In Ayurveda, dry skin, or Ruksha Twak, is often attributed to an imbalance in the Vata dosha, which governs qualities of dryness, roughness, and coolness. When Vata becomes aggravated, it reduces the moisture and natural oil content of the skin, leading to flakiness, rough texture, and sometimes itching. Ayurveda focuses on hydrating and nourishing the skin from within, using oils, a Vata-pacifying diet, and specific herbs that help maintain moisture balance.

• Vata Dosha Aggravation:
  • Vata's inherent qualities of dryness and roughness become excessive due to factors like cold weather, dehydration, and irregular eating habits.
• Poor Hydration:
  • Inadequate water intake can result in dryness, affecting both the outer skin layer and deeper tissues.
• Dietary Factors:
  • Overconsumption of dry, cold, or rough foods like crackers, salads, and raw vegetables worsens dryness.
• Environmental Conditions:
  • Exposure to cold, dry air and excessive wind can dry out the skin’s natural oils.
• Aging and Natural Depletion:
  • As we age, the skin naturally loses moisture and elasticity, increasing the likelihood of dryness.

• Dietary Recommendations:

  • Consume warm, moist, and grounding foods like soups, stews, whole grains, and cooked vegetables to balance Vata.
  • Include healthy fats, such as ghee, sesame oil, and olive oil, to nourish and lubricate the skin.
  • Avoid cold and dry foods, and favor spices like ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon, which aid in digestion and enhance moisture.

• Herbal Remedies:

  • Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Known for its rejuvenating properties, Ashwagandha helps in improving skin moisture and texture.
  • Licorice (Yashtimadhu): Helps hydrate and soothes dry skin when taken internally or applied as a paste.
  • Aloe Vera (Kumari): A great hydrator when applied topically, or taken as juice for internal hydration.
  • Bala (Sida cordifolia): Nourishes and strengthens the skin, promoting moisture retention.

• Lifestyle Practices:

  • Apply Abhyanga (oil massage) with warm sesame or almond oil before bathing to lock in moisture and calm Vata.
  • Avoid hot showers, as they strip the skin’s natural oils; use lukewarm water instead.
  • Keep skin covered and avoid exposure to cold, windy conditions whenever possible.

• Panchakarma and Rejuvenation Therapies:

  • Sneha Basti (oil enema) helps in nourishing tissues internally and is effective for chronic dryness caused by Vata imbalance.
  • Nasya therapy (nasal administration of oils) also helps in maintaining moisture balance and improving skin health.