How The Moon Cycles Impact Our Skin:

Ayurveda holds that natural rhythms influence everything in the universe, including our skin. The moon cycles are one of the most intense natural cycles. The moon, like the tides, vegetation, and our emotions, influences our skin equally. Considering these transitions through an Ayurvedic lens allows us to work with nature rather than against it, caring for our skin with greater consciousness and intent.

Ayurveda considers that our bodies are governed by three energies, or doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. These doshas vary not just with the times of year, but additionally with the moon phases. The moon has a particular connection with both water and sentiment, which are qualities associated with Kapha and Ojas, or our bodily energy and immune strength. The moon's cycle impacts our skin's moisture, sensitivity, and physical luminosity.

Let's get started to explore how each moon phase changes the skin and how you could modify your skincare regimens correspondingly.

New Moon: Time for Rest and Renewal:

During the new moon, the energy is at its lowest. This is a time for inward contemplation and the process of detoxification The skin may feel dull, dehydrated, or tight while the body organically slows down and starts expelling toxins.

Tips:

• Concentrate on detoxification routines. Use a gentle herbal exfoliator involving neem or jojoba.
• To endorse agni (digestive fire), drink warm water with lemon.
• Use anchoring oils, notably sesame or ashwagandha, to maintain equilibrium and moisture content.

Waxing Moon: Build, Nourish, Strengthen:

As the moon waxes as it approaches fullness, Kapha increases, making this a perfect opportunity to bolster Ojas and encourage hydrating. The surface of the skin starts to feel more plump and more receptive to nutrition.

Tips:

• Use renewing herbs such as ashwagandha, shatavari, and brahmi
• Prepare a replenishing face mask with rose, aloe vera, or honey.
• Consume Ojas-boosting foods including dates, almonds, ghee, and warm milk with spices.

Full Moon: Radiance and Sensitivity:

The full moon marks the zenith of lunar energy and profound emotions. During this period, skin appears glossier, but it's also more susceptible to damage. Pitta may rise, generating discomfort, acne, or redness in some individuals.

Tips:

• Use calming herbs like mint, rose water, cucumber, or sandalwood paste.
• Avoid aggressive therapies or prolonged sun exposure. 
• Indulge in unwinding practices like the shirodhara or moonlight bathing.

Waning Moon: Cleanse and Let Go:

As the moon fades, Vata energy begins to ascend. This time frame is ideal for cleansing and lessening the burden - both physically and emotionally. Skin may begin to feel chapped or flaky, particularly in regions with lower temperatures.

Tips:

• Massage of the lymph system (Garshana) with dry brushing or silk gloves
• Utilising warming oils like bala or dashmoola in order to regulate Vata.
•  Encouraging elimination with triphala, intermittent fasting, or digestive teas.

By synchronising your skin care routine with the moon phases, you can improve the relationship between your inner and outside environments. Ayurveda cannot offer a one-size-fits-all answer, but nevertheless it teaches us to pay attention, observe, and react with empathy.

Quick Lunar Skincare Guide:

Your skin is a dynamic representation of the natural world, rather than an independent thing. Tuning in to the moon's cadence provides a traditional Ayurvedic approach to beauty and harmony. So, the next time you notice an alteration in how you look or state of mind, glance skyward. The moon may simply be whispering what your skin already knows.