We’ve stopped reading calorie counts and started focusing on groups of foods. But make no mistake: We’re not talking about losing weight, but about skin care. Here is how incorporating fermented foods in both your diet and your skin care routine can give you that healthy, glowy, beautiful skin you’ve been dreaming of.
Just like the beneficial bacteria that live in your digestive tract and gut work to neutralize toxic by-products of digestion, fermentation uses yeast, bacteria, and other little critters to break down food and larger organic plant structures into smaller, more easily absorbed molecules. Because of that, fermentation plays an essential role in enhancing the beneficial properties of natural ingredients and extracts.
When it comes to cosmetics, Korean brands have adapted the fermentation process to make it suitable for skin too. Fermented skincare ingredients have gained a cult status for being more potent and more powerful than its original state, providing, thus, even more benefits to your skin.
Here are some foods and products that will make you see by yourself how these superpowers can change your skin.
PART 1, FOOD
Kimchi
This Korean spicy, red fermented cabbage works in a unique way. It is rich in vitamins and high in gut-boosting lactobacilli bacteria, which aids your body in the digestion process. More than that, it also helps healing inflamed skin. Kimchi is packed with anti-oxidants and inhibits cell-oxidation, which slows the rate of skin aging and wrinkles.
Miso
Fermented soybean paste may not sound like the most glamorous dish, but its properties make it quite the magical superfood. According to Harvard’s School of Public Health, miso is mineral-heavy and alkalizing, which can help on the combat of a viral infection. It is full of friendly bacteria that can boost your immunity and contains an essential fatty acid that keeps your skin soft and free of pigmentation. More good news coming: Miso is easy to consume too, you simply add a teaspoon of it to tepid water, add some tofu and green onions and, voilà!
Kombucha
Of the more trendy in the fermented family, this black tea and sugar mixture has a cult following and for good reason. The bacteria and yeast colony it is fermented with consumes 90% of the sugar, leaving the drink a low-sugar product by the time you get it in your hands. Its beneficial enzymes and acids are known to improve pancreas function and detoxify the liver. As for your skin, it leads to a softer, blemish-free complexion.
Sauerkraut
Originating from central Europe, this fermented cabbage slaw is known for its dietary fiber and being loaded with vitamin C. Its high sulfur content keeps skin clean, and like kimchi, sauerkraut contains gut-boosting lactobacilli bacteria, which helps clear up acne. Half a cup of it every day is the suggested amount for someone looking to improve their skin.
PART 2: SKIN CARE COSMETICS
Fermented skincare products help by moisturizing, repairing and firming your skin, fading hyperpigmentation and brown spots, and even boosting the production of collagen. Here are some of our favorites:
Missha’s Time Revolution Night Repair New Science Activator Ampoule carries in its formula Bifida Ferment Lysatea, a fermented yeast that acts as a DNA repairing agent. It improves skin elasticity and boost hydration to plump fine lines and wrinkles and leave you with that perfect Korean glow.
Sulwhasoo Snowise EX Brightening Mask is a sheet mask soaked in fermented white ginseng for two weeks to increase the ingredient’s effectiveness at boosting circulation, brightening the skin and clearing hyperpigmentation.
SU:M37 Miracle Rose Cleansing Stick is enriched with fermented ingredients such as damask rose extract to guarantee a gentle formula that hydrates and protects your skin while cleansing it. If you have dry or sensitive skin, this may be the answer to your prayers.
Goodal’s Anti-Wrinkle Sleep Cream Pack is loaded with fermented argan and lavender oil to moisture, soothe, and calm your skin while you sleep. Its fermented-quality comes to the game also in terms of results: You can notice your fine lines disappearing within a few weeks of treatment.
Benton Fermentation Essence is a formula recommended for those with sensitive and dry skin types. It has a high concentration of fermented ingredients (galactomyces ferment filtrate 80%, bifida ferment lysate 10%) to prevent and reverse signs of aging.
+ Fermentation comes in many forms. So tell us, what’s your favorite way to take advantage of it?
