Winter brings dry, cold winds that strip the skin of moisture, leaving it dull, flaky, and tight. To restore softness, many people turn to oiling, using coconut oil, sesame oil, or mustard oil to nourish and hydrate the skin. But according to Ayurveda, not every oil is suitable for everyone. Each person has a unique body constitution—Vata, Pitta, or Kapha—and the skin’s requirements vary based on this.

Some people naturally have dry skin, some have sensitive or reactive skin, and others have oily skin with open pores. Using the wrong type of oil can worsen these conditions instead of improving them. So, which oil should you choose? An Ayurvedic expert helps break it down.

Ayurvedic expert shares the correct oil for each body type

Ayurveda specialist Dr. Nitika Kohli recently shared a video on Instagram explaining which oils are ideal for different skin types during winter and the correct way to use them. Here’s what she recommends.

Best oils for dry or irritated skin

If your skin becomes red, inflamed, itchy, or excessively dry in winter, almond oil or coconut oil are excellent choices. Both oils have moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe redness and irritation. Almond oil is also rich in vitamin E, which helps repair damaged skin and restores its natural softness.

Who should use mustard oil?

According to Ayurvedic practitioners, mustard oil works well for people whose skin is not extremely dry and stays naturally soft. It provides warmth and nourishment in winter, but it should be applied in moderation because of its thicker, heavier texture, which can sometimes feel sticky.