Nitya Ganapathy, Founder of Nei Native
05-Feb-2026
The secret to a healthy skin lies in going back to your roots
Some of the most meaningful lessons in wellness don’t come from trends or textbooks but from routines at home that we rarely question growing up. Many of us are surrounded by practices that feel ordinary at the time, ingredients used without labels, methods followed without explanation, and habits shaped by care rather than convenience. These moments are less about the act itself and more about intention: nourishment, patience, and an understanding of what it means to truly sustain oneself.
Over the years, these early experiences have deeply shaped how I view wellness today, and why I continue to place my trust in traditional ingredients, because they are rooted in lived wisdom, balance, and a relationship with the body that modern systems are only beginning to rediscover.
The beauty and wellness industry is experiencing a real transformation. Consumers are no longer interested in just beautiful packaging and quick fixes. They want to know what goes into their products, how they are made, and if they really work to help their skin and bodies stay healthy in the long term. This awareness has led to a need for transparency and honesty in the industry.
The definition of beauty is also undergoing a transformation. Beauty is no longer just about surface-level solutions or quick fixes. Rather, it is being defined as a form of nourishment, balance, and longevity. Consumers are now investing in routines that will help them feel better, look better, and live better.
One of the most noticeable effects of this paradigm shift is the resurgence of interest in traditional ingredients. Many of these ingredients have been present in Indian homes for several generations. Ghee, turmeric, herbs, and natural oils were never a trend. They were a part of everyday life because they were effective. Their effectiveness is in their real-world applications and the knowledge that has been passed down through the years. Formulations like shata dhauta ghrita are a testament to this, where the method itself is also a factor in the promotion of skin healing.
(Image Credits: Pexels)
Crucially, the return to tradition is not a rejection of modern science but rather an integration of the old with the new. In modern times, traditional medicines are researched for their effects on skin barriers, nutrient stability, and long-term benefits, ensuring that they remain relevant while maintaining their original purpose.
Simplicity has become uncommon in a market full of convoluted formulations and never-ending product launches. Products with fewer, well-chosen ingredients reflect a greater understanding of how the skin and body function. At Nei Native, we believe that what you apply on your skin matters just as much as the things you consume. This idea is represented by preparations such as shata dhauta ghrita. It doesn't rely on trends or overstated promises because it is made with only a few ingredients.
Cover Credits: Pexels
