Shweta Shah, Ayurvedic Nutritionist & Founder of EatFit24/7, decodes what your face reveals about your internal health.
Ever wondered why your forehead keeps breaking out, or why those under-eye circles just won’t fade, no matter how many hours of sleep you get? According to Ayurveda, your face is a mirror to your internal health. Each zone reflects what’s happening inside your body, be it digestive issues, hormonal imbalance, emotional stress, or even dehydration. The ancient wisdom of Ayurveda offers simple ways to read these signs a nd correct imbalances with natural, consistent care.
Forehead: Gut & Mental Health
The forehead is directly connected to the digestive and nervous systems. Breakouts, dullness, or deep lines here may indicate an overworked gut or mind. Late-night eating, mental burnout, or irregular sleep can be the culprits. Begin with small shifts: Sip chamomile and Brahmi tea before bed, take Triphala at night for gentle cleansing, and apply cool coconut oil to the forehead to soothe the Pitta dosha.
Between The Brows: Liver & Emotions
The area between your eyebrows reflects liver health and emotional tension. Breakouts or a furrowed brow here can signal liver congestion or unresolved anger. Warm lemon water in the morning helps the liver detox gently. Include bitter greens like methi and arugula in your meals, and try applying cooling Chandanadi oil at night to release stored emotional heat.
Under-Eye Area: Kidneys & Hydration
Dark circles or puffiness under the eyes? Ayurveda links this to kidney function and hydration. Long hours on screens and salty foods only worsen it. Switch to drinking water stored in an earthen matka to keep hydration cooling and natural. A nightly massage with almond and Jatamansi oils can support this delicate area. And don’t forget the 30-30 rule – every 30 minutes, take a 30-second break from your screen.
Cheeks: Lungs & Emotional WellBeing
Your cheeks often reflect the state of your lungs and emotional well-being. Redness, pigmentation, or dryness in this area could be a response to heat, pollution, or shallow breathing. Herbal steam with tulsi or licorice purifies both skin and lungs. Start your day with sesame oil pulling and follow up with nasya using Anu taila – an Ayurvedic nasal oil that supports both respiratory health and emotional release.
Nose: Heart & Circulation
The nose relates to your heart and blood circulation. Enlarged pores, blackheads, or redness might point towards internal heat or blood pressure irregularities. Try sipping hibiscus or rose tea in the afternoon to cool the body and support heart health. Incorporate Anulom Vilom Pranayama i.e., alternate nostril breathing, into your daily routine. For a calming ritual, apply Jatamansi oil behind the ears and on your temples.
Chin & Jawline: Hormones & Reproductive Health
Breakouts on the chin and jawline? This area is closely tied to hormones and reproductive health. Women often notice cystic acne before menstruation; men may experience breakouts due to cortisol or testosterone surges. Women can consider Shatavari, while men may benefit from Ashwagandha, always under the guidance of a practitioner. Massaging your lower abdomen with castor or Hing-infused sesame oil can also help rebalance hormones. Consistent sleep and wake timings go a long way in restoring your body’s rhythm.
Your Skin Is Speaking, Are You Listening?
Instead of viewing your skin as something to be “fixed,” see it as a wise communicator. These visible signs are gentle nudges, asking you to address internal imbalances. Rather than masking symptoms with expensive creams, Ayurveda invites you to tune in and restore harmony from within. Your face is not betraying you, it’s guiding you. Every dark circle, breakout, or dull patch is a whisper from your body, asking you to listen a little deeper
