4 Holy Grail Skincare Ingredients You Need To Know

November 18, 2020

We all know that beauty comes from the inside and out. So why not look for ingredients that can do both? For a holistic and balanced approach, try out these four amazing holy grail skincare ingredients that you can find in your skincare products and at your local supermarket.

Ginseng

If you ever watched Harry Potter, you might be familiar with the mandrake – a humanoid-like root creature that screams death when pulled out of its safe haven in the soil. On the other hand, ginseng is a coveted superfood in Asian culture, known as “the root of immortality,” and will probably not scream when harvested. Ginseng has very high levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, as well as anti-aging properties. As it turns out, ginseng’s bioactive compounds, including saponins, pantothenic acid, polysaccharides, and vitamins B1, B2, and B12, has many benefits for your skin. Saponins help prevent UV-caused hyperpigmentation and wrinkles, while pantothenic acid helps retain skin’s moisture and calm inflammation. Pretty cool, right? And since it takes ginseng six years to ensure its peak potency, you can expect to find this holy grail skincare ingredient infused in many luxury K-beauty brands.

Venn Age-Reversing All-In-One Concentrate ($84 USD)

Donginbi 1899 Single Essence ($63.26 USD)

Sulwhasoo Best Sellers Trial Kit ($54 USD)

I’m From Ginseng Serum ($20.99 USD)

Mugwort

People have used this incredible herb for centuries as both a medicinal plant and for cuisines (and let’s be honest – it also sounds like something from Potions class at Hogwarts). In the K-beauty world, mugwort is a potent ingredient that calms inflamed skin and repairs the skin barrier. Mugwort also has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, and it’s packed with antioxidants that can prevent signs of premature aging from UV damage. And that’s not all, consume it as a tea to ease menstrual cramps, stimulate appetite, or relieve stomach discomfort.

Keep in mind that mugwort is a member of the ragweed family which can potentially cause allergies for some. And for pregnant women, mugwort is definitely not recommended.

I’m From Mugwort Essence ($40 USD)

Isntree Spot Saver Mugwort Ampoule ($38 USD)

Round Lab Mugwort Calming Cream ($25.49 USD)

Holika Holika Pure Essence Mugwort Foam Cleanser ($12.99 USD)

Propolis

For honey lovers, you might be familiar with propolis. But what exactly is it? Propolis is a natural resinous mixture that honeybees produce to construct and repair their hives – hence the name: bee glue! As we know, people used honey as a remedy since ancient times, but the same goes for propolis. For example, the ancient Egyptians used propolis in their mummification process, while the Incas used propolis to treat fevers. Some Koreans say that the most beautiful women used propolis as a wash-off mask during the Joseon Dynasty to help soothe, moisturize, and soften dry and chapped skin. Now those sound like holy grail skincare ingredients!

If you’re wondering about the benefits, propolis has antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties! It’s also a rich source of antioxidants and great for healing wounds. For the oily and acne-prone skin types, propolis can help kill off acne-causing bacteria, repair the skin barrier, fight free radical damage, and even regulate sebum production.

Farmacy Honey Halo Ultra-Hydrating Ceramide Moisturizer ($45 USD)

IUNIK Propolis Vitamin Synergy Serum ($16 USD)

Dr. Ceuracle Royal Vita Propolis 33 Ampoule ($25.39 USD)

COSRX Full Fit Propolis Light Ampoule ($19.69 USD)

Green Tea

Green tea may be the perfect pick-me-up on drowsy mornings, but did you know that it’s a great source of antioxidants for your body and skin? This is rich in flavonoids, including a unique compound known as EGCG (epigallocatechin-3 gallate). This active component has many benefits, such as calming inflammation and regulating sebum production. It also contains tannins, which can act like astringents (similar to witch hazel) to reduce the appearance of large pores. On top of that, it’s a wonderful beverage that helps combat stress, strengthens mental focus, and boosst the immune system. What can’t great tea do?