With the ‘vocal for local’ movement gaining ground in every aspect, it only seems right to talk about one of India’s most revered alternative medicine system, Ayurveda. Ayurveda as a whole focuses on prioritising your holistic well-being that is, taking care of your mind and body to achieve a balance. From shirodhara (hot oil treatments for hair) to skincare potions and concoctions to breathe life into dull skin, there’s something for every beauty concern you may have. Beauty brands in India and globally are tapping into this 5000-year-old ancient practice and bringing the benefits of it to your vanity. If you’re looking to incorporate ayurvedic rituals into your daily routine, here are five beauty brands we love…
Purearth
Pune-based Purearth houses a wide range of skin, hair, and bodycare products using ayurvedic techniques. Think of a Gua Sha-like face tool called Kwasha made using kansa metal that draws out impurities, toxins, and pitta from the skin and a face mist made from wild Himalayan roses that pacifies heat in the body. The founder of the brand, Kavita Khosa has been an avid ayurveda practitioner for over 20 years and holds diplomas in Advanced Organic Cosmetic Science, Ayurveda, and Vedanta so it’s safe to say that you’re in very capable hands, should you give Purearth products a go.
Shesha Ayurveda
At Shesha Ayurveda, the team has one goal: To create 100 per cent natural products by employing techniques mentioned in ancient ayurvedic scriptures. Their products are formulated in Kerala and are of the highest quality. There's everything from finely milled anti-inflammatory kasturi manjal (wild turmeric) powder to Neeli Bringadi hair oil that contains nourishing ingredients like indigo, amla, and coconut milk.
Ranavat
Ranavat’s products take inspiration from the ancient beauty traditions of Indian royalty. If you’re keen on investing in great quality haircare products, look no further than the brand’s Mighty Majesty hair serum. It is made using Michelle Ranavat’s ayurvedic family recipe and if her tresses are any proof, it does what it claims–nourishes and strengthens hair.
Just Herbs
Founded in Chandigarh in 2013 by mother-son duo Dr Neena and Arush Chopra, Just Herbs is just that—pure ayurvedic herb and plant extracts that work. These natural and organic products are PETA-certified and handmade to heal and nourish your skin. If you’re a minimal make-up lover, you have to try the brand’s Lip & Cheek Tints. These buttery formulas melt into skin, giving it a natural glow.
Kama Ayurveda
One of India’s most loved luxe beauty labels, Kama Ayurveda is known for its limited but effective hair and skin potions. The brand works with the centuries-old Arya Vaidya Pharmacy in Tamil Nadu to deliver the goodness of ayurvedic beauty concoctions in modern formulas. It's Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment Oil lines the shelves of beauty enthusiasts all over the world and you’ll find its products stocked in most luxury hotels in India.
Vedix
Ever tried customised skincare products? If not, you’ll be tempted when you hear of how Vedix works. The brand will create an ayurvedic profile for you based on your skin, hair, and overall health. The experts will then put together a hair and skincare routine for you to balance your doshas and achieve your beauty goals. Based on the results, your regime will be tweaked.