Ayurveda

The traditional holistic healing system of India, Ayurveda is believed to be the oldest-surviving complete medical system in the world, dating back approximately 5,000 years. Ayurveda embraces medical science, philosophy, psychology, alchemy and spiritual understanding, and is based on the belief that wellness depends on balance between the mind, body and spirit.

The term ‘Ayurveda’ is derived from the Sanskrit ‘ayur’ meaning ‘life’ and ‘veda’ meaning ‘wisdom’.

According to Ayurvedic philosophy there are four goals in life, and all human beings aspire to one or more of them: Kama (enjoyment), Artha (prosperity), Dharma (career) and Moska (enlightenment).

Ayurveda states there are three main body types, known as doshas, these are Vata, Pitta and Kapha. These doshas express everything about us from our skin type and physical characteristics, to our health and personality traits.

Urban Veda has been developed in synergy with Ayurvedic principles to target the primary skincare needs of the three doshas. The central concept of this Ayurvedic skincare approach is to maintain your dosha’s natural balance, helping to keep skin in optimum health.

Vata

The word ‘vata’ is derived from the Sanskrit ‘va’, meaning ‘wind’ and is a combination of the elements of ether and air. Vata types are slim, creative and full of vitality, signifying energy and movement. They are enthusiastic and sensitive, imaginative and impulsive. The dosha that is most likely to fall out of balance, Vata skin can become dry, dull and lack-lustre.

Shop our Radiance range for Vata skin.

Pitta

The term ‘pitta’ comes from the Sanskrit root ‘tap’, meaning to heat, and is a combination of fire and water. Pitta types are often of medium build, and are ambitious, quick-witted and intelligent. They are quite methodical and organized and are often perfectionists. Pitta types can become hot-tempered when out of balance, and skin can become sensitive and aggravated; prone to conditions such as rosacea.

Shop our Soothing range for Pitta skin.

Kapha

Kapha is a combination of earth and water, the principle of potential energy, of growth and protection. With a natural resilience, Kapha types are stable, sturdy, calm and peaceful. They are grounded, forgiving, methodical and compassionate. When out of balance, they can become slow and sluggish, tending towards being overweight. Skin as a result can lead to blocked pores and excessive oil.

Shop our Purifying range for Kapha skin.

In order to find the perfect skincare products to suit your skin, complete our questionnaire to discover your dosha!