The best Ayurvedic face oil depends on your skin concern. Kumkumadi tailam is the most popular choice for dull skin and uneven tone, Nalpamaradi tailam is traditionally used for tan and dullness, and Eladi tailam is a classical oil for dry, rough skin. Look for a traditional oil base such as sesame, a published full ingredient list and a clear manufacturer. Auravedic publishes every ingredient of its Ayurvedic oils on the product page, and its Kumkumadi Tailam is made in Kerala.
Which Ayurvedic face oils are most used in India?
| Oil | Traditionally used for | Main herbs | Base |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kumkumadi tailam | Dullness, uneven tone, glow | Saffron, red sandalwood, manjistha, licorice and a long list of supporting herbs | Usually sesame oil, sometimes with milk |
| Nalpamaradi tailam | Tan, dullness, dry patches | Barks of four Ficus trees (nalpamaram), plus herbs such as manjistha and vetiver | Sesame oil |
| Eladi tailam | Dry, rough skin | Cardamom (ela) with other aromatic herbs | Sesame or coconut oil |
Recipes vary between brands, even for the same classical name. Always read the full ingredient list rather than relying on the name alone.
How do you choose a good Ayurvedic face oil?
- A full ingredient list. A good brand lists every herb and the base oil, not just "saffron and herbs".
- The base oil. Classical tailams are cooked in sesame oil. Mineral oil or a long list of synthetic additives is a sign of a cosmetic oil, not a traditional one.
- Real saffron for kumkumadi. Saffron is the costliest ingredient, so very cheap kumkumadi oils are worth questioning.
- Manufacturer details. The label and product page should name who makes it and where.
- Price per ml. Compare cost per ml, not per bottle, since sizes vary from 10 ml to 100 ml.
Which Auravedic oil should you pick?
| If your main concern is… | Choose | Price on auravedic.com |
|---|---|---|
| Dull skin, uneven tone | Kumkumadi Tailam 100ml | ₹367 |
| Trying kumkumadi for the first time | Kumkumadi Tailam 30ml | ₹360 |
| Tan and dullness | Nalpamaradi Thailam 100ml | ₹370 |
| Dark spots | Skin Brightening Oil 100ml | ₹370 |
Prices as listed on auravedic.com in November 2026 and may change.
Auravedic Kumkumadi Tailam has 27 ingredients: 25 herbs in a sesame oil and goat milk base. Because of the goat milk, it is not vegan, and because of the sesame oil, it is not suitable if you are allergic to sesame.
How should you use an Ayurvedic face oil?
- Cleanse your face at night and pat it almost dry.
- Warm two or three drops between your fingertips.
- Press onto the face and massage gently in upward strokes for a minute.
- Leave on overnight. Wear sunscreen the next morning.
Results such as a softer, brighter look build up over several weeks of regular use.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use kumkumadi and nalpamaradi together?
Many people alternate them on different nights rather than layering both. Start with one oil for a few weeks so you know how your skin responds.
Are Ayurvedic oils suitable for oily skin?
Often yes, in small amounts at night. Use two drops, not five, and see how your skin feels the next morning.
Do Ayurvedic oils expire?
Yes. Check the date on the pack and store the bottle closed, away from heat and sunlight.
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