Why does your skin look tired

While a beautiful skin is desired by all, it is not so simple to achieve. The skin is continually shedding, if internal and external factors are not in harmony, your complexion might look tired. 

Signs of premature aging and tiredness may appear as fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin.

How can you tell? Well, the skin will appear dull with lack of luster. We can generally start to see it in individuals in their 30’s and 40’s. Also, lifestyle, stress and lack of a daily care routine promote dry and tired skin. Some of the signs will reflect the appearance of fine lines, uneven skin, pigmentation, the skin feels dry, dehydrated, and has lost its natural glow.

Here are some causes that will result in tired skin:

1. Aging- The concept of aging is described in Ayurveda as Rasayana. As we get older our skin loses its elasticity and moisture due to the normal aging process. We believe it’s important to nurture and support the skin’s natural healthy state by using the appropriate Rasayana herbal oils.  
   
   
2. Stress- During high levels of stress, your body sends most of the blood to other areas of the body promoting muscle tension, contraction, and general discomfort. This can result in a tired complexion. 
   
   
3. Lack of sleep- While sleeping, the skin renews itself because the levels of melatonin are increased and the hormone level in charge of stress is lower (cortisol) therefore signs of fatigue will appear. 
   
   
4. Unhealthy lifestyle- Unhealthy diet and lifestyle such as wrong combination of foods, processed foods, leftovers, canned food, and frozen food that are high in sugar and salt will promote dull skin. As well as alcohol intake and lack of exercise. If your skin is not exfoliated and detoxified, whatever nutrient you apply on it cannot fully penetrate. Therefore, cleansing and nourishing your skin properly and regularly is a must.
   
   
5. Dehydration externally and internally- Drinking clean and enough water promotes hydration and improves moisture. Studies have shown a direct connection between water intake and quality of the skin. In the same manner, the application of natural oils will promote nourishment and elasticity.
   
   
6. Accumulation of impurities- Your skin sheds skin cells especially during the night, their accumulation inhibits your complexion from reflecting vitality and light. 
   
   
7. Dryness- Dry skin tends to be more affected especially during the fall and winter times when there is more dryness and the atmosphere is cold.
   
   
8. Free radicals- Pollution doesn’t only affect your internal organs but also the largest organ in the body; your skin, giving rise to free radicals. These harmful particles can have an impact at all levels damaging the skin collagen and promoting tired skin.
   
   
9. Smoking- Studies have proven tobacco promotes premature aging by diminishing oxygenation and increasing the oxidation process of the skin.

Ayurveda establishes that healthy and radiant skin reflects an individual's overall health. Ayurvedic herbs and oils help purify your skin and balance the tridoshas (humors) in your body. Doshas are primarily responsible for causing skin ailments and many other disorders.

According to Ayurveda, one of the primary factors responsible for skin disorders is overseeing the specific needs of your body type (Vata, Pitta and Kapha). 

Although all five elements are present in every person, the ratio of these are different for each individual determining our unique mind-body characteristics. This ratio determines whether your constitution is predominantly Vata, Pitta or Kapha.

Vata dosha: Individuals with a dominant Vata dosha (space and air) exhibit dry and light qualities. They will usually have a light and slim frame, with dry, frizzy, and thin hair and nails. They have more delicate skin which tends to be dry, and the appearance of fine lines is more obvious.

If you have Vata skin type, then your daily goal should be nourishment and hydration. Drink adequate daily amounts of water. Follow a diet of unctuous, warm, cooked, fresh foods. Add more heating spices to your diet.

 
Pitta dosha: Individuals with a dominant Pitta dosha (fire and water) have very sensitive skin. They are more susceptible to freckles, age spots, rosacea, rashes, and wrinkles due to sun exposure.  

If you have a pitta skin type, always choose natural oils with no artificial fragrance nor preservatives.  Avoid extensive direct sun exposure and eat regular meals containing sweet and juicy fruits and fresh vegetables. Avoid spicy, hot, oily foods and alcohol. Add more cooling oils and spices to your diet.

 
Kapha dosha: Individuals with a dominant Kapha dosha (earth and water) usually age slower than Vata and Pitta predominat since they have thicker skin, which prevents the onset of premature aging. Their primary challenge is a tendency to accumulate toxicity. This may impact the supply of essential nutrients to the skin, causing dull and oily skin with visible pores.

If you have a Kapha skin type, then you should detoxify your skin regularly. Exercising will help with the detox process as well as helping with heaviness and lethargy in the body.  Eat foods lighter in nature. Avoid sweet, cold, and heavy foods and add heating spices to your diet.