The Rising Trend of Ancient Asian Beauty Practices
If you have been on any social media platform recently, you have seen how skincare routines have been flooding all our news feeds. It has become a more important aspect in our daily lives here in the United States, however in Asian countries, skincare rituals have reigned for thousands of years. Many of the skincare “hacks” seen lately stem from ancient Asian beauty rituals that have been passed down from generations. The beautiful complexion of the people of Asia is said not to be achieved solely by products you apply to the skin, but from within and how you handle your body. Here are a few traditional Asian beauty rituals that I practice to heal not only my outer appearance, but to heal my inner self.
Gua Sha and Jade Rollers
The use of gua shas and jade rollers has been the most seen skincare practice since the beginning of its trend on TikTok. In Asian culture, the shape of the face is what typically deems someone’s beauty. Gua shas and jade rollers are used as sculpting methods that reduce puffiness and redness and cause lymphatic drainage to further sculpt the face. I strive to use my jade gua sha every night or at least a couple days a week. Ever since I started this practice, I have seen results on my jaw line and around my eyes.
Green Tea
Tea is a very important drink in Asian culture, specifically green tea. Not only is it packed full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, but it is a natural source of caffeine. Green tea helps to boost metabolism and is said to have a curative effect on the body. I try to drink 3-4 cups a week or mix a green tea powder into my smoothie!
Turmeric
Turmeric has been seen in Asian medicine for centuries and has many benefits for your overall health. It is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory said to improve skin conditions, treat diseases, and even help people who struggle with depression. When I am not feeling too well, I drink Pukka Turmeric Active tea or Pukka Three Ginger tea which aids my immune system. I also mix turmeric powder, yogurt, and honey to create a facemask whenever I find my skin breaking out.
Rice Water
Using rice water to cleanse your skin has helped many on their journey to clear skin. It is a very ancient practice because of its many benefits such as brightening and improving the texture of skin, soothing inflammation, and toning. The simplest way to apply rice water is using a cotton ball! I dip my cotton ball in a bowl of rice water and apply it all over my face and neck.
Snail Mucin
As interesting as the idea of putting snail mucin all over your face is, the practice truly does miracles for the skin. Snail mucus naturally contains hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, and allantoin which all help to generate collagen, tighten and moisturize, and slow down the aging of skin. I use COXRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence 2-3 times a week!
