The epidermis or the surface layer of the skin is covered with microscopic openings, called pores. They allow an escape for harmful toxins in the body and play a crucial role in maintaining its overall health. Further, they are connected to the sweat glands under the skin, which help lower the temperature of the body and the sebaceous glands, which in turn keep the skin lubricated to avoid damage by friction.
Small tight pores can clog up just as much as oily, irritated skin can. The most common causes of clogged pores are excessive touching of the face with unwashed hands, popping pimples, incorrect exfoliation, not taking off makeup completely and other environmental factors.
In Ayurveda, it is believed that every human is made up of one or a combination of the three doshas- Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Read more about Ayurveda on our blog debunking myths and misconceptions about Ayurveda. People with Pitta Prakriti, or an active element of fire, have sensitive, irritable skin and can be triggered by spicy, sour and salty foods. The use of Pitta-balancing products reverses the inflammation, acne and enlarged pores of this skin type. Further, maintaining a diet of cooling, sweet and mild foods results in clear, radiant skin.
Here are a few holistic ayurvedic approaches to balance sebum production, unclog pores, and give you clear, youthful and glowing skin.
Dry Brushing
Dry brushing is an effective way to exfoliate the dead skin cells and excess sebum from the epidermis and can prevent acne and blackheads. It also stimulates and opens up pores on the skin making it easier to sweat and release the toxins from the lymphatic system. Furthermore, dry brushing has a similar relaxing effect on the body as a massage.
Gently brush your way up from your extremities to your heart in straight or circular motions before showering. Then moisturize your skin with a soothing moisturizer like Amrutam’s Vanyamrutam Body Lotion. It is advisable to practice dry brushing first thing in the morning or just before bathing in the evening.
Steaming
Steam can help break down the buildup of grime on the skin and makes it easier to clean. It also opens up the pores, releases trapped sebum, softens blackheads and increases perspiration, consequently enhancing the blood circulation in the body. Steaming allows the gentle release of harmful toxins and acne-causing bacteria from the skin and gives it a natural glow.
Use a gentle cleanser like Amrutam Face Wash to wash away excess dirt on the skin. Bring a bowl of water to a boil, remove it from the heat and lean over it. Ensure that there is at least 12 inches between your face and the water to avoid hazards. Drape a towel over the bowl of water and your head to create a tent and trap the heat. Stay this way for at least 10 minutes before patting your face dry. Further, tone and moisturize your face before continuing your skincare regimen.
Avoid Over Cleansing
The Pitta dosha is characterised by its fiery element. Excessive exfoliation of the Pitta Prakriti skin aggravates it and consequently produces excessive amounts of sebum. This attracts acne, bacteria and blackheads on the T-zone, which marks the forehead and the line from the third eye through the nose, to the chin.
The next time you notice an oily sheen on your face mid-day, resist the urge to exfoliate it. Instead, use a gentle cleanser like Amrutam Face Wash and cold water to wash your face and pat dry with a soft, cotton towel.
Nourish Skin with Facial Oils
Every skin type differs from the other. Learning the needs of your own and supplementing them with the right products is the key to maintaining good skin health. For skins that are prone to getting clogged, dense products may add to the redness and inflammation. Instead, mild, cooling products like pomegranate, clove and neem oil have soothing and hydrating properties. They also unclog pores of grime, blackheads and whiteheads, regulate the production of sebum and brighten and tone the skin.
A simple do-it-yourself toner can be made by letting a handful of neem leaves sit in water overnight. Strain and use with a swab of cotton. You could also try Amrutam’s multi-purpose Neem Oil. Its authentic Ayurvedic recipe soothes, hydrates and heals the skin of irritation, acne and blackheads.
Tone Skin with Facial Masks
In Ayurveda, face masks are used to deep clean and nourish the skin. They unclog pores by reducing the production of sebum and the accumulation of dead skin cells. Further, they exfoliate grime and toxins from the epidermis while they soothe, hydrate and revitalize the skin. Certain face masks also fight acne, hyperpigmentation, blemishes and keep the skin radiant and youthful.
You can make your own face mask with a tablespoon of Multani Mitti (fuller’s earth), a tablespoon of turmeric and two tablespoons of rose water. Let it sit on the face till it is semi-dry, before washing it off with lukewarm water. You could also try Amrutam Face Clean Up with Kesar and Chandan to deep clean your skin and help it glow from within.
Keeping harsh chemical-laden cosmetics away from your skin will only help improve and maintain your youthful glow in the long run. Amrutam’s products use Ayurvedic herbal formulae to make their products. Learn more about us on our website and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for some insightful posts.
