Ginseng isn't beneficial only for our health
In Asia, we know how precious and valuable ginseng is. Used mostly in traditional medicine and home remedies, we also know that it’s not cheap, but for good reason. Touted as the original superfood, some even call it the “root of immortality”, when used in traditional medicine or for other health purposes, ginseng helps to increase blood circulation and strengthen the body’s immune system. So for those who easily have cold hands and feet or are easily tired, you could try some ginseng supplements or herbal remedies. Such usage has been documented as far back as 196 AD.
Ginseng is now not only known because of its health benefits but also due to the vast majority of ginseng products we see in media, especially in Korean dramas/movies. Those small and long packets that the characters slurp down in the morning or whenever they need that burst in energy.
Unlike other natural ingredients like mugwort or cica, ginseng is by no means a new ingredient in skincare. For the skin, ginseng is revered as a “natural skin balancer” and is rich in much needed vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can help to repair damaged cells and treat almost any skin concern.
You probably already know by now how ginseng looks. Ginseng is a root that grows underground in the mountains and is only harvested after growing for 6 long years! Similar to truffles, they are hard to find and very valuable due to the time and environment required for it to grow. So next time you consume ginseng, just know that it will do your body good!
Benefits
Anti-ageing
- Concerned about fine lines and wrinkles? Ginseng can help you. Ginseng contains countless bioactive compounds (saponins, polysaccharides, pectin, sugar, vitamins B1, B2, B12, pantothenic acid) and minerals that help to boost your skin’s blood circulation, in turn boosting collagen synthesis. As a result, your skin will look firmer and reveal a healthy glow.
- The polysaccharides and glycoproteins form a film on the skin that smoothens and firms the skin and any fine lines.
- Hyperpigmentation? No worries! The antioxidants in ginseng can actually inhibit melanin formation by preventing environmental pollutants from penetrating the skin and stimulating melanocytes (these create dark spots).
Antioxidant protection
- Rich in antioxidants, ginseng protects your skin from free radicals and environmental threats like pollution, toxins and UV rays which can trigger ageing skin concerns and potentially cause of premature ageing. In guarding your skin, your skin stays younger-looking and healthier longer.
Brightens your skin
- Suffering from dull-looking skin, similar to caffeine, ginseng possesses wake-me-up properties that brighten and revitalize your complexion.
- Burning the midnight oil for too long and your eye area is in dire need of a wake-me-up? I know the struggle. Ginseng can help to de-puff the eye area and minimise dark circles.
Maintains oil production
- The same antioxidants that protect the skin and treat ageing skin can also help to balance out excessive oil production, making it suitable for people with oily and combination skin. Though it does largely depend on the product’s formulation.
Relieve inflammation
- Ginseng also contains natural anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce and calm any redness and puffiness. Its soothing factors also make it suitable for skin conditions like psoriasis and inflamed acne.
- Some studies show that ginseng also boasts antibacterial properties that can help with irritations and even acne, though this does require more research.
Digital protection
- In current times, working or studying from home has become the new norm and as we face our computers or any electronic devices daily, the HEV light (blue-light) emitted can actually damage our skin the same way, or even worse, as UV rays even if we’ve never stepped foot outside. All the more reason to wear sunscreen DAILY! However, Indian Ginseng has been found to be very effective in protecting the skin from cellular damage against indoor environmental stressors.
What to note?
- It is important to note that although ginseng does help with de-puffing the eye area and minimising dark circles, the results won’t be extremely significant for those with chronic dark circles and eye-bags. We recommend visiting a dermatologist or a skin clinic for fillers or laser procedures.
- Although ginseng does suit all skin types, it is best recommended for mature skin looking to combat ageing skin.
- Like all new ingredients and products, we advise conducting a patch test prior.
Products we recommend
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
This toning solution is your gateway to radiant and brighter looking skin. Formulated with 7% glycolic acid, amino acids, aloe vera, ginseng and tasmanian pepperberry. This 7% toning solution offers mild exfoliation for improved skin radiance and visible clarity. The formula also improves the appearance of skin texture with continued use.
An instant glow enhancer, this Glow Tonic is formulated with 5% Glycolic Acid that exfoliates, brightens and smoothes skin. Further infused with Aloe Vera, Ginseng and Botanical extracts that work together to nourish and treat the skin.
Take care of your damaged skin with this refreshing Vitamin C serum that is enriched with Vitamin E, Ginseng Root Extract and Curcuma Longa Root Extract that brightens your skin and improve the skin elasticity, revealing a more radiant and youthful-looking appearance.
Mario Badescu Herbal Hydrating Serum
Refresh your skin with our lightweight gel-serum specially designed to protect against moisture loss. This unique, oil-free formula is infused with Ceramides and Extracts of Ginkgo and Ginseng to soften, hydrate, and invigorate—making this the perfect addition for all skin care regimens that require a boost of moisture to unveil a dewy, glowing complexion.
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