Vivek Sahni, Co-founder, and CEO, Kama Ayurveda
Ayurveda is a science, a well-documented system of medicine quickly gaining relevance in modern times. The foundation of Ayurveda is the understanding of how to attain harmony between the panchabhootas – elements of earth, air, fire, water and ether – that our body is made up of. The more we are in touch with our elements, the closer we are to nature. When we come closer to nature, we tap into its infinite strengths to gain health and peace.
Ayurveda has become of increasing importance in the modern world where everything is rushed and fast-paced. People are looking to live a balanced holistic life, a broad view of health – physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Ayurvedic treatments focus on returning the body to a state of equilibrium, rather than to simply treat the way an imbalance manifests. It suggests that every individual should follow a routine, diet and lifestyle that aligns their internal energies. In the context of beauty, Ayurveda concentrates on inner beauty, including emotional state, purity and positivity, which translates into outer radiance.
Due to the internet and social media, men in India today are well aware that skincare and beauty are not just feminine words. Men too are conscious of how they look because of their interaction with people, either face to face or virtually. Skincare, haircare, grooming and scents are of much interest to the modern male consumer. They are also highly receptive to terms like natural, organic and Ayurvedic. So, it’s very natural that brands are changing with their evolving audience and producing cleaner, safer products for them to choose from. Since Ayurveda draws from nature, its offerings are authentic and pure.
Kama Ayurveda is born from Ayurvedic treatments for beauty skincare. We bring together ancient wisdom with modern science, to produce effective and balanced formulations. Our Himalayan Deodar range, for instance, for men is made from purifying cedarwood and other gentle, natural ingredients. Extremely cleansing, hydrating and soothing, it allows men to take a proactive approach to beauty and grooming.
Often used in Ayurvedic recipes for skincare is deodar, one of the first ever essential oils to be distilled. The earthy fragrance and soothing properties of deodar bring calmness and raise spirits during stressful workdays.
Ayurveda recommends deodar extract to rejuvenate dull, dehydrated skin, a common consequence of heavy travelling and work. It effectively cleans out dirt from clogged pores, leaving the skin smooth and even-toned. Because of its balancing effect on dry and oily skin, it is suitable for all skin types.
Another ingredient is vetiver, famously known as khus in India, which is rich in antioxidants. Recognised in Ayurveda for pacifying the aggravated pitta dosha, vetiver soothes disruptions in the body and induces SaumanasyaJanana – tranquillity, placidity and mind-body union. Not only is it great for the skin, but also makes for a healthy, refreshing drink. This ‘Nectar of Summer’ is intensely cooling and lightens all health issues relating to heat and summer.
Use vetiver formulations to settle shaving-induced breakouts and redness and rejuvenate the skin cells. A gentle, yet invigorating ingredient, it is perfect for skin that is tired and stressed from our fast-paced lifestyle. Incorporate skincare products such as vetiver water, a perfect on-the-go uplifting toner, to keep hydrated.
Less celebrated, yet essential in Ayurvedic scriptures are aloe vera, sesame oil and sandalwood. Each with its own benefits, these ingredients nourish and revitalise the skin. Aloe vera soothes burning sensation and stinging, reduces blemishes and restores the youthful appearance of skin. Rich in vitamin E, sesame oil is deeply hydrating, leaving smoother skin. Sandalwood too, just like vetiver induces SaumanasyaJanana, and is gentle and cooling for acne-prone skin.
Men don’t need to look beyond Indian science and brands to find a sustainable solution for their skincare needs. Ayurvedic principles of healing, focus on replenishment and restoration, inside and out. Following an Ayurvedic routine would bring balance and equilibrium and rid them of any health issues they suffer from. The results have ‘long-lasting’ efficacy because they are not surface level improvements, they treat the cause. Kama Ayurveda that is deeply rooted in these principles, promises holistic skincare through its treatments.
