Maharishi Ayurveda Newsletter Archive

The Seven Layers of the Skin

Ayurveda describes seven distinct layers of the skin, each with its own structure and function. The layers are designed so that each layer provides support to the layers above it. The skin as a whole is able to effectively perform its overall functions when all the layers are healthy and balanced.

1. Avabhasini: This is the outermost layer. It reflects the complexion and the quality of the Rasa Dhatu (nutrient fluid, the first of the seven tissues of the body). It also acts as a mirror: it indicates whether the physiology as a whole is balanced or imbalanced, and whether there is inner health or disorder. The avabhasini layer also reflects the aura of the individual-if there is inner bliss, it shows on this layer. It does not have its own color: it reflects the colors of the inner layers. Internal and external re-hydration and regular massage supports the health and appearance of the avabhasini layer of the skin.
   
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.

Maharishi Ayurveda Youthful Skin Cream

Traditional ayurvedic requirements for categorizing a product as "anti-aging" are much more stringent and comprehensive than the conventional understanding of the term in the cosmetics industry. According to The Council of Maharishi Ayurveda Physicians the remarkable efficacy of this cream stems from the meticulous adherence to the techniques and formulas from the ancient ayurvedic tradition. The traditional knowledge behind the Youthful Skin Cream formula is the key to its success.

People who use the Youthful Skin Cream on a regular basis have reported some phenomenal results, with wrinkles melting away and skin regaining its youthful moisture content in a very short time. Independent research has also shown that these results are real, and can be measured in a quantifiable way.

Skin Health: The Ayurvedic Perspective

According to ayurveda, a number of factors determine skin health and youthfulness, and these include proper moisture balance (Kapha in balance), effective functioning of the metabolic mechanisms that coordinate all the various chemical and hormonal reactions of the skin (Pitta in balance), and efficient circulation of blood and nutrients to the different layers of the skin (Vata in balance).

The health of the following three types of body tissue are especially reflected in the skin: nutritional fluid, blood and muscle. The nutrient fluid "feeds" all of the body's tissues and keeps the skin healthy; blood is associated with liver function and purifies the skin; and muscle provides skin firmness.

Waste products of the body tissues are also involved in skin health. For instance, sweat, the waste-product of fat production, helps to purify and refine the skin.

To be effective, an anti-aging cream has to provide support to all of these areas. For more information see: The Nine Ayurvedic Anti-Aging Properties of Youthful Skin Cream