Neither oily nor dry skin is “better” than the other, rather, each has its own unique characteristics and needs specific care. From a Siddha-Ayurvedic perspective, it’s important to understand that your skin reflects your inner doshas and their balance. When you describe having oily areas like the T-zone and dry patchy spots, it suggests combination skin which may be due to an imbalance between pitta and vata doshas.
Firstly, let’s tackle the issue of combination skin and its underlying imbalance. For your dry patches, associated with vata excess, focus on nourishing and hydrating practices. You can use natural oils known for their vata-pacifying qualities, like sesame or almond oil, applied after cleansing in the morning. For the oily T-zone, connected to increased pitta, keep it clean and use products that don’t overly strip the skin - harsh cleansers can provoke more oil production.
Furthermore, your skin’s overall dehydration isn’t solely about oil; it’s about moisture balance. Hydrate internally by ensuring you get ample fluids, like herbal teas or warm water with a bit of ginger - this enhances agni, your digestive fire, which in turn supports your kotthu (tissues).
Product-wise, steer clear of synthetic ingredients that can aggravate both dryness and oiliness. Look for gentle, plant-based options. Balance your regimen with regular, weekly face masks using ingredients like sandalwood or neem, these are valued in Ayurveda to naturally tone and clarify the skin.
In terms of routine alignment, embrace a twice-daily regime—cleansing, toning, and moisturizing, adjusted for your skin’s current needs rather than its type label. And remember, skincare adjusts with climate and lifestyle changes, Ayurvedic practices promote this adaptability. If you remain unsure, it’s helpful to consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner who can further assess your prakriti and guide you towards a more personalized skincare regimen.
