Many people are searching for a chemical-free solution to their skin and hair care, whether because of allergies or just because they prefer the great results from using minimally processed cosmetics. With so many products on the market that claim to work wonders, it can be hard to know where to start.
Ayurvedic beauty treatments have been in use for thousands of years as part of a holistic approach to self care. They are simple to use and to accommodate in your regular beauty regimen. Here are some of the best products to try for hair and skin that feels and looks its very best.
- Shilajit pure resin powder
Shilajit is a mineral deposit that is made up of ancient organic matter. This is carefully extracted from the rocks of the Himalayan and Tibetan mountains, and exposed to the sun to evaporate excess water and aid the refining process. It’s packed with over 85 different types of minerals, and contains a powerful antioxidant known as fulvic acid.
Fulvic acid has inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to slow down the effects of ageing. This is because it contains free radicals and it may help to repair cellular damage, resulting in firmer and more youthful looking skin.
- Turmeric powder
Turmeric powder has been used both as a cooking ingredient and a beauty product for thousands of years. It is obtained from the rhizomes (underground stems) of the curcuma longa, an upright herb that is mainly grown in northern India.
It is a delicious seasoning for soups, stews, or curries, adding a rich peppery and nutty flavour and a distinctive bright orange-yellow colour. Various studies have reported that turmeric could have anticancer and anit-bacerial properties, and may be effective for counteracting the ageing process.
In ancient India, women would add turmeric infusions to their bathwater because it is thought to improve skin tone. It can be directly applied to the skin when mixed with a little water to form a paste, and it is thought that it helps to heal wounds and calm down angry inflamed skin. It may be particularly beneficial as an acne treatment.
- Neem powder
The neem tree is native to central Asia, and has been used for its medicinal properties for thousands of years, especially for antifungal and antibacterial purposes and to promote a clear and healthy looking complexion.
The leaves in particular contain many powerful compounds that do not lose any intensity in powdered form. The powder can be mixed with rose water to make a face mask that may be an effective treatment for blemishes and acne.
Neem powder is also often mixed with henna or oils to treat an irritated scalp that is prone to dandruff, and to encourage healthy hair growth.
- Amla berry powder
The Amla berry is known as the ‘Indian gooseberry’ and is regarded as a superfood because of its unusually high density of vitamins and minerals. It can also be used externally as a beauty treatment as it is rich in vitamin C.
This can boost collagen production and make skin look more refreshed. It is also thought to reduce hair loss and add shine when added to shampoos and conditioners.