As we experience winter, we look at your skin and how the season has a distinct influence on the human body. Ayurveda recognizes that each season affects the balance of the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) within the body. Everyone has a degree of all three of these with one or two usually dominating. Here's how Ayurveda views the changes in the body and skin during the winter months:
Increase in Vata Dosha: Winter is predominantly characterized by a further increase in the Vata dosha. Vata is associated with qualities like cold, dryness, lightness, and mobility. These qualities become more pronounced during the winter season, impacting both the body and skin.
Dry Skin: Due to the cold and dry nature of winter, Vata dominance can lead to dry skin. The skin may become rough, flaky, and prone to irritation. Moisture loss is a common issue during this time.
Increased Sensitivity: The cold and windy conditions can make the skin more sensitive, causing it to react to environmental factors more readily. Skin may be prone to redness and inflammation.
Chapped Lips: Dry and cold weather can lead to chapped lips which can be very uncomfortable.
Dull Complexion: We might notice our complexion appear dull and lifeless due to the lack of moisture and natural oils in the skin.
Vulnerability to Skin Conditions: Existing skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis may worsen during winter due to the heightened Vata influence.
What can we do to help balance the Vata during winter and soothe dry sensitive skin?
Empasis on Hydration: Ayurveda recommends maintaining adequate hydration during the winter season. This includes drinking warm water (with lemon) and herbal teas to keep the body and skin well-hydrated from within.
Oil Massage: Regular self-massage with warm, nourishing oils like sesame or almond can help to combat dryness, soothe the skin, and support the nervous system. Our Wholelistic Body Treatments are perfect for this! You can now book your Abhyanga Treatment with one of us!
Moisturizing Skincare: Using rich, moisturizing skincare products with natural ingredients can help protect the skin's moisture barrier. Ingredients like ghee, ceramides, and herbal creams are often used.
Warm Foods: We recommend consuming warm and nourishing foods during the winter season. These include soups, stews, and herbal teas, which help balance Vata and nourish the skin from the inside. Switch out your cold salad for one made with quinoa, roasted veggies and beans.
Avoid Harsh Exfoliation: During the winter, it's best to avoid harsh exfoliation or treatments that may strip the skin of its natural oils. Gentle exfoliation and hydrating masks can help with dead skin cell removal. This is why we don’t recommend chemical peels anymore and focus instead of plant-based enzyme exfoliation.
Protective Clothing: Wearing appropriate clothing, like scarves and hats, can protect the skin from the cold and wind, preventing excessive dryness and sensitivity.
Infrared Saunas: The healing and warming effects of infrared saunas can help to soothe the body while encouraging detox through sweating. This helps to stimulate the functions of the body that are responsible for removing metabolic waste and keeping everything in flow.
There is a beauty in the stillness and hibernation of winter. If left imbalanced it can lead to dry, sensitive, and potentially problematic skin. To maintain healthy skin in winter, it's essential to focus on hydration, nourishment, and gentle care to restore balance to the body and skin.
We hope you are enjoying the beauty of the season and look forward to seeing you soon!