Asian beauty secrets have been passed down through generations, blending tradition with wisdom. Some ancient rituals can be adapted with modern products to achieve radiant, healthy skin. Read on to find out.
Rice Water: The Ancient Elixir
Rice water has been a staple in Asian beauty routines for centuries, known for its skin-brightening properties. Women in Japan and China have used it to wash their faces and hair, benefiting from its rich vitamins and minerals. See also How to Wash Long Hair: Salon Quality Asian Home Routine.
Make it: Rice water is made when you wash and rinse rice grains before it’s cooked. Rinse one cup (about 100 g) of rice in plain water. Fill a bowl with three cups of water, or between 500 and 700 ml. Collect the water in a bucket or jug. Soak the rice for two days in water.
Fake it: Products like SK-II Facial Treatment Essence, are infused with Pitera, a natural byproduct of yeast fermentation in rice. Pitera is used to make sake alcohol. This essence helps with skin regeneration, giving you that dewy, youthful glow, and it will not stink like the fermented rice water.
Green Tea: The Antioxidant Powerhouse
Green tea isn’t just for sipping. Its antioxidant-rich leaves have been used in Korean and Japanese beauty regimens to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation. The polyphenols in green tea help fight free radicals, which can cause premature aging.
Make it: Remove the leaves from one or two tea bags and moisten them with warm water. Mix the leaves with honey or aloe vera gel. Spread the mixture on the acne-prone areas of your face. Leave the mask on for 10 to 20 minutes.
Fake it: Incorporate a green tea-based toner like Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum. This serum hydrates and protects the skin, making it perfect for daily use. For a quick boost, you can also use green tea sheet masks, which provide instant hydration and calmness.
Turmeric: The Golden Spice
Turmeric, a key ingredient in Indian beauty routines, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and brightening properties. It’s been used in face masks to treat acne and even out skin tone.
Make it: Mix the following i.e. 1 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon organic apple cider vinegar, 1 1/2 tablespoon of organic honey, 1 teaspoon milk or yogurt into a paste. Apply and leave on your face for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.
Fake it: Instead of mixing turmeric powder at home, try using Kiehl’s Turmeric & Cranberry Seed Energizing Radiance Masque. This mask revitalizes and invigorates the complexion, leaving your skin looking radiant and refreshed.
Camellia Oil: The Moisturizing Miracle
Camellia oil, also known as Tsubaki oil, has been a beauty secret in Japan for centuries. Geishas used it to keep their skin soft and their hair glossy. Rich in oleic acid and vitamins, this oil penetrates deeply into the skin.
Make it: Best not to, unless you live in Japan. Collect Tsubaki seeds from the Tsubaki flower and hand picking only the best. Cold Press the Tsubaki camellia seed oil. Pulverize the Tsubaki seeds. Steam the powder crushed Tsubaki seeds for 5 minutes until the amber-coloured oil appears.
Fake it: Use products like Tatcha Gold Camellia Beauty Oil. This luxurious oil hydrates the skin without leaving it greasy, perfect for both dry and combination skin types. You can also apply a few drops to your hair for added shine and smoothness.
Red Bean: The Exfoliating Gem
Red bean paste has been traditionally used in Japan for gentle exfoliation. It helps to remove dead skin cells, leaving the skin smooth and rejuvenated. Red bean paste, known as Hong Dou Sha/红豆沙 in Chinese, is made of adzuki beans (aka red beans).
Make it: Add the Adzuki beans to a sauce pan with 2 1/2 cups of water. Bring water to a simmer and simmer for 2 hours. Remove from heat. Using either an immersion blender or regular blender, blend the beans until smooth
Fake it: Opt for a modern exfoliant like Hada Labo Gokujyun Cleansing Oil which contains red bean extract. This cleansing oil not only removes makeup but also gently exfoliates, ensuring your skin is clean and radiant.
Embracing Tradition with Innovation
Incorporating these traditional Asian beauty secrets into your modern routine can bring a touch of ancient wisdom to your skincare regimen. Enjoy the best of both worlds—timeless beauty tips and cutting-edge skincare technology. You can also save money by making the above rituals yourself the old way: the raw ingredients are indeed as cheap as chickpeas, and might already be in your kitchen store cupboards.
Any beauty routine requires consistency. Embrace these rituals, make them your own, and watch your skin transform. Let me know how it goes. If you have enjoyed this article, please share!
