredients and massage the blend on your face. Leave it on for 20 to 30 minutes. Then, wash your face with lukewarm water. You can apply this three times a week. As oxidized essential oil can cause skin irritation in some people, it is better to do some patch test before using it.

Face Packs For Anti-Ageing

We are all paranoid about premature aging. Once we hit the later 20’s we start looking for products that are available in the market to diminish the signs of aging. But, have you ever tried using a simple homemade face mask? Here are the two best DIY face packs that can help in reducing those fine lines and wrinkles of yours.

• Coconut Oil Face Mask

Coconut oil face masks help in making the skin firm by reducing the fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps in protecting the skin from sun tanning and revives it.

What You Will Need:

• One tablespoon of Coconut oil
• ½ tablespoon of Pomegranate seed oil

What To Have To Do?

Mix both the oils together in a bowl and apply it all over the face and neck. Leave it on for about an hour and wash it off with water. It is recommended to use this mask every day.

• Moringa Oil Face Mask

We all know Moringa oil is known for treating almost every skin issue we have, especially premature aging. The nutrients in it help in sustaining the production of collagen and skin cells as well as elastin (the building blocks of youthful skin). Moringa oil can also treat acne and irritated skin.

What You Will Need:

• A few drops of Moringa Oil

What You Have To Do?

After cleansing your face, take a few drops of Moringa oil and massage gently on the face and neck. You can also use it as a night application.

• Pineapple Face Pack

Pineapple is rich in phytochemicals and micronutrients, which help you in diminishing the first signs of aging. Since it is also rich in Vitamin C, it promotes the optimum production of collagen in the skin, thus reducing the fine lines and wrinkles

What You Will Need:

• A slice of ripe Pineapple

What You Have To Do?

Gently rub Pineapple on the face and leave it on until it dries. Then rinse it off with water. For better results, use it 2 to 3 times a week.

Face Packs for Summers

Summers can get irritating and annoying at times as the skin gets dull due to the scorching heatwaves around. Therefore it is essential to keep our skin hydrated and healthy during summers. Here are two quick, easy, and best summer face packs to try out.

• Watermelon And Cucumber Face Mask

Watermelon face masks are one of the most popular face masks for summer as watermelons and cucumbers are best known for their cooling properties. Given the heavy intensity of heat all around, these ingredients help in bringing back the glow and freshness in your face. 

What You Will Need:

• Two tablespoons of Watermelon juice
• Two tablespoons of Cucumber juice
• One teaspoon of Milk powder
• One teaspoon of Yoghurt

What You Have To Do?

Blend all the ingredients into a smooth paste and apply on the face and neck. Leave it on for about 15 minutes and then wash it off with cold water.

• Banana Face Mask

While most people complain about having oily skin during summers, some people may have dry patches. If you are one among them, then this face pack is just for you. Bananas make your skin look smoother and hydrated. Honey is best known for its moisturizing properties. 

What You Will Need:

• ½ Banana
• One tablespoon of Honey
• 1 ½ tablespoon of Sour Cream

What You Have To Do?

Mash the banana and add the other two ingredients in a bowl. Mix them well to make a smooth paste. Now, apply the paste evenly on your skin and let it dry. Once dried, wash it off with lukewarm water.

Important Note - 

Even though all these recipes involve natural ingredients, it doesn’t mean they are entirely safe for you as you can be allergic to any ingredient. So, it is always best to do a patch test on your hand before actually using them. If at all any ingredient is showing any kind of allergic reactions, immediately stop using it and consult a doctor if it gets serious.

Conclusion -

Going for a facial every time you think your face needs treatment is not only costly but also unhealthy as most salons use chemical products. But now, you know that there’s a better alternative to treat your skin from time to time - using natural face packs.

Flawless skin of your dreams is possible, but it is not an overnight miracle. You will have to pamper yourself with proper skin care and healthy lifestyle choices. Speaking of which, let us conclude with some additional no-nonsense tips that will help you have clear, glowing skin.

• Always wear sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 21 no matter what the climate conditions are. 
• Don’t smoke. If you smoke, the best way to protect the skin is to quit. 
• Eat healthily! Try eating lots and lots of fruits, raw vegetables by avoiding packaged, oily and fast foods.
• Manage your stress levels. Always have a minimum of eight-hour sleep, scale back your to-do list, set reasonable limits and give time for the things you enjoy.
• Treat your skin gently. Don’t forget the CTM (cleansing, toning, and moisturizing). Give yourself small beauty treatments like applying natural face packs.

References:

1. In-House Preparation and Standardization of Herbal Face Pack - https://www.researchgate.net/publication/320900643_In-House_Preparation_and_Standardization_of_Herbal_Face_Pack
2. In-House Preparation and Standardization of Herbal Face Pack - https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/1ca2/5c17343fd28d0dfa868e2abd0919f8e986dd.pdf
3. Clinical efficacy of facial masks containing yogurt - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22152494
4. Medicinal and cosmetic uses of Bee’s Honey – A review - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3611628/
5. Lemon: A Versatile Fruit of Multiple Uses - https://www.researchgate.net/publication/318360553_Lemon_A_Versatile_Fruit_of_Multiple_Uses
6. Effects of Turmeric ( Curcuma longa ) on Skin Health: A Systematic Review of the Clinical Evidence: Effects of Curcuma longa on Skin Health
7. ALOE VERA: A short review - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2763764/
8. Fuller's earth skin benefits - Aromatherapy for Holistic Therapists.
9. Tomato pulp skin lightening - Advanced Materials and Structural Engineering
10. Orange peel face scrub - 28-day Skin Plan: For Clear and Glowing Skin
11. Lemon peel lightens skin - Pharmacognosy: An Indian perspective
12. Milk skin benefits - Health Benefits: From Foods and Spices
13. Milk cream for dry skin - Dinner with Friends
14. Neem on the face - Face to Face with Shiva: Scientific Perspective of a Spiritual Experience
15. Pineapple on the skin - Clear Skin Detox: A Revolutionary Diet to Heal Your Skin from the Inside Out