|| Shree Madhav Smaranam || || Ayurveda Multi Speciality Hospital & Panchkarma Treatment Center || || श्री माधव स्मरणम || || आयुर्वेद एवं पंचकर्म उपचार केंद्र ||
|| Shree Madhav Smaranam || || Ayurveda Multi Speciality Hospital & Panchkarma Treatment Center || || श्री माधव स्मरणम || || आयुर्वेद एवं पंचकर्म उपचार केंद्र ||
|| Shree Madhav Smaranam || || Ayurveda Multi Speciality Hospital & Panchkarma Treatment Center || || श्री माधव स्मरणम || || आयुर्वेद एवं पंचकर्म उपचार केंद्र ||

Why Does Skin Stay Dry Even After Applying Oil or Cream? — A Deep Ayurvedic Understanding


Introduction: A Common Problem That’s Often Misunderstood

Have you ever wondered — Why does your skin feel stretched and dry again just a few hours after applying even the most expensive creams?

This is an extremely common problem in Bhuj, Kutch and across Gujarat. Every day, patients come to me (Dr. Jigar Gor, Ayurveda Expert) saying:

“Doctor, I’ve tried every cream available, even imported products, but nothing works. My skin remains just as dry as before.”

If you feel the same way, this blog is for you.

According to Ayurveda, the problem of Ruksha Twak (dry skin) is not merely an “external deficiency.” It is a cry from deep within the body — a sign of internal imbalance that cannot be solved no matter how many creams you apply, unless you understand the root cause.

Let’s understand this problem deeply through the lens of Ayurveda.

Understanding the Skin: What Does Ayurveda Say?

Twak (Skin) — The Mirror of the Body

In Ayurveda, skin is not considered merely an external covering. Acharya Sushruta wrote:

“Twak Mamsadhatusya Upadhatuhu”
— Sushruta Samhita

Meaning: Twak (skin) is the Upadhatu (secondary tissue) of Mamsa Dhatu (muscle tissue).

In simple terms — when you eat food, it first transforms into Rasa Dhatu (nutrient fluid/plasma), then Rakta (blood), then Mamsa Dhatu (muscle tissue). The nourishment of this Mamsa Dhatu is what gives the skin its glow, softness, and moisture.

The Seven Layers of Skin

According to Ayurveda, the skin has seven layers (Twak Sapta Patal):

LayerSanskrit NameFunction
1AvabhasiniComplexion and radiance
2LohitaInfluence of blood
3ShwetaPigmentation
4TamraProtection from infection
5VediniSensation
6RohiniWound healing
7MamsadharaStability and support

When we apply oil or cream externally, it mainly reaches only the first and second layers. The inner layers must receive nourishment from within.

The Real Causes of Dry Skin: Ayurvedic Analysis

Samprapti (Pathogenesis) — How the Disease Develops

In Ayurveda, to understand any disease, we examine its Samprapti (the process of disease formation). At my clinic MS Ayurved in Bhuj, when I (Dr. Jigar Gor) examine patients, this sequence becomes clearly visible:

       Ruksha Ahara-Vihara (Dry food & lifestyle)
                ↓
       Vata Dosha Vriddhi (Aggravation of Vata)
                ↓
       Agnimandya (Weak digestive fire)
                ↓
       Rasa Dhatu Kshaya (Depletion of nutrient fluid)
                ↓
       Mamsa Dhatu Aposhan (Malnourishment of muscle tissue)
                ↓
       Twak mein Snigdhata Kshaya (Loss of oiliness in skin)
                ↓
       Bahya Snehana Vifal (External oiling becomes ineffective)

Bhrajak Pitta — The Skin’s Own Agni (Fire)

According to Ayurveda, a special type of Pitta resides in the skin — Bhrajak Pitta.

Main Functions of Bhrajak Pitta:

✅ Providing Prabha (natural glow) to the skin
✅ Absorbing externally applied oils and creams
✅ Regulating skin temperature
✅ Maintaining the skin’s immune function

When Bhrajak Pitta becomes weak:

This is exactly why simply changing creams doesn’t solve the problem.

Nidana (Causes): Identifying the Root Factors

In my experience treating patients across Kutch and Gujarat, the main causes of dry skin fall into three categories:

1. Aharaj Nidana (Dietary Causes)

Wrong HabitWhy It’s Harmful
Ruksha Ahara (dry food – biscuits, chips, dry snacks)Increases Vata Dosha
Excess Katu-Tikta Rasa (pungent and bitter tastes)Dries out skin moisture
Deficiency of Ghrita and Taila (ghee and oil)No internal oleation
Irregular meal timingsWeakens Agni (digestive fire)
Drinking excess cold waterAffects digestion
Fast food and processed foodLack of nutrition
Skipping mealsDisturbs metabolic rhythm
Excess tea/coffeeDiuretic effect, causes dehydration

2. Viharaj Nidana (Lifestyle Causes)

These causes become even more significant in dry regions like Bhuj, Kutch:

3. Manasik Nidana (Psychological Causes)

Ayurveda does not separate mind and body:

The Principle of Snehana: This is Essential to Understand

Two Types of Snehana (Oleation)

In Ayurveda, Snehana (oleation therapy) is of two types:

1. Bahya Snehana (External Oleation)

2. Abhyantara Snehana (Internal Oleation)

The Core Principle

“Bahya Snehana is fully effective only when Abhyantara Snehana is adequate.”

This is why people who:

…find their skin remains dry no matter how much cream they apply.

The Classical Reference

“Snigdham Mridu Sthiram Chaiva Twacham Kuryat…”
— Classical Ayurvedic Text

Meaning: Proper Snehana (oleation) makes the skin Snigdha (unctuous), Mridu (soft), and Sthira (stable).

But this happens only when oleation is done both internally and externally.

Body Signals: Recognize These Signs

Beyond Skin — Signs of Rukshata (Dryness) Throughout the Body

If you also have these symptoms, understand that the problem runs deep:

Skin-Related Signs:

In Other Organs:

Digestion-Related:

General Signs:

Understanding According to Your Constitution

Vata Prakriti (Vata Constitution)

Identification:

Suitable Oils:

Special Care:

Pitta Prakriti (Pitta Constitution)

Identification:

Suitable Oils:

Special Care:

Kapha Prakriti (Kapha Constitution)

Identification:

Suitable Oils:

Special Care:

Kutch’s Climate and Skin: A Local Perspective

For those living in Bhuj, Kutch and surrounding areas, some special considerations apply:

Characteristics of Kutch’s Climate:

Special Recommendations for Kutch Residents:

1. Jala Prabandhan (Water Management):

2. Taila Chayan (Oil Selection):

3. Ahara (Diet):

4. Lifestyle Adjustments:

Ayurvedic Chikitsa (Treatment): Dr. Jigar Gor’s Approach

At Shree Madhav Smaranam Ayurveda Clinic, Bhuj, we treat dry skin with a holistic approach:

Pillars of Treatment:

1. Nidana Parivarjana (Removing the Cause)

2. Shodhana Chikitsa (Purification Therapy)

3. Shamana Chikitsa (Palliative Treatment)

4. Bahya Chikitsa (External Treatment)

5. Rasayana Chikitsa (Rejuvenation Therapy)

Home Remedies: Simple Supportive Measures

Internal Remedies:

Pratahkala (Morning):

Bhojana (During Meals):

Ratri (Night):

External Remedies:

Abhyanga (Oil Massage):

Snana (Bathing):

Snana Pashchat (After Bathing):

Ratri (Night-time):

Dinacharya Sudhar (Daily Routine Improvement)

TimeActivityBenefit
Brahma Muhurta (before sunrise)Wake upAligns with natural rhythm
Pratahkala (morning)15-20 minutes Dhupa Sevana (sun exposure)Vitamin D, natural warmth
Throughout dayAdequate Jala Sevana (water intake) — as per thirst, sip by sipHydration
Sandhya Kala (evening)Light Vyayama (exercise) or walkingImproves circulation
Ratri (night)Shayana before 10 PMAllows body repair

Vishesh Gharelu Nuskhe (Special Home Recipes)

1. Ghrita-Dugdha (Ghee-Milk Remedy):

Ingredients: 1 glass Garam Dugdha (warm milk) + 1 tsp Ghrita (ghee)
Time: Before sleep
Benefit: Abhyantara Snehana, improves Nidra (sleep)

2. Tila Taila Abhyanga (Sesame Oil Massage):

Oil: Shuddha Tila Taila (pure sesame oil) — slightly warmed
Time: 15-20 minutes before Snana (bathing)
Method: Head to toe gentle massage
Frequency: Daily or at least 3 times per week

3. For Cracked Heels:

Ingredients: Desi Ghrita + Haridra (turmeric) — make paste
Method: Apply at night, wear cotton socks
Duration: Continue for 2-3 weeks

4. For Lips:

Ingredient: Shuddha Desi Ghrita(Ghee)
Method: Apply 2-3 times during day and before sleep
Alternative: Honey + Ghee mixture

5. For Hair:

Oil: Keshya Hair Care Oil ( Prepared by Dr.Jigar Gor )
Method: Warm oil scalp massage
Timing: 1 hour before washing or overnight
Frequency: 2-3 times per week
Alternative: Pre Shampoo Hair Oil ( By Dr.Jigar Gor )

6. Vata-Shamaka Kashaya (Vata-Pacifying Drink):

Ingredients: Ajwain (carom seeds) + Saunf (fennel) + Jeera (cumin)
Method: Boil 1 tsp mixture in 2 cups water, reduce to 1 cup
Timing: Warm, after meals
Benefit: Improves Agni, pacifies Vata

Pathya-Apathya (Dos and Don’ts)

Pathya — What to Follow

Ahara (Diet):
✅ Snigdha Ahara (unctuous, oily foods)
✅ Ushna Ahara (warm, freshly cooked foods)
✅ Madhura Rasa Pradhana (sweet taste predominant)
✅ Ghrita (ghee) in daily diet
✅ Tila (sesame) in various forms
✅ Dugdha (milk) if suitable
✅ Mausami Phala (seasonal fruits)
✅ Warm soups and stews
✅ Adequate healthy fats

Vihara (Lifestyle):
✅ Niyamita Dinacharya (regular daily routine)
✅ Purna Nidra (adequate sleep) — 7-8 hours
✅ Niyamita Abhyanga (regular oil massage)
✅ Madhyama Vyayama (moderate exercise)
✅ Pratahkala Dhupa (morning sunlight)
✅ Stress management practices
✅ Pranayama (breathing exercises)

Apathya — What to Avoid

Ahara (Diet):
❌ Ati Ruksha Ahara (very dry food)
❌ Vasi Bhojana (stale food)
❌ Adhika Katu-Tikta (excess pungent-bitter)
❌ Shita Jala/Shita Paneya (cold water/cold drinks)
❌ Fast food and processed food
❌ Excess caffeine
❌ Excess raw salads
❌ Skipping meals
❌ Eating while distracted

Vihara (Lifestyle):
❌ Ratri Jagaran (staying up late)
❌ Ati Ushna Jala Snana (very hot water bathing)
❌ Excess time in AC
❌ Complete Dhupa Pariharjana (complete sun avoidance)
❌ Irregular sleep patterns
❌ Excessive travel
❌ Suppressing natural urges

Twak Dekhbhal (Skin Care):
❌ Frequent use of Sabuna (soap)
❌ Chemical-laden products
❌ Vigorous rubbing of skin
❌ Changing cream every week
❌ Using very hot water on face
❌ Over-exfoliation

When to Consult a Doctor?:

Seek Immediate Consultation If:

Vishesh Paristhitiyan (Special Circumstances):

The Connection Between Dry Skin and Other Vata Disorders

Understanding the Bigger Picture

Dry skin rarely exists in isolation. It’s often part of a larger pattern of Vata Vriddhi (Vata aggravation). Common associated conditions include:

Sandhi Vikara (Joint Problems):

Mala Vibandha (Constipation):

Manasika Vikara (Mental Conditions):

Keshgata Vikara (Hair Problems):

If you have multiple symptoms from this list along with dry skin, it strongly indicates a Vata imbalance at the systemic level, requiring comprehensive treatment rather than just topical solutions.

Understanding Ojas and Skin Health

What is Ojas?

In Ayurveda, Ojas is the ultimate essence of all Dhatus (tissues). It represents:

Connection with Skin

When Ojas is adequate:

When Ojas is depleted:

Ways to Enhance Ojas

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why does skin remain dry even after applying cream?

Answer: According to Ayurveda, when Abhyantara Snehana (internal oleation — ghee/oil in diet) is insufficient and Agni (digestion) is weak, externally applied cream cannot be properly absorbed by the skin. The solution requires both internal and external oleation. The skin’s Bhrajak Pitta must be functioning well to “digest” and absorb what you apply externally.

Q2: Which oil is best for dry skin?

Answer: For Vata Prakriti and most dry skin conditions, Tila Taila (sesame oil) is best due to its Ushna (warming), Guru (heavy), and Snigdha (unctuous) qualities that directly counteract Vata. For Pitta Prakriti, Narikela Taila (coconut oil) is better due to its cooling properties. To know your Prakriti, consult an Ayurveda expert.

Q3: Does eating ghee improve skin?

Answer: Yes, Shuddha Desi Ghrita (pure cow’s ghee) is the best source of Abhyantara Snehana. It nourishes Rasa Dhatu which ultimately provides moisture to the skin. Consuming 1-2 teaspoons of ghee daily is beneficial. Ghee also enhances Agni (digestion) and improves the absorption of nutrients. However, quantity should be adjusted based on your Prakriti and digestive capacity.

Q4: How to do Abhyanga for dry skin?

Answer: Perform Abhyanga with Koshna Tila Taila (lukewarm sesame oil) 15-20 minutes before Snana (bathing). Massage the entire body gently using:

Pay special attention to Pada (feet), Kurpara (elbows), and Janu (knees). Then bathe with lukewarm water. Ideally, do this daily or at least 3-4 times per week.

Q5: What special precautions should Bhuj/Kutch residents take for dry skin?

Answer: In Kutch’s dry climate, extra care is necessary:

For local consultation, contact MS Ayurved, Bhuj.

Q6: Is there a connection between dry skin and hair fall?

Answer: Yes, both problems are often linked to the same cause — Vata Vriddhi and Rasa Dhatu Kshaya. When both problems exist together, it indicates a deeper imbalance, and specialist consultation is necessary. Treatment approach would address the root cause benefiting both skin and hair.

Q7: When is Panchakarma necessary for dry skin?

Answer: Panchakarma is recommended when:

Basti Chikitsa (medicated enema) is especially beneficial as it directly addresses Vata Dosha, which is seated in the colon. Snehapana (internal oleation) before Panchakarma helps deeply nourish all tissues. Guidance from a qualified Ayurveda Chikitsak is essential.

Q8: Can dry skin be related to thyroid problems?

Answer: Yes, from a modern perspective, hypothyroidism often causes dry skin. From an Ayurvedic view, thyroid imbalance involves Agni Mandya (weak metabolic fire) which affects Dhatu Poshana (tissue nourishment). Treatment would address the underlying Agni and Dosha imbalance. If you suspect thyroid issues, get tested and seek appropriate treatment.

Q9: How long does it take to see results with Ayurvedic treatment?

Answer: This depends on:

Generally:

Ayurveda works on the root cause, so while it may take longer, results are usually more sustainable.

Q10: Is dry skin hereditary?

Answer: Prakriti (constitutional type) is determined at conception and is influenced by parents. If you have Vata Prakriti, you’re naturally more prone to dryness. However, Prakriti is not disease — it’s tendency. With proper Ahara-Vihara (diet-lifestyle), even Vata Prakriti individuals can maintain healthy, well-moisturized skin. What you do matters more than what you inherit.

Dr. Jigar Gor’s Message

“In Ayurveda, beautiful skin is not created from outside — it is supported from within.”

Working as an Ayurvedic physician in Bhuj, Kutch for more than 18 years, I have observed that the root of most skin problems lies inside the body.

Until we:

…external treatments remain incomplete.

“The skin is a window to your internal health. When you see persistent dryness despite external care, your body is asking you to look within.”

The path of Ayurveda is slower but sustainable. It addresses not just Lakshana (symptoms) but Karana (root cause). When the foundation is strong, external care works beautifully.

I encourage everyone to understand that:

Saransha (Summary)

Key Points:

  1. Ruksha Twak (dry skin) is not merely an external problem — it is a signal of internal imbalance
  2. Nourishment comes from three levels:
    • Agni (digestive fire)
    • Rasa Dhatu (nutrient fluid)
    • Bhrajak Pitta (skin’s metabolic fire)
  3. Two types of Snehana are essential:
    • Bahya (external — oil/cream)
    • Abhyantara (internal — ghee/oil in diet)
  4. Vihara (Lifestyle) is crucial:
    • Niyamita Dinacharya (regular routine)
    • Purna Nidra (adequate sleep)
    • Samyak Ahara (proper diet)
    • Manasik Shanti (mental peace)
  5. Local climate considerations:
    • Kutch’s dry climate requires special care
    • Adapt routines to environment
  6. Holistic approach works best:
    • Address Dosha imbalance
    • Improve Agni
    • Nourish Dhatus
    • Support externally
  7. Be patient:
    • Root cause treatment takes time
    • Results are sustainable
    • Prevention is key

Take the Next Step

If Ruksha Twak (dry skin):

Then understanding the Karana (root cause) deeply is essential.

Ek sahi parimarsh apko sahi disha de sakta hai.
(A proper consultation can give you the right direction.)

Sampark Karen (Contact)

Dr. Jigar Gor

Ayurveda Expert | MS Ayurved

📍 Location: Narayan Complex, Nr.Lohana Samajwadi, Nvavas, MADHAPAR, Bhuj, Kutch, Gujarat, India

📞 Phone: 9724157515

🌐 Website: www.msayurved.com

Consultation Available:

Tagged , , , , , , , ,

Call Us

Ayurveda consultation

Call Us

Ayurveda consultation

Ayurveda is an ancient holistic system of medicine that originated in India. It focuses on promoting balance and harmony in the body, mind, and spirit.

Quick Links

FAQ
About Us
Ayurveda Consultation
Prakruti Analysis
Contact Us

Treatment

Hair care
Skin care
Child Care
Digestive Care
Women Care
Lifestyle Disorders
Bone-Joints-Muscular Problems
Infertility Problems Care
Mental Wellness
Weight Management
Panchkarma & Detoxification
Respiratory Care

Contact Us

Follow Us on

Copyright 2024 © All Right Reserved

Powered By:

  • Hair fall
  • Dandruff
  • Dry Damaged hair
  • Hair supplements
  • Hair fall
  • Dandruff
  • Dry Damaged hair
  • Hair supplements
  • Hair fall
  • Dandruff
  • Dry Damaged hair
  • Hair supplements

Hair fall

Dandruff

Dry Damaged hair

Hair supplements

Hair fall

Dandruff

Dry Damaged hair

Hair supplements

Hair fall

Dandruff

Dry Damaged hair

Hair supplements

Hair fall

Dandruff

Dry Damaged hair

Hair supplements

Hair fall

Dandruff

Dry Damaged hair

Hair supplements

Hair fall

Dandruff

Dry Damaged hair

Hair supplements

Hair fall

Dandruff

Dry Damaged hair

Hair supplements

Hair fall

Dandruff

Dry Damaged hair

Hair supplements

Hair fall

Dandruff

Dry Damaged hair

Hair supplements