A REVIEW ARTICLE ON AYURVEDIC COSMETOLOGY

*Vd. Aishwarya A. Nagare, Vd. Somadatta Kulkarni and Kayachikits

ABSTRACT

The word “Cosmetics” means any substance used to clean, improve or change the complexion of skin, hair, nails, teeth or eyes. It includes beauty preparations (perfume, skin cream, nail polish, lipstick or contact lens) and grooming aids (soap, shampoo, shaving cream and deodorant). Skin is the basic element of the external appearance. External beauty has gained a lot of attention & demand in ancient as well as in today‟s era. The increased demand of beautification is evident by number of beauty contests, beauty centres, marketing of various cosmetic items like creams, lotions, powder etc. Along with increased demand of beautification, the problems are also increasing due to changed life style excessive use of cosmetics and polluted atmosphere. Ayurveda emphasizes on both external and internal beauty. Ayurveda cosmetology started from mother‟s womb which is determined at the time of “Shukra-Shonita Samyoga”. Kanti, Chhaya, Varna, Prabha are beautifully explained and depends on Matrija, Pitrija, Rasaja and Satmayaja Bhavas with predominance of Mahabhuta. Matruja Bhava contributes soft parts like skin and Pitruja Bhava contributes hard parts like hair, nail and teeth. A proper balance among Tridosha, Saptadhatu, Dinacharya, Ratricharya and Ritucharya help to maintain skin health and youthfulness. Charak Samhita and Sushruta Samhita are important Ayurveda classics giving detailed description of abundant Rasayana herbs with several formulations for management of beauty, health, fitness and age-related conditions. The person of 35–55 age group and even teens are highly curious to beauty concern. Ayurvedic cosmeceuticals are always ahead for their safe and holistic action. Based on the vast and established knowledge of Ayurveda, herbal extracts, fruit extracts and essential oils are now being effectively used as medicines, food supplements and personal care that actively protect the skin, hair, nail and prevent premature aging. Thus, India could emerge as a major contributor to the global cosmetic industry.

Keywords: Cosmetics, Dinacharya, Rasayana.