Winter skincare and debunking myths with Forest Essentials’ Mira Kulkarni

Ayurveda has been the soul of Indian beauty for centuries, blending nature’s wisdom with age-old rituals. Over the years, many brands have embraced this holistic philosophy, one of them being Forest Essentials. With winter just around the corner, we sat down with Mira Kulkarni, the visionary behind the brand, to uncover her winter beauty rituals, timeless skincare DIYs passed down through generations, and her take on how technology and Ayurveda are reshaping skincare today. Dive in for all the winter skincare wisdom you need.

1. Winter skincare can be tricky—what are some of your must-follow rituals for keeping skin glowing and hydrated during the colder months?

Winter can be harsh on the skin, so maintaining deep nourishment and hydration is key. Start with a gentle cleanser, followed by a rich moisturizer, and incorporate oils and serums to lock in moisture. Our new Varuna Exceptional Repair Serum is ideal for this time of year as it provides deep hydration and helps repair the skin, especially during colder months when the skin tends to lose moisture. A good lip balm and nourishing under-eye cream are also essential. Layering these products is crucial — it’s like building a protective barrier to keep the skin hydrated and healthy throughout the winter.

2. Botox and fillers have become a popular quick fix, but Ayurveda traditionally encourages a more natural approach. What’s your perspective on these treatments, and do you see a way for them to coexist with holistic beauty?

Botox and fillers certainly have their place for those seeking immediate cosmetic changes, but Ayurveda promotes a more holistic, long-term approach to beauty. Natural remedies and holistic rituals focus on balancing the body, mind, and skin. While modern treatments have their benefits, they can coexist with Ayurvedic practices when approached thoughtfully. For instance, using a serum like the Samsara Miraculous Glow Booster helps nourish and rejuvenate the skin at a cellular level, complementing and enhancing any cosmetic treatments.

3. There’s a lot of advice out there that isn’t always rooted in science or tradition. Are there any skincare myths you’d love to debunk once and for all?

One myth I often hear is that oily skin doesn’t need moisturization. Even oily skin needs hydration to maintain its balance and health. Many people with oily skin avoid moisturizers, but they may end up overproducing oil as their skin compensates for the lack of moisture. It’s important to find the right moisturizer for your skin type. The Balancing Night Cream with Gotu Kola, Neem & Pear Juice Ferment offers lightweight hydration that’s perfect for oilier skin types while still providing deep nourishment. Also, our Forest Essentials Facial Tonic Mist is a great example of how natural ingredients like rose, jasmine, and sandalwood can hydrate, balance, and rejuvenate the skin effectively.

4. Ayurveda has so many secrets for youthful skin. What’s one beauty ritual or ingredient you believe can truly help slow down visible signs of aging, and why?

In Ayurveda, we believe in the importance of Rasayana – rejuvenating practices that nourish and revitalize the skin. One of my favorite ingredients for slowing down signs of aging is Pure Ghee, which is known for its anti-stress and anti-aging properties, when infused with age-defying herbs. It helps combat free radicals and strengthens the skin from within. It’s used in the Tejasvi Brightening Ghee Cream formulated to support the skin’s natural repair process, leaving it looking youthful and radiant.

5. Is there a special skincare remedy or ritual that your mom or grandma passed down to you? We’d love to know if there’s a DIY tip that’s stayed with you.

One of the most cherished skincare rituals I learned from my grandmother is the use of a natural chandan (sandalwood) face pack. Mix hand ground sandalwood paste with rose water to create a smooth paste and apply it to your face. Sandalwood is calming, purifying, and excellent for brightening the skin. This simple, effective remedy has stayed with me, and it inspired our Forest Essentials’ Chandan Varnya Lepa — a luxurious version of that very same recipe. It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest things are the most effective.

6. Forest Essentials embodies the essence of natural luxury, but we’re seeing a lot of technology-driven skincare too. Do you think there’s a balance between tech-based skincare and Ayurvedic traditions?

Ayurveda and technology can complement each other beautifully. While Ayurveda is steeped in natural wisdom, technology helps refine and enhance these ancient practices. At Forest Essentials, the best of both worlds is utilized: products are rooted in centuries-old Ayurvedic principles, while the latest scientific methods are employed to ensure they are effective, pure, and safe for modern skin. It’s not about replacing one with the other, but about finding a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation.

7. As skincare evolves, where do you see Ayurvedic beauty heading in the next decade? Is there an area you’re particularly excited to explore with Forest Essentials?

The future of Ayurvedic beauty is incredibly exciting, with a growing recognition of the value of holistic self-care and preventive beauty. In the coming years, Ayurveda is expected to become even more personalized, with products tailored to individuals’ unique doshas, lifestyles, and skin concerns. At Forest Essentials, the focus remains on developing formulations that seamlessly combine ancient wisdom with modern advancements.

8. For those of us who may not wish to buy a whole new set of products for winter, are there any simple adjustments you’d suggest making to a basic skincare routine?

You don’t have to overhaul your entire skincare routine for winter. A few simple adjustments can make all the difference. First, add a richer moisturizer or an oil-based serum to your routine — the Varuna Exceptional Repair Serum and Samsara Miraculous Glow Booster are perfect for this. They come in under your regular moisturisers or serums to optimize their performance. Second, try incorporating a hydrating face mist for an extra layer of moisture throughout the day. Lastly, be sure to protect your skin with a good sunscreen, even in winters, as UV rays can still affect your skin. Hydration and protection are key to keeping your skin healthy during the colder months.