Chances are once a week, your night-time routine looks like this …… cleanse/remove makeup, tone, exfoliate and smooth on your favourite face mask.
Devotees of beauty love their mask’s rejuvenation benefits, their all-in TLC factor and their relaxation effect. Like a mini facial at home, to leave skin all dewy and supple, masks are the power plus remedy for skin issues with one to suit every skin type … mature, dry, sensitive or oily.
Masks come in all forms today .. sheet masks, clay masks, mud masks, peel off masks, overnight masks …. masks to clarify, to nourish, to repair, to firm .… you get the picture.
The concept of applying face masks is nothing new, in fact, their origins stretch way, way back, thanks to our goddesses of youth and beauty.
Beauty lovers in Egypt used clay for their masks. One of the most famous of beauty pioneers, Cleopatra, applied a mask of dead sea mud to draw out impurities and maintain her complexion and egg whites to tighten and give her skin a youthful glow.
In ancient Rome, beauty notables used oils and honey and moved to basil juice, vinegar, goose fat, snail ashes and other rather bizarre ingredients, all thought to possess healing properties.
In India, the origin of the mask is believed to date back some 5,000 years. It was those embracing the holistic lifestyle of Ayurveda, who created face and body masks called ‘Ubtan’, which historians consider as one of the first cosmetic products.
Ubtan mask ingredients did change with the seasons, however, they always included fresh herbs, plants like aloe vera, roots such as turmeric and also flowers. Prepared according to skin type to improve the skin’s appearance they also served and contributed to skin health.
These masks then became the ritual choice for women before religious ceremonies, festivals and weddings.
Yang Guifei, from the Tang Dynasty, known as one of the four ancient beauties of China, mixed water with ground minerals like pearl, rare jadeite, tea leaves, ginger root and lotus flower with natural rose water for a brightening effect. Mung beans, crushed tea, mint leaves and rice water were used to reduce wrinkles and dark circles.
In ancient Rome, beauty notables used oils and honey and moved to basil juice, vinegar, goose fat, snail ashes and other rather bizarre ingredients, all thought to possess healing properties.
European woman in Medieval times worked hard and resorted to wild and risky combinations and methods, to maintain their porcelain complexions. These included applying leeches to their faces and concoctions prepared with calf or hare blood to reduce dark patches and freckles.
Women vying for the ‘fairest complexion in the land’ in Victorian England used lead and vinegar, with disastrous results and ruthless skin issues.
In earliest South America, avocadoes were used to keep skin soft and supple and in Africa palm oil for a fair complexion.
In 1875, Madame Helen Rowley of Ohio in the USA created and patented her Toilet Mask, soft and flexible and made of pliable rubber. She designed it to be worn during sleeping hours to beautify, bleach and preserve the complexion.
In search of the perfect beauty mask, many women followed Madame Rowley with their own creations.
What stands out and remains to this day is the all-Ayurvedic, Ubtan. And, there’s more to share with you.
Some background:
In Ayurveda, ‘lepam’ means the application of herbal pastes which are called ‘kalka’ and ‘mukha’ means face. So, in essence, it’s the application of a herbal paste to the face.
Traditionally, some herbal pastes are used both internally (medicinally) and externally, ie for the body or the face.
Our Masks are prepared according to tradition, a holistic, authentic approach and formulated to time tested methods, steeped in the ancient Ayurvedic practice. They feature only natural and organically grown ingredients to improve the health and balance of the skin and leave it glowing.
We have a large selection of herbal masks which are in very fine powder form and ready-made masks. Both feature different combinations of minutely ground and/or crushed herbs, flowers, grains and seeds to address specific skin conditions, skin types and skin issues, ie oily, pigmented, dry, anti-ageing.
The Masks in powder form are designed to be freshly mixed (at time of use/treatment) with water, milk or yoghurt, applied to the face, neck and decollete and are incorporated into a salon facial or spa treatment. They include Thermo-Herbal Face Lift, Enzime, Skin Rejuvenator and Veg Peel.
Our ready-made Masks, for more convenient at-home use, are also suited to specific skin types, conditions and skin issues. These Masks can be used alone or mixed with fruits or vegetables.
Here are just a few.
Mango Butter Face Mask, for drier and pigmented complexions, is like a smoothie for the face. Hydrating and nourishing, the key ingredient of Mango rich in enzymes and high in vitamins C and E soothes, nurtures and leaves the skin supple. Added Sacred Lotus Seeds deeply hydrate and take care of dry, flaky patches in addition to soothing Honey to boost elasticity, Indian Barberry and Conch Shell. It can be used alone or ‘go traditional’ and add finely grated potato, cucumber or carrot.
Treating acne and blemishes, the Clove Acne Mask keeps breakouts at bay, its deep cleansing properties draw out impurities while minimising irritations, regulating oil production and balancing oilier conditions. Clove has powerful antiseptic qualities and helps heal breakouts. On the menu for this mask is Ashwaghanda Root for its astringent and rejuvenative properties.
Returning a verve to the skin, our Pearl Mask contains finely ground Pearl Ash known to strengthen cell structure, address pigmentation issues, lighten tone and refine skin texture. It’s rich in calcium and valuable minerals and also helps minimise pores, revive lack lustre skin, reduce redness and address lines and wrinkles. In addition, it contains antioxidant and rich Jamun Fruit, a great remedy for scarring, blemishes and dark spots, Sandalwood and Wheatgerm, a rich source of Vitamin E and cooling Lotus. Its dual action of lightening and cooling ingredients makes this the ideal mask for sun related pigmentation.
Now you have a run-down and some background on the fascinating Ubtan (masks) traditional to Ayurveda.
Something more to share with you and that’s the care of your ready to go masks. After using, be sure to secure the cap and store in a cool, dry place. Should it get a little dry, we have an easy fix. To keep it moist and extend its life, add a little rosewater or food grade aloe juice and mix well, it will bounce back and be a breeze to apply.
Strawberries are a super food with a place in our skincare routines and our diet
Did you know that Strawberries are not fruits or berries but belong to the Rose family.
These heart-shaped lovelies are packed with vitamins like C, B9 and K, antioxidants known as polyphenols, manganese, fibre and potassium.
We all love to eat them fresh, delicious in smoothies and yoghurt however, strawberries are pretty awesome for the body and the skin.
Being a source of vitamin C, strawberries are a well-recognised immunity booster and an essential for skin health, B9 (or folate) is crucial for cell function and normal tissue growth and potassium is involved in many key body functions including regulating blood pressure.
When it comes to the skin, strawberries get serious.
The Vitamin C in strawberries helps improve skin elasticity and resilience, brighten dulling skin and overall boost radiance.
They contain the amazing Ellagic Acid which guards against collagen destruction, a major cause of lines and wrinkles and also has a photo-protective effect that works to protect against UV damage and keeps the skin looking healthy.
The Folic Acid in strawberries aids in cell regeneration and keeps skin looking youthful and supple.
Plus, they contain Salicylic Acid to help address acne, reduce dry, dusty surface cells and fight excess oil.
Strawberries are a super food with a place in our skincare routines and our diet.
Using a Facial Oil and the benefits of finishing your routine with one
Our Facial Oils are awesome and everyone has their absolute favourite …. Kumkumadhi, Saffron or Black Seed.
Silky textured, rich and luxurious, a Facial Oil is the dessert on the skincare menu. It’s the last step and final product applied in the daily beauty routine.
A Facial Oil locks in moisture, guards against further moisture loss, protects against the outside elements and helps strengthen the skin barrier.
Opposite to what we may believe, a face oil doesn’t actually hydrate, that’s not its job.
A face oil stays on the surface of the skin, it’s job is not to be deeply absorbed. It seals in the benefits of the ingredients already applied before it while it keeps skin soft, balanced, radiant and healthy. Think of it like a Topcoat for nails … a topcoat is the last step in a manicure, it works to protect against fading, chips, seals in colour, gives more staying power and keeps your manicure fresher for longer.
A face oil won’t make the complexion slippery, gooey or all-shiny. And every skin type … sensitive, dry, oily and acne-prone can enjoy its rewards.
Every face oil uses a carrier or base oil like Sesame as it’s safe to use on the skin. Carrier and base oils are from nuts, kernels or seeds and generally high in vitamins and nutrients, making them great for the skin. These include Almond, Apricot Kernel, Argan, Sesame Seed, Avocado, Jojoba and Grapeseed.
All our Face Oils use cold pressed 100% pure Sesame (Sesamum Indicum) Seed Oil as a base. This pale, yellow oil is obtained by pressing the seeds of the flowering plant. A ‘power nut’, the sesame seed is a reservoir of nutrients and bioactive compounds such as essential minerals, think magnesium, calcium and zinc and vitamins such as A, B1 and B2.
The oil from the sesame seed, often called the ‘Queen of Seed Oils’ delivers heaps of valuable properties for the skin including antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory and it’s non-comedogenic, so does not clog pores.
It contains Vitamin E to protect against damage from the environment. It is also rich in the most-wanted essential fatty acids such as oleic acid, to aid in repairing and calming, palmitic acid to help slow and guard against loss of water, stearic acid to soften and linoleic acid to plump the skin.
Sesame Seed Oil also has other wonders of its own … its antibacterial properties make it a great anti-acne weapon, it’s a detoxifier so helps reduce an oily shine and enlarged pores, it has moisturising benefits, thanks to the fatty acids and vitamins, that address crinkles and lines, it brightens, improves circulation and rejuvenates and it can help heal and improve scarring.
Our multi-functional facial oils …. Black Seed, Kumkumadi and Saffron are absorbed readily to protect, promote a glow and keep the skin ultra-smooth. While designed to be used as the final step in the skincare routine, a few drops can also be mixed with your OmVeda moisturising cream or lotion.
Our restorative Black Seed Oil, a lighter textured oil, brings skin back to life and its texture makes it a perfect warmer weather oil. While set in a base of Sesame Seed Oil, it’s boosted with Rice Bran Oil which is overflowing with polysaccharides, proteins, antioxidants, minerals and other phyto-nutrients, 100% natural Black Seed Oil and Jirakadi, a combination of Black Sesame and two varieties of Cumin. It’s a potent formula and the latest in our facial oil line up. Helping to build a healthier skin structure and integrity, it also targets ageing issues, blemishes, dark spots, redness, inflammation and scarring.
Evening out tone, refining texture, minimising under eye circles and calming, our Kumkumadi Oil is powered with 26 precious Ayurvedic herbs to keep skin supple and smooth while also addressing lines. It includes mainstays of Saffron and Turmeric with Madder, beautifying Rose, anti-inflammatory Liquorice, Vetiver to hydrate and the essential oils of Bergamot and Lavender.
Repairing damage, reducing pigmentation, breakouts and lines our Saffron Oil combines Turmeric to help neutralise toxins, strengthen and give the skin a glow. It partners with soothing Aloe Vera, Manjishta to stimulate circulation and carry vital nutrients to the tissues, Lotus, Rose and Indian Rose Chestnut to help ease skin irritations.
Our Facial Oils are truly awesome and we know everyone has their absolute favourite …. Kumkumadhi, Saffron or Black Seed.
When applying yours, take the time to massage in, as the skin can benefit greatly, and it only takes a few extra minutes. Facial massage boosts a healthier skin, increases blood circulation which in turn can help reduce puffiness and boost elasticity. Helping eliminate toxins, encourage cell repair and relax facial muscles, it can tighten muscles as well. It has a refreshing and rejuvenating effect, leaves the skin nourished and supple, improves it overall appearance and gives it a glow.
With all these benefits, adding a Facial Oil to your beauty routine definitely pays off.
Ayurveda and other Indian systems of medicine use metals, but their use is also amply described in Chinese and Egyptian civilization in 2500 B.C.
Derivatives such as shells, metallic, non-metallic and herbals are normally administered as Bhasma. Bhasma, is an ayurvedic metallic/mineral preparation, treated with herbal juices or decoction and exposed for certain quantum of heat which is well known in the Indian subcontinent since 7th century A.D. and widely recommended for the treatment of many disease conditions.
Bhasma means an ash obtained through incineration. The starter material undergoes an elaborate process of purification and this process is followed by the reaction phase, which involves incorporation of some other minerals and/or herbal extracts.
There are various steps in making Bhasma, like maintaining optimum alkalinity for optimum health and neutralizing harmful acids. Bhasma does not get metabolized so does not produce any harmful metabolite, rather, it breaks down heavy metals in the body. Methods included in Bhasma preparation are parpati (thin flake like), rasayoga (chemical interactions between metals, minerals and herbs) and sindora (mixture of herbs and minerals).
Rasa-Shastra (vedic-chemistry) is one of the parts of Ayurveda, which deals with herbo-mineral/metals/non-metals preparations.
Rasayana (immune-modulation and anti-aging quality) and yogavahi (ability to target drugs to the site) are characteristics of a properly made herbo-mineral/metals/non-metals preparation, which is also non-toxic, gently absorbable, adaptable and digestible in the body.
Bhasma is claimed to be biologically produced nano-particles, which are prescribed with several other ayurvedic medicines.
Physical characteristic
Colour (Verna): A specific colour is mentioned for each Bhasma. Bhasma is generally white, pale, or red. The colour of the preparation primarily depends on the parent material.
Lustreless (Nishchandratvam): Bhasma must be lustreless before therapeutic application. For this test, Bhasma is observed under bright sunlight to indicate whether lustre is present or not, if lustre is still present, it indicates further incineration.
Lightness and Fineness (Varitara): Bhasma floats on a stagnant water surface. This test is based on law of surface tension. Properly incinerated Bhasma needs to float on the water surface.
Tactile sensation: Tactile sensation can be absorbed and assimilated in the body without producing any irritation to the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract.
Particle size: Prepared Bhasma should be in powder form. Particle of Bhasma should be extremely fine.
Chemical characteristic
Apunarbhavata: It means incapability to regain original metallic form. For this test Bhasma is mixed with equal quantity of seeds of Abrus precatorius (a flowering plant of the pea family), honey, ghee and borax then sealed in earthen pots and heated with a similar grade of heat. Thereafter particular Bhasma is observed on self-cooling.
Niruttha: Niruttha is to test inability to regain metallic form of metallic Bhasma. In this test Bhasma is mixed with a fixed weight of silver leaf and kept in sealed earthen pots, then a similar grade of heat is applied and after cooling, the weight of silver is taken. Increase in weight of silver leaf indicates improperly prepared Bhasma.
Quality control of Bhasma
Traditionally, the end points of incineration of a metal and its conversion to a Bhasma are evaluated based on the following criteria:
Lustreless: There should be no shine or metallic lustre
Rekhapurnatvam: When a Bhasma is spread between the index finger and thumb and rubbed, it should be so fine as to get easily into the lines and crevices of the fingers and should not be washed out from the lines of the fingers.
Varitaratavam: When a small quantity is spread on cold and still water, it should float on the surface.
Apurnabhava: The Bhasma should not revert to the original state.
Tasteless: Bhasma should be tasteless.
Avami: The Bhasma should not produce nausea on administration.
Steps used to prepare Bhasmas
In Ayurveda, purification is called Shodhana. Shodhana is the process through which the external and internal impurities of metals and minerals are removed.
Process
Elimination of harmful matter from the drug.
Modification of undesirable physical properties of the drug.
Conversion of some of the characteristics of the drug to different stages.
Enhancement of the therapeutic action.
Marana
Marana is a burning process or calcination. The purified metal is placed into a mortar pestle and grounded with the juice of specified plants or kashayas (Ayurvedic drink) for a specified period of time.
Marana methods vary according to the substance to be calcinated. For example, organic substances such as herbs are burnt in open air, whereas inorganic substances such as metals like rajata (silver) are burnt in closed containers. The end product is a Bhasma of substance taken for marana. For example, the end product in the case of silver (rajata) is called as Rajata Bhasma.
Marana of inorganic substances is called puta and the process of marana of herbs in closed freshly made containers is known as puta-paka.
Bhasma obtained by marana from primary metals together with herbs (mulika) are called Mulikamarita Bhasma.
Gold (Swarna) Bhasma
The general preparation of Swarna Bhasma involves the three processes of shodhana, dravana, and marana. The leaves of gold are heated over fire and dipped in Sesamum indicum oil when its red hot and the process is continued seven times separately.
The soft leaves are processed with buttermilk/cow’s urine and the decoction of kulattha (Horse gram), kanji (sour gruel processed from rice Oryza sativa]), and radish (Raphanus sativus). Finally, the leaves are dried by heat. The mixture is ground and the paste obtained is dried under sunlight. The process of grinding and drying under sunlight is repeated 7 to 14 times and the final product is obtained.
Mukta Shouktic Bhasma (Pearl)
Mukta shouktic bhasma (MSB) is a traditional Ayurvedic medicinal preparation. This bio-medicine is synthesized through special calcination of mother of pearl as mentioned in the classical Ayurvedic text. It is found in the Indian Ocean and is a rich source of calcium.
This Bhasma is prepared from the outer covering of the shell (pearl-oyster), and ground with Aloe Vera and Vinegar in sufficient quantity to make a homogeneous paste. The recommended proportion of pearl-oyster and Aloe Vera is 1:4. It shows following pharmacological activity like antacid, anti-pyretic and as a source of calcium.
Recent studies have shown that adding heated oyster shells to the diet of elderly patients increased the bone mineral density of the lumbar spine.
Pearl is known for lightening skin tone naturally. It helps inhibit the tyrosinase enzyme that is responsible for the production of excessive melanin in the body. It actively lightens the dark spots, blemishes and acne marks. Thus, using pearl-infused beauty products help in making the skin tone even.
Purification of Diamonds
Types
Diamond is chiefly categorized into four types, mainly, white, red, yellow and black. According to ayurvedic scriptures, the diamond which is more-or-less round in size and possesses high gloss is termed as male.
The white coloured diamond is mainly suggested for internal administration, whereas the black and red-coloured varieties are significant in case of several health conditions and even prevent premature death of babies.
The yellow-coloured type is mainly used for providing strength.
Composition of Heerak Bhasma
It mainly contains carbon, iron and oxygen. But other essential elements that are present in moderate quantities include sodium, magnesium, potassium, calcium, chromium, aluminium, silicon, phosphorus, and sulphur.
The Diamond concoction is placed in a mortar pestle and ground well until it becomes fine powder.
Placed in a closed container and heated it in the absence of air.
Mixture is allowed to cool down on its own.
The process is repeated 14 times to get pure quality of Heerak Bhasma.
Be it used as a beauty ingredient for enhancing skin health or as a herbal compound for promoting health, diamond is the answer to all.
Diamond ayurvedic formulation with diamond known as Heerak Bhasma is extensively used for correcting the imbalance caused due to the Tridoshas, mainly Vata, Pitta and Kapha. It has corrective and anti – aging properties.
Conclusion
Bhasma contains metals and minerals and herbs. As a result of different stages of processing techniques like shodhana (which involves roasting, with addition of herbal juices and continuous stirring) and marana [which involves bhavana (wet grinding) and puta system of heating], the particle size reduces significantly, which may facilitate absorption and assimilation of the Bhasma into the body’s system rendering it safe.
Red Algae, the crimson-coloured sea beauty, And first-rate ingredient to know about
There are many species of Algae with the main ones and those we recognise most … red, green and brown. Floating around, laying on the sand, growing on rocks, these slippery sea plants brush up against us while we paddle about and swim at the beach.
Algae are very distinct. They are found across our world and play a vital role in the ecosystems and aquatic food chains.
They are tasty and full of goodness and known as sea vegetables. Fish love to eat them and so do we. Added to soups and salads, if you’re a fan of sushi, you’re in luck.
The pretty, crimson-shaded sea beauty, Red Algae, are a rich source of minerals, carbohydrates, protein, enzymes and fibre and a type of phylum Rhodophyta (a specific set of red algae).
So, what makes them red? It’s the phycobilin (water soluble) pigments – phycoerythrin and phycocyanin which have gorgeous red tones.
Red Algae have been used since ancient times as both a food source and for their medicinal properties. A surprising fact is their mineral content has been found to be 20 times more than that of plants grown on land.
A helping hand to health and skin, it’s said they can promote a healthy circulation and lower bad cholesterol levels, thanks to their high levels of dietary fibre. Their plentiful supply of calcium and magnesium is valuable in bone health and also beneficial to the immune system, thyroid function and blood sugar levels. More recently, studies have shown their effectiveness in controlling yeast growth and the virus that causes herpes.
Key nutrients found in Red Algae include Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamins B12, C and E, minerals, a wide range of Carotenoids including Astaxathin and Beta-carotene. Astaxanthin, categorised as a carotenoid, helps to combat and neutralise free radicals by protecting cells against oxidation, which can lead to damage and inflammation. Certain bioactives found in Red Algae, such as Carrageenan, serve to protect the skin from environmental stressors.
Packed with antioxidants, Red Algae help improve skin health and nourish it as well. The potassium and the carbohydrates found in Red Algae can help reduce hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, dry skin conditions and inflammation.
This superhero Algae also boast Vitamin A and C providing anti-microbial and skin brightening effects. Some studies have revealed that as a moisturising compound they are a better humectant than hyaluronic acid. Preserving the skin’s natural moisture levels, Red Algae promote skin smoothness, a healthier skin barrier, collagen production and enhance elasticity.
Hydrating and nurturing dry skin, Red Algae’s pulp-like texture helps them store plenty of water and, when included in skincare products can help draw water to the skin’s surface. Its unique plumping action makes it effective in reducing wrinkles and lines and, as we’ve mentioned, enhance moisture. It’s also helpful in balancing the skin, particularly after using irritating or drying acid facial treatments.
Red Algae also support the skin in another way by providing exceptional protection against UVA and UVB rays.
You can find Red Algae in our Seaweed Gel, a brilliant weekly treat for the eyes that eases puffiness and dryness, addresses dark circles and enlivens tired eyes.
This multi-action gel is specifically formulated to take care of delicate skin, maintaining hydration levels while it smooths, firms up and tackles finer lines and crinkles.
Now here’s the bonus, this pure Ayurvedic formula is a dream come true doing double duty as a quick ‘mini face mask and pick me up’ refreshing, hydrating and brightening the skin. Try it, you’ll love it.
Often referred to as nature’s botox, firming up the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory benefits to soothe and is rich in antioxidants to guard against free radical damage.
Hibiscus contains Anthocyanins, a group of antioxidants that give plants their bright colours (pigments) and are found in deep red, blue and purple fruits and veggies.
Anthocyanins form part of plant-based chemicals called Flavonoids, which are plentiful in the seeds, fruits, shoots, flowers and leaves. Flavonoids do many things for plants like protecting them from environmental stressors, think UV light, the cold and also drought.
In terms of the skin, in skincare and other cosmetic products, Flavonoids offer potent antioxidant defence and can protect against UV rays and have a soothing action.
In Ayurveda, Hibiscus has been used to treat many skin conditions. It is packed with minerals, antioxidants and vitamins to help the skin look more youthful and supple.
Nourishing and very hydrating, Hibiscus is a source of protein, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, zinc, Vitamins A, B6, C, E and K and also contains niacin, thiamine and riboflavin, malic acid citric and alpha hydroxy acids that also aid the skin.
Hibiscus seems to have an endless list of skin benefits from fighting ageing to deep cleansing to treating acne.
Here are just some to learn about:
The Anthocyanins boost elasticity and help skin cells recover from UV damage and other pollutants.
Hibiscus can help dark and age spots and other discolouration, evening out and revamping tone.
It can relieve dry, flaky and itchy skin, helping smooth and soften texture, thanks to its power+ hydrating properties.
It’s a great gentle yet deep cleanser and its natural acids help polish off dead cells and keep pores clear.
The astringent properties in Hibiscus help tighten open pores and its Vitamin C helps firm up the skin.
It helps clear clogged pores and as it has anti-bacterial properties it fights acne causing bacteria helping prevent pimples forming.
Hibiscus makes a great moisturiser and nourisher, locking in moisture in skin tissues.
The anti-inflammatory action of beta carotene in Hibiscus helps relieve inflammation, itching and redness. And, it can also be effective in protecting skin cells against inflammatory damage.
So many benefits to Hibiscus and here’s just one more that you could try at home as an alternative ….
Our Hibiscus Body Cleansing Scrub is gentle enough to use on the face for fabulous results and a glowing complexion. Mix a little of the dry powder with plain organic yoghurt or our Saffron Oil, making into a spreadable paste and apply to the face (avoiding the eye area and lips). Leave for 5 minutes, pat with warm water and work off using circular motions, then rinse away thoroughly and follow with your regular OmVeda day or night cream.
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Our Facial Oils are awesome and everyone has their absolute favourite …. Kumkumadhi, Saffron or Black Seed.
