The skin is considered as the mirror of health both external and within. The skin is exposed to pollution, dust and dirt present in the atmosphere.   According to Ayurvedic principles, the external body reflects whatever happens inside and that includes emotions.  

Ayurvedic Skin Care

Ayurveda remedies are of many different approaches to skin care and include herbal creams and facial scrubs for external use, therapeutic facial massages, breathing techniques, hydrotherapy and aromatherapy. The treatments given depending on the constitution and condition of the person are aimed at cleansing, nourishing and restoring the harmony of the body with the nature.  Thus by addressing the internal components of our physical and emotional life we can be assured of the health of the skin. Ayurveda recommends the use of herbal medicines and remedies to protect and improve the fairness of the skin. 

Pigmentation of skin

The major reason of the skin losing its fairness is the imbalance in pitta dosha in the body. The aggravation of Bhrajaka pitta can cause pigmentation or darkening the skin.   Exposure to sun for long duration, irregular eating habits and sleeping habits and consumption of incompatible foods are the main factors that contribute to the aggravation of pitta leading to skin disorders. The skin color can be restored to normal by nourishing and rebuilding healthy tissues and strengthening the immune system to bring back the right dosha balance of the body.

Ayurveda Herbal Remedies for Fair Skin

Saffron has the skin lightening property and helps in improving the complexion of the skin. So it is used in most of the Ayurvedic medicines that are prescribed for fairness.  Apple is useful in giving nourishment to the skin with its rich nutrients. Papaya is know to rejuvenate the skin and makes it young and glowing.  Strawberry is another natural ingredient that improves the skin color.  

Application of a mixture of milk, turmeric and saffron is used as a face pack for achieving a fair and glowing skin.  Turmeric works under the skin to nourish the damaged skin to remove pimples and other blemishes while saffron improves the complexion and renders a fair glow to the skin. This cream gets into the skin quickly and makes it soft and radiant. 

Home Remedies to Protect Fair Skin

1. A facial of fresh herbs like fruits, vegetables and gels once in a week is good for maintaining the skin fairness. Papaya, water melon, sandalwood paste, turmeric, cucumber, carrot and honey etc are effective in improving the skin complexion.

2. A piece of cotton wool dipped in milk can be used to wipe the face to remove the hidden dirt under the skin.

3. Drinking a glass of water to which a spoonful of honey is added on the empty stomach everyday helps in cleansing the impurities in the body.

4. For a clear complexion a facial scrub made with equal quantities of cucumber juice, rose water and lime juice should be applied on the face and should be left overnight and rinsed off in the morning.

5. Milk, curds and butter milk are good for maintaining health.

6. Doing Pranayama, the yogic breathing exercise for about 15 minutes on a daily basis helps in making the skin healthy and glowing.

7. Avoid too much exposure to sunlight.

8. Drink plenty of water to flush out toxic wastes from the body. It also keeps the skin hydrated and supple preserving its elasticity.