Seven Layers of Skin in Ayurveda

The skin is a complicated structure with many functions.

It is commonly known that there are three primary layers of skin on a human body:

1.Epidermis: outermost layer of skin that provides a waterproof barrier and creates our skin tone.

2.Dermis: contains tough connective tissue, sweat glands and hair follicles.

3.Hypodermis or Subcutaneous: made up of fat and connective tissues.

According to Acharya Sushruta in Ayurveda the skin has seven distinct layers, each with its own structure and function, providing support to the layers above it.The skin as a whole is able to perform its overall functions effectively when all the layers and healthy and balanced.

SKIN LAYERS:

1.Avabhasini: As the outermost layer, it is the source of complexion and reflects the quality of the Rasa Dhatu (primary nutrient fluids) in our body.  This indicates any inner health or disorder that we may have and whether the body’s physiology as a whole is balanced or imbalanced.  Devoid of its own colour, it reflects the colours of inner layers and the aura of the individual.  When affected, pimples,acne, dandruff etc arise on the body.  It resembles the colour of molton iron.

2.Lohita: This layer supports the outermost layer. It indicates the quality of Rakta Dhatu (blood). If there is ama (impurities) in the blood, it impacts the aura of the outer layer and accentuates sensitivity to the sun. The color of this layer resembles molten iron.

3.Shweta: This is a white layer, and it provides balance to skin color, lightening the darker colors of the inner layers.

4.Tamra: This layer nurtures the upper layers of the skin. It supports the immune system. This is the layer that helps the skin perform its function of being a "barrier." Skin infections reflect an imbalance in this layer. It is copper-colored.

5.Vedini: This fifth layer sensually links the skin to the rest of the body. It is the center for transformation of sensation-feeling of pain, for example.

6.Rohini: This layer supports healing and regeneration. Imbalance in this layer retards healing and the disappearance of scars over time. A balanced diet, rich in nutritional value, supports the rohini layer.

7.Mamsadhara: This innermost layer is the platform for the skin's stability and firmness. When this layer is in balance, the skin looks young and supple. A skin product that has a vayasthapana effect nourishes this layer to help retard the aging process.

Ayurvedic formulations for the skin, both internal and external, seek to combine herbs to positively influence multiple layers of the skin. Turmeric, for example, impacts the avabhasini layer because it is a complexion-enhancer, the lohita layer because it helps purify the blood, the tamra layer, because it is an immunomodulator, and the rohini layer, because it is an anti-inflammatory. That's why turmeric is found in many ayurvedic formulations for the skin.

We can balance our doshas by following proper ahara and Vihara (diet and life style modifications) .This makes our skin healthy.

• Drink plenty of fresh clean water to help eliminate body wastes and toxins. It also keeps constipation at bay.
• Incorporate  fresh fruits and vegetables in major portion of your diet. Dark green and orange vegetables and fruits have antioxidants and also possess cancer fighting properties.
• Lack of sleep causes dark circles and diminishes the glow of your skin. Aim for 7-8 hours to keep the skin healthy and glowing.
• A brisk walk for 45 minutes keeps the skin healthy by improving blood circulation and eliminating toxins. Lack of exercise leads to dull looking skin.
• Avoid any form of tobacco, alcohol or drugs which can make the skin look lifeless and unattractive.
• Find ways to handle stress that can cause dark circles, loss of complexion and cause the skin to age.  Try out yoga, meditation or incorporate some deep relaxation technique into your daily lifestyle.
• And lastly, avoid sweets, chocolate, junk food, deep fried, oily and spicy food.