Must-have Korean ingredients to add to your skincare routine!

Introduction

We have all heard about all kinds of beauty secrets, from regular CTMs to derma treatments, but there seems to be some hidden gems that have become the talk of the Beauty town these days. Korean beauty products and regimens are built for the long haul. Consistency and commitment yield the much-desired outcomes. Consider it as a contrast between going on a strict, ruthless diet and taking on a smooth, healthy eating lifestyle.

Essentially, the K-routine is about treating your skin with immense love and respect. Instead of treating your skin with harsh chemicals that strip the skin of it’s natural barrier, Korean skin care’s reasoning is tied in with working with your skin’s natural ecosystem by nourishing, hydrating, and protecting it. It’s the perfect green flag for your skin! 

Here’s why you should include these K-ingredients in your skincare routine. It could be the perfect new addition to your everyday skincare order.

Korean blockbuster ingredients

Korean beauty has its magic spread in the beauty world, as it focuses on natural ingredients. It aims at giving you rejuvenated, healthy and glowing skin. The magic is in the ingredients that are native to Korea. Ginseng, Snail mucin, Mugwort extract, Fermented rice water, Licorice root, Pearl, Birch, Bamboo extract are some of the most popular ingredients used in Korean skincare.

Let's take a look at some of these miraculous ingredients.

1. Ginseng

About and Benefits- Ginseng is a short, slow- growing plant with fleshy roots. It is found in Asia and parts of North America. It was a core part of traditional medicine in East Asian countries for thousands of years. Typically used in the dried form of the root, it was thought to provide several benefits, from treating disease to serving as an aphrodisiac. It was also used to treat bruises, wounds,  sores, and other skin conditions. Legend has it that ginseng was the biggest skin-care secret to exist. It is rich in antioxidants, and prevents skin cells from ageing. It is extremely beneficial for maintaining skin’s elasticity, balancing oil production and rejuvenating the skin.

We recommend- Dr. Sheth's Vitamin E & Ginseng Moisturizing Cream

2. Fermented rice water

About and Benefits- Fermented rice water  is a liquid created naturally from rice. Rice is a regular grain, found in many kitchens and consumed as a staple diet in many nations as a result of its astounding medical advantages. Rice is similarly advantageous when it is utilised on the skin and hair. Regular use of rice water on the hair helps battle outrageous hair fall issues. Fermented rice water is also known for its brightening properties. It additionally controls sebum production and mattifies greasy skin which eventually reduces acne.

We recommend- Cosrx Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight Spa Mask

3. Licorice root

About and Benefits- Licorice root comes from the root of the licorice plant and holds herbal properties. This ingredient is utilised in different Korean sun protectant items. It assists with hyperpigmentation and keeps the skin sound and hydrated. It helps with lightening skin pigmentation caused due to exposure to harmful UV rays. It is an incredible option in contrast to brutal synthetic sunscreens. It also helps brighten the skin, calms inflammation, and reduces redness and puffiness. 

We recommend- Rovectin Skin Essentials Treatment Lotion

4. Bamboo extract

About and Benefits- Bamboo extract was traditionally used in  Asia for a really long time as a way to recuperate skin. Bamboo contains silica, a natural nutrient which is one of the fundamental components of collagen. In skincare, bamboo is anti-ageing for this reason; basically, it assists with recharging collagen stores that drain as we age.

Moreover, bamboo has a reputation to reinforce and repair the skin, so is popularly used as an ingredient for acne treatment. Bamboo fibre helps lock in that hydration to dull the presence of fine lines, while a matte finish softens dark circles.

We recommend- Lisen Pure Genius Multi - Action Peel Stick 

5. Birch

About and Benefits- Birch juice is a go-to ingredient in the Korean skincare routine.

The juice or sap is extricated from the best white and dark Birch trees and is improved with nutrients, minerals, proteins, and catalysts. It is extremely hydrating and nourishes your skin and balances its natural moisture. Just like a fresh glass of coconut water it can quench your skin’s thirst. Due to its richness in antioxidants, It helps soothe sensitive and irritated skin. It also detoxifies skin and helps reduce inflammation.

We recommend- One Thing Moisture Plus Cream

6. Snail mucin

About and Benefits-  AKA snail secretion. It does sound a little frightening when you ponder placing snail sludge all over. In any case, there truly isn't a lot to stress over. Snail mucin for cosmetic use is filtered and processed for safe use on your skin.  The South Koreans and some others believe in Snail mucin’s power as it contains hyaluronic and glycolic acid which provides hydration.  It also reduces wrinkles, fine lines and scars when used regularly, therefore, making it a great ingredient for anti-ageing products.

We recommend- Cosrx Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream 

7. Centella Asiatica

About and Benefits-  Centella Asiatica grows primarily in Asia. People have been making use of it as a skincare ingredient for some time now due to its health benefits. Centella Asiatica is known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties and is a boon for acne-prone skin. It soothes sensitive skin and keeps it hydrated!

It also repairs skin damage by boosting collagen production in the skin resulting in a youthful looking skin. You can spot Centella Asiatica as a key ingredient in numerous skincare products these days, especially Korean skincare. Centella is best used in a concentrated moisturiser or balm. 

We recommend- Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin C Drop Serum

8. Mugwort extract

About and Benefits- Mugwort also known as Artemisia Vulgaris is a customary spice that was used for its medicinal properties. It was usually consumed along with teas to get rid of all the toxins from the body. mugwort is a popular K-Beauty ingredient because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it helps improve skin’s complexion, fight acne and soothe rashes.

We recommend- One Thing Artemisia Capillaris Extract

The Takeaway

K-beauty and korean practices have made a mark in skincare for people across nations. Korean beauty secrets are worth trying and are absolute game changers. The popular Korean skincare ingredients offer immense amounts of benefits and are the perfect addition to your skincare routine. If you want to reap benefits of some very lush and uber popular formulas, Korean skincare is the way to go! We’d recommend a patch test for any products you use, like always! Talk to a dermat if you experience any issues. Stay safe and try out K-beauty if you haven’t!

-Ashi Bansal