Pigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns today, whether it is dark spots, uneven skin tone, sun damage, or post-acne marks.
Ayurveda offers time-tested solutions, and among them, Kumkumadi Tailam and Nalpamaradi Tailam are often confused or used interchangeably.
But they are not the same.
Understanding Pigmentation in Ayurveda
In Ayurvedic terms, pigmentation is mainly linked to a Pitta dosha imbalance, often aggravated by:
* Excess sun exposure
* Heat
* Stress
* Hormonal changes
* Improper skincare
Treatment focuses on cooling, repairing, and restoring skin balance, not just lightening the skin.
Kumkumadi Tailam: For Deep, Stubborn Pigmentation
Best suited for
* Dark spots
* Melasma
* Acne marks
* Uneven skin tone
* Dull or damaged skin
Why it works
Kumkumadi Tailam is a luxurious medicated oil infused with Kumkuma (saffron) along with powerful herbs that penetrate deep into the skin layers.
It works on cellular repair and regeneration, improving complexion from within.
Skin type
* Normal to dry skin
* Mature or damaged skin
When to choose Kumkumadi
If your pigmentation is long-standing, patchy, or related to acne scars or hormonal changes, Kumkumadi is the better choice.
At Bipha Ayurveda, our Kumkumadi Thailam is prepared following classical Ayurvedic references, using carefully selected herbs to support deep repair, radiance, and long-term skin balance.
Explore the product here:
https://www.biphaayurveda.com/products/kumkumadi-thailam
Nalpamaradi Tailam: For Sun Tan and Surface Pigmentation
Best suited for
* Sun tan
* Recent pigmentation
* Uneven tone due to sun exposure
* Inflamed or sensitive skin
Why it works
Prepared from the bark of four ficus trees (Nalpamara), this oil is deeply cooling and detoxifying.
It helps remove tan and surface discoloration while calming excess heat in the skin.
Skin type
* Oily to normal skin
* Pitta-dominant or sensitive skin
When to choose Nalpamaradi
If pigmentation is new, sun-induced, or accompanied by burning or redness, Nalpamaradi is ideal.
Bipha Ayurveda’s Nalpamaradi Thailam is traditionally formulated to help cool the skin, reduce tan, and address surface pigmentation caused by sun exposure and excess heat.
Learn more about the product here:
https://www.biphaayurveda.com/products/nalpamaradi-thailam
Kumkumadi vs Nalpamaradi: Quick Comparison
Kumkumadi Tailam
* Type of pigmentation: Deep and chronic
* Action: Repair and rejuvenation
* Skin type: Normal to dry
* Texture: Rich and nourishing
* Best time to use: Night
Nalpamaradi Tailam
* Type of pigmentation: Surface and sun-induced
* Action: Cooling and detoxifying
* Skin type: Oily and sensitive
* Texture: Light and cooling
* Best time to use: Day or night
Can They Be Used Together?
Yes, but not at the same time.
Many Ayurvedic practitioners recommend:
* Nalpamaradi in the morning to manage heat and tan
* Kumkumadi at night for repair and regeneration
Always adjust based on your prakriti (body constitution) and skin response.
Final Takeaway
There is no one oil for all pigmentation.
* Choose Kumkumadi if your concern is deep, stubborn, or aging-related
* Choose Nalpamaradi if your pigmentation is sun-related, acute, or heat-induced
Ayurveda treats the root cause, not just the appearance.
Consistency, correct selection, and lifestyle balance matter as much as the oil you apply.