The up & coming botanical ingredient that is compared to Cica
Considered to be the new buzz-worthy ingredient in K-Skincare. Mugwort has now joined hands with infamous natural ingredients like Centella Asiatica, Snail Mucin and Bee extract to name a few. You might have already noticed a few brands gaining recognition due to their mugwort-infused products like AXIS-Y or I’m From. If you haven’t heard of the herb mugwort, here’s what you need to know.
Mugwort is a weed commonly used in traditional Asian herbal medicine, food and even herbal baths, especially in the Korean culture. Well known in K-beauty, Mugwort is known as (쑥), pronounced ssuk. It also goes by the name Artemisia Princeps. Mugwort’s healing powers have been known for centuries and is rumoured to have been used since the first Korean Dynasty due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Its medicinal and healing uses include treating indigestion, alleviate muscle aches, boost blood circulation and even soothe menstrual cramps. Other than supporting the overall health of the body, Mugwort is also great for our skin’s health due to its ample antioxidants. Some compare Mugwort to Tea Tree due to their similar benefits but Mugwort is said to have a better scent, leaning towards a sage-like scent.
Benefits
Brings down inflammation
- Mugwort is a great to help soothe and heal any inflammation like overly sensitized skin or redness. Chronic skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, atopic dermatitis and even acneic skin will find solace using mugwort-infused topical treatments.
Calms irritation
- Other than inflammation, mugwort can also soothe irritated skin caused by allergic reactions, burns and even bug bites. Hence, the next time you experience a sunburn, maybe try applying a mugwort product to help calm the skin.
Antibacterial
- Mugwort possesses antibacterial properties that targets and kills bacteria, including acne-causing bacteria. Hence, making it a perfect anti-acne ingredient. Plus its healing benefits, Mugwort also helps with the post-acne healing process, preventing scarring or future infection.
Boost skin moisture
- Rich in Vitamin E, Mugwort works to nourish and hydrate the skin, especially dry, dehydrated and sensitive skin. Over time and use, your skin will look brighter, more even and radiate that inner-glow.
Enhances skin barrier
- Vitamin E also strengthens the skin barrier, which can lead to better moisture retention and less chances of polluted toxins from entering the skin and causing irritation and oxidative stress damage.
What to note?
- Like with all new products, we advise conducting a patch test prior to avoid an allergic or sensitive reaction all over the face. If reaction occurs, discontinue use immediately.
Products we recommend and where to find them
AXIS-Y Mugwort Pore Clarifying Wash Off Pack
This wash off mask packs 61% Mugwort extract and features Adzuki Beans granules for an added physical exfoliation. This mask pack works to unclog pores of any impurities, soothes inflammation or irritation and improves the appearance of skin tone and texture.
Dear, Klairs Fundamental Ampule Mist
With Malaysia’s hot weather we sometimes opt for lighter consistency moisturizers and sometimes it doesn’t deliver enough moisture for our skin. And when that happens, this is where facial mist is your best friend. This facial mist by Dear, Klairs contains Green Tea, Rice, Cucumber, Okra and Mugwort extract for intensive hydration and antioxidant care. Spray a couple spritz at any time of day to refresh the skin and can be used as a toner too!
Some By Mi Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Cream
This moisturizer is truly an all encompassing miracle cream. Works best to repair, soothe and strengthen the skin with Tea Tree, Cica, Snail Mucin, 5 kinds of ceramide and peptides and Mugwort extract.
The Face Shop Herb Day 365 Cleansing Foam Mungbeans & Mugwort
A daily cleansing foam that is formulated with Mung Bean and Mugwort extract that are rich in protein and essential minerals. It helps to remove skin residues, smooth and purify the skin.
Thanks for reading this blog and we hope this has perked your interest in Mugwort and be on the lookout for them. If you have any questions, feel free to join the conversation below and we’ll do our best to answer them!
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