There is no single “Eastern” beauty trend, as beauty practices and preferences can vary widely across different cultures and regions in Asia. However, here are some beauty trends and practices that have been popular in various parts of Asia.
Korean
Rice Water Toner
Rice water is a natural toner that is rich in vitamins and minerals. To make it, soak a cup of rice in two cups of water for 30 minutes, then strain the water into a spray bottle. Use this rice water as a toner after cleansing.
Green Tea Mask
Green tea is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Brew a cup of green tea, let it cool, then mix it with honey and apply it to your face as a mask. Rinse off after 10-15 minutes.
Japanese
Tsubaki Oil Moisturizer
Tsubaki oil, also known as camellia oil, is a popular ingredient in Japanese skincare. Apply a few drops of tsubaki oil to your face as a moisturizer, focusing on any dry or flaky areas.
Matcha and Honey Mask
Mix one teaspoon of matcha powder with one tablespoon of honey to create a hydrating and antioxidant-rich mask. Apply to your face and leave on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off.
Seaweed and Rice Mask
Seaweed is a popular ingredient in Japanese skincare, known for its hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties. Mix one teaspoon of seaweed powder with one teaspoon of rice flour and enough water to make a paste. Apply to your face and leave on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.
Yuzu Bath Soak
Yuzu is a citrus fruit that is popular in Japanese culture for its uplifting and relaxing properties. Add a few slices of fresh yuzu to your bathwater for a soothing and aromatic soak.
Nepalese
Neem Leaves and Rosewater Toner
Neem leaves are known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Boil a handful of neem leaves in water and let the water cool. Strain the water and mix with rosewater to create a toner. Apply to your face with a cotton pad after cleansing.
Mustard Oil Massage
Mustard oil is a common ingredient in Nepalese skincare, known for its hydrating and antibacterial properties. Warm up some mustard oil and massage it onto your face for 5-10 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
Malaysia
Pandan Leaf Steam
Pandan leaves are a popular ingredient in Malay cuisine, and they are also used in skincare for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Boil a few pandan leaves in a pot of water and let the steam hit your face for 10-15 minutes. This can help to open up pores and hydrate the skin.
Lemongrass Facial Steam
Lemongrass is a popular ingredient in Malay cuisine, and it is also used in skincare for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Boil a few stalks of lemongrass in a pot of water and let the steam hit your face for 10-15 minutes. This can help to cleanse the skin and unclog pores.
Thailand
Tamarind and Honey Face Pack
Tamarind contains alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) that can help to exfoliate and brighten the skin, while honey is a natural humectant that can help to hydrate the skin. Soak tamarind pulp in water for a few hours, then mash and strain the pulp. Mix the tamarind juice with honey to create a paste. Apply to your face and leave on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.
Philippines
Coconut Oil and Calamansi Juice Face Mask
Coconut oil is a popular ingredient in Filipino skincare for its moisturizing and antibacterial properties, while calamansi juice (a type of citrus fruit) is rich in vitamin C and can help to brighten the skin. Mix together coconut oil and calamansi juice to create a mask. Apply to your face and leave on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.
WORD OF CAUTION
These traditional home remedies have been used for generations in various Asian countries to maintain healthy and beautiful skin. However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s skin is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Please consult a dermatologist before trying out these remedies.
