Winter is the season when Vata rides higher than usual in most people's physiologies. Increased Vata can result in dry flaky skin, chapped lips and dry, brittle hair. Here are some ways to keep Vata dosha in balance and prevent Vata-associated skin problems:

Avoid exposing skin to harsh winter elements such as freezing temperatures and drying cold winds. Dress warmly, in layers, and wear a hat, scarf and gloves when you go out in cold weather. Wear a natural lip balm to protect your lips. A light layer of ghee (clarified butter) can also work as natural lip protection.

Protect facial skin from both cold winds and drying air from heaters with a rich natural moisturizer. Apply the moisturizer at least twice a day, once after your cleansing routine in the morning and again before you go to bed. Always apply moisturizer on clean skin, preferably after you apply a natural water-based toner. Your hands can also benefit from the application of a rich moisturizer in winter.

Three or four times a week, offer dry facial and body skin additional lipid support with a replenishing oil. Choose a nourishing base oil such as almond. Add six-eight drops of a Vata-pacifying pure essential oil such as lavender or neroli to two ounces of the base oil, and mix well. Apply to skin damp from the bath or shower to seal in hydration. Test first to make sure you are not sensitive to the essential oil you choose before you apply it on a regular basis.

The pre-bath warm oil ayurvedic self-massage, called abhyanga, is a must-do in winter. The massage not only keeps your skin silky-smooth, it also tones the muscles, calms the nerves and aids circulation. Pat excess oil off with a paper towel before you step into the bath or shower, and exercise care because oil can be slippery. Choose a nourishing oil such as almond or sesame oil for the massage.

The skin on your feet tends to dry and crack more in winter. Treat your feet to a relaxing soak at night, three times a week. A quick foot bath can be made in a large, wide-mouthed bowl with warm water, sea salts, Epsom salt and two or three drops of your favorite aroma oil. After the
soak, rub in an herbal lotion or some shea butter or some almond oil on your feet. The foot soaking and massage rituals will not only keep your feet looking good; they will also help you ease into sleep faster.

Do not bathe or shower in very hot water. Comfortably warm water is much gentler on your skin. Do not bathe more than once a day if your skin is very dry.

Do not use harsh soaps to cleanse, as they will strip your skin of precious lipids. Use a non-soap cleanser or very mild soap to cleanse.

Give your skin lipid support from within by including soaked and blanched almonds, soaked walnuts, whole milk, fresh cheese such as paneer, and ghee (clarified butter) in your daily diet. Drink a cup of warm milk laced with 1/4 teaspoon ghee at bedtime for a daily boost of lipid support from within.
Eat fruits and vegetables high in water content at every meal. Zucchini, lauki squash, tender asparagus, tender greens, and carrots make excellent vegetable choices. Sweet juicy berries, cooked apples and sweet grapes are good fruit choices. Drink lots of warm water through the day.

Ayurvedic herbs such as Amla provide concentrated nourishment to the deeper layers of the skin. Amla is the richest known natural source of vitamin C and offers potent antioxidant support. Take the Amalaki Rasayana on a regular basis to replenish skin from within.

Remember that a holistic approach yields the best results and the longest-lasting results. Try and incorporate as many of the above suggestions as you can to keep Vata dosha in balance and your skin looking smooth, soft and beautiful through the dry winter months.

Note: This ayurvedic information is educational, and is not intended to replace standard medical care or advice.

About the Author
Shreelata Suresh is a yoga instructor who lives in the Bay Area. She writes for various publications on yoga, ayurveda and Indian culture. For more articles on ayurveda and premier ayurvedic products, please visit http://www.ayurbalance.com.