When it comes to skincare, most of us focus on products like cleansers, moisturisers, and serums. But what if we told you there’s a simple, natural practice that can enhance your skincare routine, leaving you with a healthier, glowing complexion? The buzzword we are sure you have heard or seen in your social media feed is oil-pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic practice that is making a comeback in modern wellness circles.
If you have ever wondered what oil pulling is, how it works, and the various skincare benefits it offers, our expert Dr Akshitha Shetty, Consultant- Dermatology and Trichology, Kauvery Hospitals, Marathahalli - Bangalore, has the answer to all your queries. In a candid conversation, she shared why you should add it to your morning routine for clearer, smoother skin and a healthier mouth!
What is Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling involves swishing a tablespoon of oil in your mouth for 10-20 minutes. The goal is to ‘pull’ toxins and impurities from your mouth and gums, which is believed to improve overall oral health and even impact your skin. According to experts, this practice is done first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, even before brushing your teeth.
The oils commonly used for oil pulling include coconut oil, sesame oil, and sunflower oil. Coconut oil is particularly popular due to its natural antimicrobial properties and pleasant taste.
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How Does Oil Pulling Work?
“When you swish oil in your mouth, it binds to the bacteria, toxins, and other debris that accumulate in your mouth overnight. As the oil pulls these impurities, it helps to cleanse your gums, teeth, and oral cavity,” Dr Shetty explained. Additionally, the oil doesn’t just target bacteria but also works to improve saliva production, which naturally helps in the detoxification process.
Though oil pulling is primarily associated with oral health, its effects may extend to your skin as well. By removing toxins from the body through the mouth, oil pulling can help reduce the burden on other organs, including your skin, which is often a reflection of what’s going on inside your body.
Skincare Benefits Of Oil Pulling
While oil pulling may not be a replacement for topical skincare products, adding it to your routine can provide a range of benefits that help boost your skin’s appearance and health:
1. Improves Skin Tone and Clarity
Oil pulling helps promote detoxification, aids in clearing up breakouts and reduces the appearance of blemishes. Toxins and bacteria often contribute to skin issues, and oil pulling may help address the root cause of acne and dull skin.
2. Reduces Inflammation
“Coconut oil, in particular, has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin,” Dr Shetty noted. Regular oil pulling may help reduce skin redness and puffiness, resulting in a more even complexion.
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3. Boosts Hydration
Swishing oil around in your mouth increases saliva production, which is linked to better hydration levels. This in turn helps to maintain the skin’s moisture balance and can leave your skin feeling softer and more supple.
4. Promotes Healthy Gums For Radiant Smile
Talking about oral hygiene Dr Shetty said, “Of course, the most well-known benefit of oil pulling is improved oral hygiene. Healthy gums and teeth contribute to an overall radiant appearance, and it helps to ensure a beautiful smile along with glowing skin.”
5. Prevents Early Signs Of Ageing
Dr Shetty shared that oil pulling may help combat the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It detoxifies the body, which can reduce oxidative stress, a major contributor to the ageing process.
How To Incorporate Oil Pulling Into Your Skincare Routine
Integrating oil pulling into your morning routine is simple, and it doesn’t require a lot of time or effort. Here’s how you can get started:
- Choose the oil of your choice
- Swish for 10-20 Minutes
- Spit and rinse
- Finish off with brushing your teeth
“To see noticeable results in your skin, try to incorporate oil pulling into your routine a few times a week and over time, you may notice clearer skin, and improved oral health,” Dr Shetty concluded.
Bottomline
Oil pulling is a simple yet effective practice with numerous benefits that extend beyond the known oral hygiene. Adding this ancient technique to your skincare routine will help you support your skin’s health and achieve a brighter, clearer complexion. Whether you're looking to detoxify, fight inflammation, or simply boost hydration, oil pulling can be a great addition to your morning ritual. So, why not give oil pulling a try? Share your experience with us here.