Ritucharya: Ayurveda's seasonal guide to skin and hair care
The six Indian seasons of Ayurveda, how classical texts say they affect skin, and a practical season-by-season care plan for today.
1 min read · Updated 2026-11-14
Living with the seasons
Ritu means season and charya means regimen. Ritucharya is discussed in the opening chapters of most classical Ayurvedic texts, which say that knowing and following the right regimen for each season improves a person's strength and complexion.
The six ritus
| Ritu | Approx. months | Character | Body care focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shishira | Mid-Jan to mid-Mar | Cold, dry wind | Rich oils, warm baths |
| Vasanta | Mid-Mar to mid-May | Warming, pollen | Ubtans, lighter oils |
| Grishma | Mid-May to mid-Jul | Hot, dry | Cooling, light cleansing |
| Varsha | Mid-Jul to mid-Sep | Humid, rainy | Dry skin folds, fresh washes |
| Sharad | Mid-Sep to mid-Nov | Warm, bright | Soothing, sun care |
| Hemanta | Mid-Nov to mid-Jan | Cool, dry | Abhyanga, nourishing lotions |
A practical seasonal routine
Winter (Hemanta and Shishira): Skin dries quickly. Warm, not hot, baths; a weekly abhyanga with warm oil; a rich lotion straight after bathing.
Spring (Vasanta): An ubtan or lepa once a week to clear winter dullness; lighter oils.
Summer (Grishma): Gentle cleansers, rose water or khus as a cooling splash, light lotions and daily sunscreen.
Monsoon (Varsha): Bathe after sweating, dry skin folds and feet carefully, choose fresh body washes and loose cotton clothes.
Autumn (Sharad): Calm, soothing care and continued sun protection as the sun turns strong again.
This guide is general information drawn from Ayurvedic tradition, not medical advice.
Questions
What are the six ritus?
Shishira (late winter), Vasanta (spring), Grishma (summer), Varsha (monsoon), Sharad (autumn) and Hemanta (early winter), each about two months long.
Is Ritucharya only about food?
No. The texts cover food, daily habits, clothing, exercise and body care such as oil massage and bathing.
Do I need to know my dosha to follow Ritucharya?
No. Seasonal adjustments make sense for everyone. Personal advice from a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner can refine it further.
Sources
This guide is general information about traditional and natural care. It is not medical advice. For a skin, scalp or health condition, speak to a dermatologist or qualified practitioner.
