The two approaches to achieving healthy and radiant skin, Korean and American skincare, differ significantly. American skincare products focus on the basics of cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection, and often use synthetic ingredients and harsh chemicals to produce results.
On the other hand, Korean skincare takes a more elaborate and holistic approach with a multi-step routine that incorporates exfoliation, serums, sheet masks, and sun protection. Korean skincare also relies more on natural ingredients and herbal extracts to promote skin health.
Natural ingredients in Korean skincare
Korean skincare has a deep-rooted appreciation for the gifts of nature and has long embraced the healing power of natural ingredients for their skincare routines.
Here's a list of common natural ingredients you'll often find in Korean skincare products:
Green Tea: Known for its antioxidant properties, it helps soothe and calm the skin while providing hydration and protection against environmental stressors.
Ginseng: This powerful herb is revered for its anti-aging properties. It helps boost collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and promote youthful complexion.
Rice: Rice extracts or fermented rice water are popular ingredients in Korean skincare. They brighten the skin, even the complexion, and provide a gentle exfoliation.
Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a soothing ingredient that hydrates and calms irritated skin. It's often used in products targeted at sensitive or sunburned skin.
Honey: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, honey is a natural humectant that moisturizes and nourishes the skin. It also has antibacterial properties, making it beneficial for acne-prone skin.
Snail Mucin: Yes, you read that right! Snail mucin has gained popularity in Korean skincare due to its hydrating, regenerative, and healing properties. It helps promote skin repair, fade scars, and improve skin texture.
Centella Asiatica: Also known as "cica" or "tiger grass," this ingredient has soothing properties. It helps reduce inflammation, strengthen the skin barrier, and accelerate wound healing.
Propolis: Derived from bees, propolis is a resinous substance rich in antioxidants. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, ideal for acne-prone or sensitive skin.
Seaweed: Seaweed extracts, such as kelp or sea lettuce, are commonly used in Korean skincare. They provide hydration, replenish minerals, and offer antioxidant benefits to the skin.
Licorice Root: Licorice root extract has brightening and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps improve skin tone, fade dark spots, and soothe redness or irritation.
While I use K-Beauty/Korean skin care almost exclusively, I add Vitamin C serum and hyaluronic acid in the morning and either Matrixyl Synthe 6 or Coenzyme Q10 Serums in the evening for added anti-aging benefits. My personal protocols came about through trial and error and some research.
My favorite quality Korean skincare regime is from Riman (Incellderm). It can be pricy, but when I compared it with other options, it wasn't 'that much' more expensive. I know its quality ingredients and that is of the utmost importance.
To take a look at what I use: https://riman.com/member-ship?referralCode=2098436589
Hydration and food consumption also play a big part in your skin health. What we feed our bodies comes out in our skin (what my grandmother used to say to me), so take care of your body, and your body will take care of you (another grandmother anecdote).
If you are interested in what I use exactly both with Incellderm and with what can be purchased via Amazon, let me know: andrea@andreamichele.com
Also, it is important to speak with your dermatologist or aesthetician to ensure you meet your skin and skincare needs and goals.
* Pictures from Canva** Some of this was taken from an article on https://getglowingnowskincare.com/ for additional and more detailed information on Korean vs. American skincare and ingredients.
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