In the world of Ayurveda, everybody has a mind-body type called a dosha. Depending on how the different worldly elements of earth, space, fire, air, and water come together, your dosha will either be Vata, Pitta, or Kapha.
And what constitutes which of these doshas you are? Well, if the dominant energies at the time of your birth were air and space you will be Vata, if they were fire and water then you will be Pitta, and if they were water and earth then you will be Kapha. The dosha that we have can affect every element of our lives, from the way that we think through to the Ayurvedic skincare practices we should adopt.
Our particular dosha greatly affects our skin, and the Vata, Kapha, and Pitta skin types each have very different properties. By knowing which Ayurvedic skin type you have and adopting Ayurveda skincare routines, it is possible to look after your skin in such a way that pre-empts any skin problems that might ordinarily occur. And, of course, there are some people who might have a skin type that is the combination of two different doshas also.
The Vata skin type – tends to be thin and dry, and will easily crack. Vata skin will typically wrinkle more easily than other Ayurvedic skin types and needs to be nourished and moisturised with regularity in order to avoid premature ageing.
Learn more about Vata skin care
The Pitta skin type – can be easily aggravated by the sun or by certain types of foods. Foods that encourage skin cooling should be consumed. If Pitta skin becomes imbalanced, the result can be rashes or acne.
Learn more about Pitta skin care
The Kapha skin type – When Kapha skin is in balance, it can be perfectly soft and smooth, but when it is imbalanced due to food consumption or lifestyle choices, the skin can become oily and prone to blackheads.
Learn more about Kapha skin care