Individuals with thick and oily skin are included under the category of kapha skin types and due to the thickness of the skin, it tends to accumulate more toxin (ama) in the body. Hence individuals with kapha constitution and skin are recommended regular de-toxification(helps in flushing out toxins accumulated in the body) according to Ayurveda.
The diet of [tag]kapha skin types[/tag] include warmer, lighter food that is less oily and easy to digest. It is suggested that people with kapha skin types can eat foods that are more pungent and bitter in taste to balance the kapha dosha in the skin. Avoiding oily, and spicy foods that increase oiliness in the skin and including plenty of organic veggies and fruits in regular diet will help in cleansing the body internally. Spices like ginger and black pepper inhibits the accumulation of ama (toxins) in the body and hence can be used regularly while cooking. A warm oil massage and regular physical exercise will improve blood circulation to the skin. Also using a mud-mask atleast once a week and scrubbing the skin with a gentle clay for exfoliation will help in external cleansing of the skin.
Certain herbs like Manjishtha (Indian Madder), Neem, Tulasi, Triphala and turmeric help in balancing the kapha dosha in the skin. Apart from nourishing the skin, they also help in detoxification. They also adds up to [tag]skin brightness[/tag] and clarity and balances the oiliness of the skin. Most ayurvedic formulations for kapha skin types contains these herbs in combination with light oils and aromas that balance the [tag]kapha dosha[/tag].