“Europe will always have influence in terms of science-based skin care technology,” says Richard Pietz, global director of product development at Jurlique. “But people are looking to Asia for ingredients with natural and traditional efficacy.” Plus, Asia simply tends to care about skin care…a lot. Since Asian culture defines beauty as having flawless skin, there’s a high demand for skin care products, forcing companies to create and innovate. “For thousands of years, there have been potions, treatments, and services that were dedicated to achieve the perfect complexion,” says Esther Dong, senior vice president of Sulwhasoo.“People in Asia believe beautiful skin doesn’t need cover-up.” That’s something we can all get behind. Here, three ingredients native to Asia that promote healthy skin. Korea: Korean Red Ginseng “While ginseng is the king of Asian herbal medicine, red ginseng is known for being the most potent and effective,” says Dong. Effective at what, you ask? “It eases dryness and treats dark circles under your eyes, and reduces fine lines and wrinkles,” she explains. And it’s potent: so much so that the Japanese categorize any skin care products with the ingredient as a drug, she adds. Try this: Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Cream Japan: Oils “All oils are extremely popular in Japan,” says Pietz. But grapeseed, soy, and rice bran oils are particularly prevalent because they hydrate without feeling heavy. Try one of these: 5 Beauty Oils For Better Skin China: Herbs “Chinese women have traditionally favored potent herbs from Chinese herbal medicine for effective skin care benefits without parabens or synthetics,” says Pietz. Think: Licorice and mulberry to brighten, chamomile to sooth, and echinacea to prevent infections. Try this: Olehenrikson Sheer Transformaion (with licorice and chamomile) More from Prevention: The New Retinol The Wrinkle Fix Of The Future
