If there’s one beauty trend that’s made a startling comeback in the recent past, it must be that of Ayurveda. In India, the Ayurvedic beauty products market, which reached 626 billion rupees in 2022, is expected to witness a sharp incline and grow three times by 2028 with a revenue generation of approximately 1,824 billion rupees. This basically means a whopping compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.3 per cent between 2023 and 2028. And globally the market is poised to expand from 6.50 billion dollars in 2021 to 21.12 billion dollars by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 15.63 per cent between 2021 to 2028. Now those are some promising numbers!
Cherished and appreciated in our ancient texts for centuries, Indian ingredients such as turmeric, saffron, rose and the likes are finally getting the attention that they deserve on a global stage. Beauty brands across the globe have embraced the wisdom of Ayurveda, and thereby Indian beauty ingredients, that thrive on the fundamental policies of being simple, gentle, natural and universally flattering in nature.
As we celebrate this Independence Day from a lens of beauty, we curate a round-up of some of the best Indian skincare ingredients that need to become a part of your beauty vanity.
1. Turmeric
A lot has been said about this kitchen staple that has been a key part of the classic Indian diet forever. Additionally, freshly grounded turmeric, rich in a compound called ‘curcumin’, has also played a pivotal role in the recipes of ubtans, or traditional face masks. What makes turmeric a superfood for your skin is its versatile benefit profile that includes antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. From acne to pigmentation, scars to inflammation, turmeric can come in handy for most of the common skin concerns that you are likely to face.
Tira Recommends: Purearth Turmeric Sand Exfoliant Face Masque, Kora Organics Turmeric Glow Foaming Cleanser, and Dr. Sheth's Haldi & Hyaluronic Acid Sleeping Mask
2. Ashwagandha
Even though Ashwagandha may have garnered an accelerated amount of love and interest during (and after) the pandemic, owing to its immunity-boosting properties, it has always been an influential ingredient in Ayurveda. The ingredient is an adaptogen by nature, which means it can be consumed orally or topically to alleviate psychological as well as your skin’s stress, and its utilisation to boost wellness and promote longevity dates back to as early as 6000 BC. Today, Ashwagandha is found in a plethora of facial creams, serums, toners and essences. When applied topically, the adaptogenic ingredient aids with inflammation, fatigue, dullness, early signs of ageing, acne and congestion experienced by the skin.
Tira Recommends: Forest Essentials Soundarya Radiance Cream with 24K Gold SPF 25, Kama Ayurveda Nimrah Anti-Acne Face Pack, and Sadhev Ayurvedic Hydrating Body Wash With Ashwagandha, Oudh & Pomegranate
3. Rosewater
Ain’t nothing as instantly gratifying as spritzing on some rose water, right? That’s how mighty rosewater’s soothing, calming and refreshing powers are. Dubbed ‘Gulaab Jal’, rosewater contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can pacify red, acne-prone, inflamed and irritated skin by inducing a burst of cool and calm in the skin. Besides tackling puffiness, blemishes and dullness, rosewater can also tone, hydrate and purify the skin. That you can use it as a pick-me-up for your skin at any given point in the day is an added bonus.
Tira Recommends: Sadhev Rose Water Toner, Plum Bulgarian Valley Rose Water Toner and St. Ives Refreshing Rose Water & Aloe Vera Shower Gel
4. Saffron
Touted as one of the most expensive and precious spices, saffron can prove to be a miraculous ingredient for your skin. Rich in antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and pharmacological properties, saffron is a rich source of antioxidants like vitamin C and carotenoids like crocetin, making it a powerhouse of brightening and glow-enhancing properties. Additionally, it also offers some exfoliative, depigmenting and de-stressing effect, that results in the fading of dark spots and unveiling of lustrous, radiant and healthy-looking skin.
Tira Recommends: Tvachamrit Saffron Lotion, Neemli Naturals Hibiscus & Saffron Night Cream and BiE Halo Uplifting & Soothing Face Oil
5. Ghee
There’s no reason to skimp over ghee for your skin unless you have extremely oily or acne-prone skin. Loaded with the richest fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E and K, ghee is your one-stop solution to achieve supple, deeply nourished and healthy skin. From chapped lips to flaking skin, trust ghee to come in handy in any and every event of dryness. Additionally, ghee also provides the skin with pigmentation reduction, bestowing an even-toned skin all over.
Tira Recommends: ENN About To Glow 100 Times Washed Ghee Moisturizer and SoulTree Hibiscus & Honey with Organic Ghee & Cold Pressed Oils Lip Balm