Ayurveda Skin Dosha ABCs

A few people have asked me what I think their dosha is, and while I'm certainly no Ayurvedic expert, I thought I'd do some research and include a quick rundown for my lovely readers here! There are 3 main doshas which really relate to your whole self and body (digestion, overall health, personality and wellbeing, etc.) but I'm going to focus on skincare for this post.

~ Vatta (Air and Ether) 

~ Pitta (Fire and Water)

~ Kapha (Earth and Water)

• Vatta - typically characterized by dry/flaky and thinner skin, this skin type is more prone to lines/wrinkles but on the plus side, less so for acne. Hydration and antioxidants for the skin are essential. In addition to a good oil (oils higher in oleic acid are better for Vatta like avocado, almond and argan) or serum, pick yourself up a hydrosol (recommendations here and here) to keep your skin extra happy throughout the day.
• Pitta - pitta, c'est moi. Prone to inflammation, irritation, redness, etc., pitta skin is easily sunburned and often suffers from rosacea. Pitta peeps often have moles and freckles and skin in general is on the high maintenance side. Pitta skin needs to be calmed and cooled and is the opposite of Vatta. Seabuckthorn, rosehip and maracuja oils are my pick for this dosha.
• Kapha - generally oily and break-out prone. Skin is usually thicker and has larger pores. Key for Kapha is using anti-bacterial essential oils that are skin friendly (tea tree and rosemary are good ones) and moisturizing with sesame and Neem oil. Oil is not your enemy! But harsh cleansers and products that strip your skin are. The good news is, typically Kapha types are slower to show signs of aging, hurrah!

You can also be a combination of doshas, so if you want a more in-depth look, Google "ayurveda dosha quiz" and you'll find a few online that will guide you through what your individual type is. 

Next up, I'll discuss an Ayurvedic skin care line that I like. Stay tuned!