Nourish your skin with these herbal face masks this winter

As per Ayurveda, the cold nature of winter increases ‘vata’ which causes dry skin, cracked lips and heels. Partap Chauhan, an Ayurvedic doctor, author and speaker suggests that natural face masks that are simple to prepare and work wonders.

Add half a cup of yogurt, add 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice and make a fine paste. Use this as a mask on your face, neck and arms for 20 minutes and wash off with lukewarm water. This has mild bleaching effect which will peel off dead cells, dirt and sebum giving you a radiant skin. Orange juice also tones your skin and removes blemishes.

Hibiscus flower (gudhal) contains natural Alpha-hydroxy Acids (AHA) which makes the skin fresh and improves flexibility, which is why it is sometimes referred to as the botox plant. Boil a hibiscus flower in 2 cups of water until about half a cup remains. Now add honey and coconut oil to the mixture and apply on face and neck. Wash off with lukewarm water after 10-15 minutes. This mixture is a great moisturiser and exfoliator which leaves your skin supple, fresh and bright.

Papaya has amazing health and beauty benefits. It is loaded with vitamins A, C, E and K -- all of which make your skin really soft and supple. It is also a good source of antioxidants. Also, it has a buttery consistency which makes it easy to use. Mash a ripe papaya and squeeze the juice of half a lemon in it and mix well. Apply this to your face and arms for 15 minutes and wash off with lukewarm water to get glowing and moisturised skin.