Serum, Oil, or Cream? An Ayurvedic Guide (Backed by Science)

❌ Mistake 1: Using All Three Layers Every Day (Even When the Skin Doesn’t Need It)

Many people believe the “more steps = better skin” myth. But Ayurveda reminds us that skin likes simplicity.
On humid or hot days, layering serum + oil + cream can easily clog pores or cause irritation.

Better: Let the season and your skin feeling guide the number of steps.

❌ Mistake 2: Using Heavy Oils on Kapha or Acne-Prone Skin

This is extremely common. Oils like sesame or coconut may feel beautiful, but on Kapha skin they can
trigger congestion, blackheads and breakouts.

Better: Choose lightweight oils (rosehip, jojoba) — or skip oil entirely.

❌ Mistake 3: Overusing Actives (Vitamin C, AHA/BHA, Retinol)

Especially for Pitta skin, too many actives cause redness, burning and inflammation.
Ayurveda always chooses soothing → strong, never the opposite.

Better: Introduce one active at a time and always balance with hydration.

❌ Mistake 4: Forgetting to Seal Serums

Hydrating serums (like hyaluronic acid) actually pull moisture from the deeper layers unless you
lock them in with an oil or cream.
This is why some people feel “drier” after using hydrating serum alone.

Better: Always follow serum with an oil or cream — especially for Vata skin.

❌ Mistake 5: Using the Same Product All Year

Your skin in winter is completely different from your skin in summer.
Yet most people use the same moisturiser in both seasons.

Better: Adjust textures with climate: rich in winter, light in summer.

• One client with oily Kapha skin was applying sesame oil nightly because someone told her it was
“Ayurvedic.” Her acne worsened. After switching to a light gel cream and niacinamide serum, her skin cleared
within weeks.

• A sensitive Pitta client used a strong vitamin C + retinol + glycolic routine recommended online.
Her skin barrier was inflamed and burning. We simplified her routine to aloe, sandalwood serum and a cooling
cream — her redness improved drastically.

• A Vata client depended only on a gel moisturiser. Her fine lines were getting deeper. As soon as we added
almond oil + a nourishing night cream, her skin regained glow and smoothness.

Ayurveda reminds us: “What suits one person may not suit another. Treat the person, not the problem.”