Written by Ruchika Sehgal

Medically reviewed by Dr Godmi Tresa

Updated on February 13, 2025

9 Ayurvedic Oils for Facial Yoga : Benefits, How to Use, When to Use ?

Ayurvedic facial oils, blending ancient wisdom and modern wellness, epitomize Ayurveda's holistic skincare. Infused with botanical extracts like neem, turmeric, and ashwagandha, these oils embody nature's healing touch and promote muscle relaxation, rejuvenation, and emotional balance. These oils follow Ayurvedic principles, considering individual doshas for personalized skincare. Through facial yoga, they harmonize mind, body, and spirit, reflecting Ayurveda's timeless commitment to holistic well-being. Their holistic application extends to mental well-being, fostering relaxation and aligning with Ayurveda's goal of enhancing the overall quality of life through internal and external balance. This results in radiant skin and profound overall health and vitality.

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Benefits of Ayurvedic Oils in Face Yoga

As mentioned above, ayurvedic oils for skin have numerous benefits regarding face yoga. Adding ayurvedic oils to face yoga aids in balancing the doshas, contributing to skin harmony. Using ayurvedic oils for facial massage during face yoga promotes blood circulation and nutrient absorption and gives the face its radiant glow. These oils promote skin elasticity, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.

Now, the secret to that youthful complexion is out in the open. Are you ready to take advantage of the opportunity? 

9 Types of Ayurvedic Oils for Face Yoga

Is it a one-person show, or are there any types of ayurvedic oils?

There are different types of Ayurvedic Oils for the face. Read on to know more.

1. KUMKUMADI OIL

Origin: It is originally derived from herbs like saffron, sandalwood, manjistha, turmeric and other botanical extracts.  

Key Characteristics: Kumkumadi Tailam face oil is suitable for all skin types. It is known for promoting radiant skin, helping reduce dark spots and blemishes and providing nourishment, making it a popular choice for facial yoga.

How to Use:

  • After cleaning your face, dampen it with rose water.
  • Take 3-4 drops of kumkumadi tailam on your fingertips and massage until the oil is absorbed into the skin.

When to Use: Preferable during bedtime. It would help if you waited to apply before 2 PM.

Pro-Tip: For the best use, leave it overnight. 

2. LAKSHADI OIL

Origin: Derived from a combination of herbs like Laksha and Ashwagandha in sesame oil, Lakshadi Oil has ancient roots in Ayurvedic traditions.

Key Characteristics: It is a fantastic moisturizer that keeps the skin fresh. This oil has the excellent 

property of plumping severely dry skin. It helps improve the skin's texture by improving collagen growth and healing the dying skin, giving it a healthy glow.

How to Use:

  • Apply it gently on your face and leave for a few minutes before washing.

When to Use: You must use this oil after cleansing your face.

3. HIBISCUS OIL

Origin: Derived from steam distillation of hibiscus flowers 

Benefits: Hibiscus oil, rich in vitamin A and flavonoid antioxidants, rejuvenates skin cells, repairing damage for a radiant and flawless complexion. As it is rich in Vitamin C, tannins and saponins, it boosts collagen synthesis & minimizes wrinkles. Using the oil also helps in promoting a blemish-free appearance.

How to Use:

  • Apply 2-3 drops of oil, diluted in almond oil, on your face and leave for a few minutes before washing it off with a cleanser.

4. COCONUT OIL

Origin: It is made by extracting the oil from raw coconuts or dried coconut kernels.

Key Characteristics: It can moisturize dry skin. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of coconut oil and its components could help treat acne. Coconut oil is an excellent coolant for your face.

How to Use:

  • Before applying on your face, you must follow the cleaning and toning of your face.
  • Then gently massage coconut oil onto your face and neck and leave overnight.

When to Use: You can use it during the day or leave it overnight.

Pro-Tip: If you have oily skin, apply coconut oil and wash after 30 minutes.

5. MANJISHTADI OIL

Origin: This herbal oil is prepared with Manjistha, Yashtimadhu, Chandan, Aloe Vera and other herbs.

Key characteristics: It is suitable for all skin types and gives the skin a natural glow. It rejuvenates the skin cells and tissues, giving you soft and supple skin. It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help reduce acne, skin rashes, and pimples. Manjishtadi oil has a special ability to detoxify the blood through skin absorption.

How to Use:

  • Take oil onto your palm and gently massage your face and neck.
  • Wash it after 20 minutes with a mild cleanser.

Pro-Tip: You must go for steam before washing off for better outcomes.

When to Use: Use 3 times a week for better results.

6. SESAME OIL

Origin: Derived from sesame seeds, Til Taila has ancient roots in Ayurveda and is widely used in traditional practices.

Key Characteristics: Rich in antioxidants, it is believed to rejuvenate the skin, reduce inflammation, and improve overall skin health.

How to Use: This need not be diluted before use.

  • You can apply it on your face directly.
  • Dab it onto the affected area using cotton to apply acne.

When to Use: Apply a thin layer of warm sesame oil 10 minutes before bath.

7. CASTOR OIL

Origin: It is a vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the castor oil plant Ricinus communis.

Key Characteristics: It helps moisturize skin and prevent acne. Its anti-inflammatory properties help ease the pain caused by sunburns.

How to Use: As this oil is very thick, it's advisable to mix it with either olive oil, coconut oil, or almond oil.

  • You can mix it with shea butter.
  • Apply this mix after cleaning the face.
  • You can leave it overnight or wipe it off after one to five minutes.

When to Use: Apply the mixture at night before going to bed.

8. NALPAMARADI OIL

Origin: It comprises a combination of different herbs and oils. It mainly comprises turmeric, sesame, khus (vetiver), and manjistha (Indian madder). These ingredients are carefully processed to extract the compound and then blended to create oil.

Key Characteristics: Because of its skin-brightening properties, its application will help reduce dark spots and lighten the skin, and its antibacterial and anti-inflammation properties help fight acne.

How to Use:

  • Take sufficient oil in your palm.
  • Massage it on your skin.
  • Leave it for 30 minutes before washing it off with a cleanser.

When to Use: For best results, use regularly.

Note: The oil may leave your skin a yellowish shade due to the abundance of turmeric used in its preparation. 

9. KSHEERABALA OIL

Origin: It combines vital ingredients, including Bala (Sida cordifolia) and Ksheera (cow's milk). It is an Ayurvedic medicinal oil with roots in Indian medicine.

Key Characteristics: Regular use rejuvenates and nourishes the skin. Bala means strength. Likewise, the oil helps strengthen and tone facial muscles.

How to Use: Massage it gently onto your skin.

When to Use: For maximum benefits, apply it regularly.

Listed above are 9 Ayurvedic oils for facial yoga, and specifications include how and when to use them. Try them according to your skin type to yield maximum results.

Best Practices for Ayurvedic Oils in Facial Yoga

If you follow these specific tips while practising facial yoga, it will yield better results

1) Choose oil based on your skin type and incorporate herbs accordingly for added benefits.

2) First, cleanse, then exfoliate, followed by warming the oil for proper absorption.

3) Apply upward, focussing on fine lines and other concerned areas.

4) Be regular in your skincare routine for maximum benefits, as consistency is the key.

5) Include a variety of facial exercises, applying oil before the routine.

6) Include gentle massage techniques and read and follow the instructions carefully.

7) Stay hydrated.

8) Consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized advice for skin or health concerns.

Wrapping It Up

Explore the benefits these Ayurvedic oils provide for facial yoga and skin care. These natural options, catering to different skin types, nourish the skin. If massaged gently, they boost circulation. This oil, when applied to targeted areas, enhances overall skin tone. If you regularly follow your skincare routine, you will see positive results. Indulge in self-care through these ancient and traditional remedies and meet a new you beaming with glow.

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Ruchika Sehgal

Meet Ruchika Sehgal, your guide to a balanced life. Educator turned lifestyle and wellness writer, she blends her love for literature, culinary arts, and music into transformative words that inspire healthier, happier living.