Mugwort has been a favorite skin care ingredient in K-Beauty for hundreds of years. Find out why it’s an excellent ingredient for sensitive skin types and what its primary benefits are. We’ve also called out some of our favorite mugwort picks!
If you’re a skin care junkie, chances are you’ve already heard of the Buzzy K-Beauty ingredient mugwort. It’s been having a moment for a while now, and it doesn’t look like it’s going away anytime soon. The ingredient has gained popularity specifically because of its ability to target redness, sensitivity, and dryness — something that many of us are dealing with in a world with heightened pollution and increased irritants.
RELATED: How Squalane Can Give You Baby Soft, Glowy Skin
Mugwort: A Long-Cherished Ingredient for Sensitive Skin
Also known as artemisia — or ssuk in Korean — mugwort has a long and rich history in Korean medicine and skin care. It’s known as a healing herb for its antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, and has become a key ingredient used in food, medicine, and even in herbal baths at Korean bathhouses to help detox and soothe the body.
According to experts, mugwort’s soothing benefits make it a top-choice ingredient for folks who have rosacea, eczema, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and even acne. The ingredient’s soothing properties is the main reason why it’s commonly found in Korean skin care products that target sensitive skin.
All that said, even if you don’t have sensitive or acne-prone skin, mugwort is be worth adding to your skincare routine because it’s also quite moisturizing and can help brighten skin for a more luminous complexion. In fact, mugwort has been compared to tea tree and vitamin C for its antioxidants and bacteria-fighting benefits.
Mugwort Skin Care Products to Try
If you’re keen on trying mugwort yourself, we recommend starting with one of these Klog-approved picks.
For those looking for a soothing and hydrating essence, we recommend trying this healing and nourishing product from popular brand I’m From. The formula contains 100% mugwort extract, a herb that has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in antioxidants. This mugwort essence also stimulates collagen production, which plumps up the skin and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines.
For sensitive skin that’s in desperate need of relief and moisture, try this calming cream from I’m From. Formulated with 73.55% mugwort extract, this cream’s fast observing and leaves no sticky or heavy residue. The result is an deep nourishment that works to moisturize and hydrate!
