Yes, neem paste can be beneficial for the skin and often used in addressing breakouts due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Applying neem paste to the face daily, however, needs a bit of consideration regarding your skin type and dosha balance. In Siddha-Ayurveda, neem is generally considered cooling and can help reduce the ‘pitta’ dosha imbalance often linked to skin eruptions. Yet, daily application might indeed be too strong for some, especially if there’s already an imbalance or if redness occurs.
If you notice redness after using neem paste, it may indicate that your skin finds it a bit too astringent, or pitta levels are already quite low. If your skin feels dry, it’s a sign your ‘vata’ dosha might becoming aggravated. In case of such sensitivity, it’s wise to be cautious with frequency. Instead of daily use, try applying neem paste every other day or even twice a week. This could provide the benefits without over-drying or irritating your skin.
When applying neem paste, mixing it with a bit of rose water or aloe vera gel can help balance its drying effect and soothe the skin. It’s also important to follow up with a light, hydrating moisturizer to restore any lost moisture, especially in the colder, dryer months or climates. Keep an eye out for any consistent irritation, and if it persists, it’ll be best to pause and consider other remedies or consult a skilled practitioner in person. Definetly discontinue if redness worsens or doesn’t go away.
Long-term, integrating neem into a broader skincare routine might be most beneficial. It’s often helpful to explore balance across all aspects of lifestyle, including diet, rest, and stress management, which can also affect skin health.
