Ask Ayurveda

/
/
/
Are there common side effects of using ghee as a moisturizer for face skin?
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7
Connect with Ayurvedic doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
Skin and Hair Disorders
Question #22652
90 days ago
163

Are there common side effects of using ghee as a moisturizer for face skin? - #22652

Sophia

I am really curious about the side effects of ghee on face skin because I started using it as a moisturizer thinking it would be great for my dry patches. At first, I thought it was wonderful, like super hydrating and all, but then I kinda noticed some small breakouts, and I’m not sure if it’s from the ghee or something else. I’ve read a few things online that were saying ghee could cause issues like clogged pores, but some people swear by it, so I’m a bit confused. Are the side effects of ghee on face common? Like, do I need to worry? I just want to find out if it's worth sticking with it or if I should try something else!

300 INR (~3.51 USD)
Question is closed
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous
Get expert answers anytime,
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image

Doctors’ responses

Dear sophia, thank you for opening up and sharing your honest experience. I truly understand how frustrating it feels when something that starts of feeling wonderful begins to cause concern. You are absolutely right to explore this carefully in Ayurveda Ghee is highly respected and used with great care for thousands of years for its nourishing healing and rejuvenating qualities… It is often applied to the skin, suffering from dryness, sensitivity, or inflammation as it else, moisturise Derply and promote skin repair However, not every skin type respond the same way, if you’re not if your skin is naturally oily, acne prone, or as a mix of dryness and breakouts using plain ghee can sometimes clog pores or trap heat , especially when applied to thick or frequently. this could be what’s causing breakout, which you are noticed. Yes in some individuals, mild congestion or pimples can occur when he is not suited to the current state of the skin

A better alternative for your situation might be SHATADHAUTA GHRITA-special preparation, where is washed hundred times with cold water using a traditional Ayurvedic method. This process transform it into a much lighter cooler and more absorbable cream, it’s still nourishes and soothes the skin, but is far less likely to clog pores . It is especially used for sensitive irritated or combination skin. So no need to worry, your skin is just communicating what it needs Ayurveda always teaches us to observe and adjust gently

1815 answered questions
23% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies

Ghee is good to be taken internally As a moisturizer it is not advisable as it’s viscosity is thick For moisturizer use pure virgin coconut oil or virgin olive oil, but avoid if you have the tendency for pimples and acne

1552 answered questions
22% best answers

0 replies

HELLO SOPHIA,

GHEE HAS BECOME QUITE POPULAR AS A NATURAL MOISTURISER, ESPECIALLY IN DIY SKINCARE IT CAN BE WONDERFUL FOR CERTAIN SKIN TYPES, BUT IT ALSO HAS POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS

1) CLOGGED PORES- GHEE IS RICH IN FATTY ACIDS WHICH MEANS IT CAN CLOG PORES, IF ACNE-PRONE OR OILY SKIN TYPES THIS COULD BE WHY. YOURE NOTICING SMALL BREAKOUTS AFTER USING IT

2) BREAKOUTS OR WHITEHEADS- IF SKIN IS COMBINATION OR OILY , GHEE CAN TRAPS BACTERIA, SWEAT, AND DEAD SKIN CELLS LEADING TO PIMPLES OR WHITEHEADS IF USED IN EXCESS

3)GREASY- GHEE DOSENT ABSORD AS QUICKLY AS LIGHTWEIGHT FACIAL OILS SO IT CAN LEAVE A HEAVY OR GREASY FILMS WHICH MAY BBE IRRITATIVE OR ATTRACT DIRT

4) SENSITIVITY - IF GHEE IS NOT WELL PURIFIED OR CONTAINS MILK SOLID IT MAY CAUSE REACTIONS

DRY, FLACKY OR MATURE SKIN OFTEN BENEFIT MOST ESPECIALLY IF USED SPARINGLY AT NIGHT BEST IF GHEE IS PURE, ORGANIC, DO PATCH TEST BEFORE USING IT APPLY ON CLEAN SKIN USE IN TINY AMOUNT TRY USING IT 2 TIMES/WEEK AND GRADUALLY INCREASE

SAFER ALTERNATIVES- JOJOBA OIL ROSEHIP SEED OIL ALOE VERA GEL + DROP OF ALMOND OIL

SO USE WISELY AND GENTLY

THANK YOU

856 answered questions
24% best answers

0 replies

Hello Sophia

* Ghee is used widely in Home made cosmetic or Other Skin External Applications as Softener Rejuvenating Glowing Hydrating effects

GHEE APPLICATION SUITABLES -

* It’s Works Best With Dry Skin Flaky Skin Cracked Skin where it’s Genuinely indicated * Pure Cow Ghee is Best to Rejuvenate has best results * GHEE APPLICATION UNSUITABLE

* Skin like Oily Sensitive with Blocker pores acne tendency Black head White heads get problem with Ghee application daily * Ghee Effect on Acne prone skin - Enhance Sebaceous gland Blockage and allows favorable environment for Infective acnes * Ghee Effects on Blocked Pores - Few persons have Blocked Pores By Ghee gresy effect they get further blocked * Ghee Effects on White heads it Blocks pores and enhance Infection to grow * Dust Heat Exposure on Applied Ghee on Face -its Greasy consistency Dust pratical get adhered and lead skin itching irritation discomfort

ALTERNET OPTIONS

• Kumkumadi Tailam • Nalapamaradi Tailam • Jojoba Oil • Saffron Oil

IT ALWAYS BETTER TO CONSULT AYURVEDIC DOCTOR BEFORE U CHOOSE ANY MEDICINE OR EXTERNAL TREATMENT OR HOME REMEDY

REGARDS

Dr Arun Desai

If you have any questions u can ask me.i will answer to the level of your U have text option here.

480 answered questions
40% best answers

0 replies

Using ghee as a moisturizer for your face can indeed be nourishing, but it’s essential to consider your unique skin type and any possible side effects. Ghee, as per Ayurveda, is considered a “sattvic” substance, which means it has a balancing and purifying effect. However, it can be quite rich and heavy, and this could lead to issues for certain individuals especially if your skin is oily or prone to breakouts.

What you’re experiencing, those small breakouts, might indeed be linked to using ghee. It can be comedogenic for some. Its heavy and oily nature sometimes leads to clogged pores, depending on your skin type. Those with kapha constitution or kapha imbalance - characterized by oily skin - might find ghee a bit too much, as it could aggravate kapha dosha, worsening the oiliness and causing more breakouts.

On the other hand, individuals with vata dosha or vata-pitta conditions, who often exhibit dry, flaky skin might benefit more from ghee’s moisturizing properties. It’s vital to remember that what works for one person doesn’t necessarily work for everyone because Ayurvedic treatment emphasizes individualized care tailored around body constitution or prakriti.

If you decide to continue using it, try applying ghee very sparingly. Use a small amount on a test patch first to see if your skin reacts before applying it all over the face. Monitor how your skin responds over the next day or two. Also, clean your face thoroughly beforehand and don’t layer ghee on top of other products.

For an alternative approach, consider lighter face oils like almond or rosehip oil. These could be less likely to clog pores while still providing moisture. Incorporating a consistent skincare regimen that fits your particular dosha can be very beneficial too. Also, look at your diet, other products you’re using, and lifestyle aspects - they all play into skin health. If breakouts persist, it might be a good idea to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner to get more comprehensive, personalized guidance.

1742 answered questions
27% best answers

0 replies
Speech bubble
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous

600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions

Doctors online

Dr. Ayush Varma
Graduating with an MD in Ayurvedic Medicine from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in 2008, he brings over 15 years of expertise in integrative healthcare. Specializing in complex chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndromes, and digestive health, he uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on root causes. Certified in Panchakarma Therapy and Rasayana (rejuvenation), he is known for combining traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern diagnostics. Actively involved in research, he has contributed to studies on Ayurveda’s role in managing diabetes, stress, and immunity. A sought-after speaker at wellness conferences, he practices at a reputable Ayurvedic wellness center, dedicated to advancing Ayurveda’s role in holistic health and preventive care.
4.95
20 reviews
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
I am Dr Anurag Sharma, done with BAMS and also PGDHCM from IMS BHU, which honestly shaped a lot of how I approach things now in clinic. Working as a physician and also as an anorectal surgeon, I’ve got around 2 to 3 years of solid experience—tho like, every day still teaches me something new. I mainly focus on anorectal care (like piles, fissure, fistula stuff), plus I work with chronic pain cases too. Pain management is something I feel really invested in—seeing someone walk in barely managing and then leave with actual relief, that hits different. I’m not really the fancy talk type, but I try to keep my patients super informed, not just hand out meds n move on. Each case needs a bit of thinking—some need Ksharasutra or minor para surgical stuff, while others are just lifestyle tweaks and herbal meds. I like mixing the Ayurved principles with modern insights when I can, coz both sides got value really. It’s like—knowing when to go gentle and when to be precise. Right now I’m working hard on getting even better with surgical skills, but also want to help people get to me before surgery's the only option. Had few complicated cases where patience n consistency paid off—no shortcuts but yeah, worth it. The whole point for me is to actually listen first, like proper listen. People talk about symptoms but also say what they feel—and that helps in understanding more than any lab report sometimes. I just want to stay grounded in my work, and keep growing while doing what I can to make someone's pain bit less every day.
0 reviews
Dr. Nikitha N
I am an Ayurvedic physician with over 10 years of clinical experience, dedicated to providing authentic and result-oriented Ayurvedic treatments. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to consult and successfully treat more than 4,000 to 5,000 patients suffering from a variety of health concerns. My primary focus has been on managing joint disorders, including conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other degenerative joint diseases. In addition, I specialize in treating women’s health issues such as PCOD, female infertility, menstrual irregularities, and obesity, helping many patients overcome these challenges and achieve improved health naturally. My clinical practice also covers the management of respiratory conditions like asthma, chronic skin diseases such as psoriasis, and metabolic disorders including fatty liver disease. I approach each case by carefully diagnosing the root cause and customizing treatment protocols based on classical Ayurvedic principles. I consistently integrate Panchakarma therapies, herbal formulations, diet corrections, and lifestyle guidance to ensure holistic and sustainable healing. Throughout my journey, I have remained committed to restoring the natural balance of health in my patients, empowering them to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. I strive to deliver treatments that are personalized, effective, and aligned with the rich heritage of Ayurveda.
5
8 reviews
Dr. Atul Painuli
I am Vaidya Atul Painuli, currently working as an Ayurvedic Consultant at Patanjali Chikitsalaya, Delhi... been here a while now. My focus from the start—over 10+ yrs in this field—has been to stay true to what Ayurveda *actually* is, not just surface-level remedies or buzzwords. I’ve treated a wide mix of patients, from people battling chronic illnesses to those just looking to fix their lifestyle before it leads to disease (which is v underrated tbh). During these years, I kinda shaped my practice around the idea that one solution never fits all. Whether it’s diabetes, gut disorders, stress-related problems or hormone issues—everything goes back to the root, the *nidana*. I usually go with classic Ayurvedic meds, but I mix it up with Panchakarma, diet tweaks and daily routine correction, depending on the case. Most of the time, ppl don’t even realize how much their habits are feeding into the problem. It’s not just about herbs or massages... though those are important too. At Patanjali Chikitsalaya, I see patients from literally all walks of life—office-goers, elderly, even young kids sometimes. Everyone’s got something diff going on, which keeps me grounded. What I try to do is not just treat the symptoms but help ppl *see* what’s happening in their bodies and minds. Like Ayurveda says—if your digestion, sleep and emotions are off... then eventually health’s gonna wobble. I don’t promise quick results but I do stay with my patients through the process, adjusting things based on how they respond. That part makes a big difference I think. For me, Ayurveda isn’t a “last resort” kinda thing—it’s a system that can prevent 80% of the lifestyle diseases ppl suffer from today, if done right. My goal? Just to keep doing this in a way that feels real, grounded, and actually helps ppl—not overwhelm them with too much jargon or fear. Just practical, clean, honest healing.
5
47 reviews
Dr. Deepali Goswami
I am Dr. Deepali Goswami, BAMS graduate n working mainly around women's health. Right now m running my own clinic where i treat all kind of gyne problems—from irregular periods to PCOD, white discharge, fertility-related issues, menopausal symptoms n lot more that affects everyday life of females. I usually try to keep the language simple while dealing with patients cause honestly half of them come already confused or like really scared of what's happening inside their body... and if I use too much technical terms it just make it worse. I’ve been practicing in this space for couple of years now—don’t remember the exact month, maybe two or three year back? but anyway, what matters is I’ve seen how many of these problems get ignored till they turn serious. That’s something I feel strongly about. My goal is to help women understand their symptoms early and explain how Ayurveda can help gently but properly, whether it’s hormonal stuff or pain or cycle issues. I use classic Ayurvedic concepts like dosha analysis, ritucharya, n yoni vyapad chikitsa wherever it fits, but sometimes modern lifestyle really needs to be factored in too. Like if someone working night shift, no point telling them to wake up at 5am and do abhyanga daily—it won’t work. I’m practical about it. Anyway, I try my best to create a space where women feel heard. Lot of them said nobody actually explained them what’s going on before. And that’s like the saddest part. I feel my biggest strength is really just listening n tailoring the treatment to her routine, diet n stress pattern. Some cases are harder of course... things don’t always go fast, esp when it’s been neglected for yrs. But then Ayurveda’s not magic. It takes a little time—but results feel real n lasting when done right.
5
12 reviews
Dr. Maitri Bhavesh Kumar Acharya
ChatGPT said: I am Dr. Maitri, currently in my 2nd year of MD in Dravyaguna, and yeah, I run my own Ayurvedic clinic in Ranoli where I’ve been seeing patients for 2 years now. Honestly, what pulled me into this path deeper is how powerful herbs really are—when used right. Not just randomly mixing churnas but actually understanding their rasa, virya, vipaka etc. That’s kinda my zone, where textbook knowledge meets day-to-day case handling. My practice revolves around helping people with PCOD, acne, dandruff, back pain, stiffness in knees or joints that never seem to go away. And I don’t jump to giving a long list of medicines straight away—first I spend time figuring out their prakriti, their habits, food cycle, what triggers what… basically all the small stuff that gets missed. Then comes the plan—herbs (single or compound), some diet reshuffling, and always some lifestyle nudges. Sometimes they’re tiny, like sleep timing. Sometimes big like proper seasonal detox. Being into Dravyaguna helps me get into the depth of herbs more confidently. I don’t just look at the symptom—I think okay what guna will counter this? Should the drug be snigdha, ushna, tikta? Is there a reverse vipaka that’ll hurt the agni? I ask these questions before writing any combo. That’s made a huge diff in outcomes. Like I had this case of chronic urticaria that would flare up every week, and just tweaking the herbs based on sheetala vs ushna nature... helped calm the system in 3 weeks flat. Not magic, just logic. I also work with women who are struggling with hormonal swings, mood, delayed periods or even unexplained breakouts. When hormones go haywire, the skin shows, digestion slows, and mind gets foggy too. I keep my approach full-circle—cleansing, balancing, rejuvenating. No quick fixes, I tell them early on. What I’m hoping to do more of now is make Ayurveda feel practical. Not overwhelming. Just simple tools—ahara, vihara, aushadha—used consistently, with some trust in the body’s own healing. I’m still learning, still refining, but honestly, seeing people feel in control of their health again—that’s what keeps me rooted to this.
5
189 reviews
Dr. Keerthana PV
I am an Ayurvedic doctor who kinda grew into this path naturally—my roots are in Kerala, and I did my internship at VPSV Ayurveda College in Kottakkal, which honestly was one of the most eye-opening stages of my life. That place isn’t just a college, it’s a deep well of real Ayurveda. The kind that’s lived, not just studied. During my time there, I didn’t just observe—I *practiced*. Diagnosing, treating, understanding the patient beyond their symptoms, all that hands-on stuff that textbooks don’t really teach. It’s where I learned the rhythm of classical Kerala Ayurveda, the art of pulse reading, and how Panchakarma ain’t just about detox but more about deep repair. I work closely with patients—always felt more like a guide than just a doctor tbh. Whether it's about fixing a chronic issue or preventing one from happening, I focus on the full picture. I give a lot of attention to diet (pathya), routine, mental clutter, and stress stuff. Counseling on these isn’t an ‘extra’—I see it as a part of healing. And not the preachy kind either, more like what works *for you*, your lifestyle, your space. Also yeah—I’m a certified Smrithi Meditation Consultant from Kottakkal Ayurveda School of Excellence. This kinda allowed me to mix mindfulness with medicine, which I find super important, especially in today’s distracted world. I integrate meditation where needed—some patients need a virechana, some just need to breathe better before they sleep. There’s no one-size-fits-all and I kinda like that part of my job the most. I don’t claim to know it all, but I listen deeply, treat with care, and stay true to the Ayurvedic principles I was trained in. My role feels less about ‘curing’ and more about nudging people back to their natural balance... it’s not quick or flashy, but it feels right.
5
98 reviews
Dr. Isha Bhardwaj
I am someone who kinda learned early that medicine isn’t just about protocols or pills—like, it’s more about people, right? I did my BAMS with proper grounding in both classical Ayurveda and also the basics of modern med, which honestly helped me see both sides better. During internship, I got to work 6 months at Civil Hospital Sonipat—very clinical, very fast paced—and the other 6 at our own Ayurvedic hospital in the college. That mix showed me how blending traditional and integrative care isn't just theory, it actually works with real patients. After that I joined Kbir Wellness, an Ayurvedic aushdhalaya setup, where I dived into Naadi Pariksha—like really deep. It’s weird how much you can tell from pulse if you just listen right?? Doing regular consultations there sharpened my sense of prakriti, vikriti and how doshas show up subtle first. I used classical Ayurvedic texts to shape treatment plans, but always kept the patient’s routine, mental space and capacity in mind. Also I was part of some health camps around Karnal and Panipat—especially in govt schools and remote areas. That part really stays with me. You get to help ppl who dont usually have access to consistent care, and you start valuing simple awareness more than anything. I kinda think prevention should be a bigger focus in Ayurveda, like we keep talking about root cause but don’t always reach people before it gets worse. My whole method is pretty much built around that—root-cause treatment, yes, but also guiding patients on how to live with their body instead of fighting symptoms all the time. I rely a lot on traditional diagnostics like Naadi, but I mix that with practical therapies they can actually follow. No point in giving hard-to-do regimens if someone’s already overwhelmed. I keep it flexible. Most of my plans include dietary changes, natural formulations, lifestyle corrections and sometimes breathwork, daily rhythms and all that. I’m not here to just “treat illness”—what I really aim for is helping someone feel like they’ve got a handle on their own health again. That shift from just surviving to kinda thriving... that’s what I look for in every case.
5
318 reviews
Dr. Ankit Khandelwal
I am practicing Ayurveda since 3 years now, and tbh even though that number looks small on paper—it sure feels way more intense when you think of the daily exposure to different conditions, people, energies. I focus mainly on holistic wellness, with a strong bend toward balancing the body-mind equation. Sometimes ppl ask if I only give herbs but truthfully it’s more about understanding the why behind the illness... not just the what. My work usually involve personalized treatment planning, where I mix classical Ayurvedic concepts—like dosha analysis, ahara-vihara (diet & lifestyle), and detox via Panchakarma—based on how the person is living right now. That dynamic bit matters. One patient with acidity might need total food overhaul. Another? Just better sleep and breath practices. I learnt to not jump into “fixing” unless I’m hearing fully. The past 3 years taught me to observe subtle signs more deeply. Like the small fatigue before full-blown fatigue. I don’t claim big breakthroughs, but I’ve seen lives shift—chronic migraines fading, IBS calming down, periods regularising, skin healing slowly from inside-out. And that feels huge. Every day kinda grows me. Whether it’s a simple consultation, or longer therapies, I try to keep things real, rooted, and not rushed. And yes there’s still lot to explore. But I’m in this for the long run and I want ppl to know that healing doesn’t mean perfection—it just means balance, awareness, and the willingness to start.
0 reviews
Dr. Arun Desai
I am Dr. Arun Desai, working in Ayurveda for 19+ years now, both online and offline. My clinic, Ayur Sanjivani, is at #44 B 1, Opp Adarsh Laundry, beside Tej Residency, near Kavalemath Somwaar Peth Cross in Tilakwadi, Belgaum – bit of a long address but patients seem to find it just fine. Over time I’ve learned that people today want relief fast but still safe and lasting. That’s where I mix the depth of classical Ayurveda with practical tweaks to suit this fast moving lifestyle. I don’t like giving something that just masks a symptom – I want to get to the root cause whenever possible. At the clinic, I try to keep things warm and easy to talk, not a stiff doctor’s table vibe. Whether it’s diagnosis, a Panchakarma session, or simple counseling, I want patients to feel they can ask anything, even small doubts. Education matters too – when someone understands why a certain diet or lifestyle change is needed, they actually follow it better. Treatments may include herbal formulations, diet charts, yoga routines, exercise plans, detox, anti-stress work – all depending on their prakruti and condition. Over the years, I’ve treated people from many walks of life – each case different, which keeps me learning. Some come for joint pain, some for skin problems, others for lifestyle disorders like diabetes or high BP. I still follow authentic Ayurvedic principles but adapt them so they work in today’s reality. And yes, I’m always updating my knowledge, making sure the practice stays ethical and effective, because for me, Ayurveda isn’t just treatment – it’s a way to help someone rebuild their health from inside out.
5
70 reviews
Dr. Surya Bhagwati
I am a Senior Ayurveda Physician with over 28 years of clinical experience dedicated to the principles and practice of authentic Ayurvedic medicine. Throughout my journey, I have had the privilege of treating more than 100,000 patients through both in-person consultations and online platforms. My approach is deeply rooted in classical Ayurvedic diagnostics—such as Nadi Pariksha (pulse examination), Roga-Rogi Pariksha (patient and disease evaluation), and a personalized assessment of prakriti (body constitution). Over the years, I have successfully managed a wide range of health conditions across all age groups—from acute infections and digestive issues to chronic and lifestyle disorders such as arthritis, diabetes, respiratory ailments, hormonal imbalances, and autoimmune conditions. I place strong emphasis on individualized care, combining herbal formulations, Panchakarma detox therapies, and dietary and lifestyle guidance to ensure long-term healing and disease prevention. My extensive experience also includes addressing complex, chronic illnesses that require a deep understanding of both the pathology and the patient’s overall constitution. I have worked with patients who had previously struggled with little success in other systems of medicine, and have guided many toward sustainable recovery and improved quality of life. Whether treating elderly patients with degenerative disorders or young adults facing hormonal or metabolic challenges, I strive to offer care that is compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-informed. My goal is to empower patients with Ayurvedic wisdom so they can take an active role in their healing journey. I continue to remain updated with the evolving landscape of integrative health and value the importance of patient education, ethical practice, and consistent follow-up. For me, Ayurveda is not just a profession, but a lifelong commitment to restoring balance and promoting well-being, one patient at a time.
5
325 reviews

Latest reviews

Leo
7 hours ago
Thanks for the detailed reply. Your clear and reassuring explanation really helped calm our nerves and point us in the right direction.
Thanks for the detailed reply. Your clear and reassuring explanation really helped calm our nerves and point us in the right direction.
Owen
23 hours ago
Really appreciate the swift answer! It's nice to know we should consult an ayurvedic doctor nearby for more info. Thanks for the help!
Really appreciate the swift answer! It's nice to know we should consult an ayurvedic doctor nearby for more info. Thanks for the help!
Christian
23 hours ago
Really appreciate the straightforward advice. It felt comforting to know there’s potential help with Ayurveda, will surely look into it.
Really appreciate the straightforward advice. It felt comforting to know there’s potential help with Ayurveda, will surely look into it.
James
23 hours ago
Thanks so much for the advice. It's a relief to have a clear idea about the next steps. Really appreciate the help!
Thanks so much for the advice. It's a relief to have a clear idea about the next steps. Really appreciate the help!