10 Beauty Secrets That Asian Women Use to Maintain Their Youthful Looks
If you look at some famous Asian celebrities, you may often notice some features that many of them share — flawless and luminous skin. As we get more acquainted with Eastern culture, especially through television and music, beauty tips are also widely spread. Many of these hacks have been passed down for generations, and many women use them to achieve silky-smooth skin.
We at 5-Minute Crafts wondered about the secrets behind the youthful looks that many Asian people have and decided to share our findings with you.
❗ This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Seek guidance from your doctor regarding your health and medical condition.
1. A healthy lifestyle
It can seem a bit obvious, but our daily habits can affect our skin greatly. The Asian diet is often called a health-healthy diet because it is low in fat and high in fiber with whole grains and rice. A healthy lifestyle also consists of:
- Maintaining a healthy diet of fruit, vegetables, and protein
- Eating less refined carbohydrates and unhealthy fats
- Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated
- Managing stress properly
- Getting enough sleep
- Finding time for things you enjoy doing
Another tip: The Asian diet also consists of soy and tofu, which can be beneficial to your skin.
2. Rice water
Rice water is widely popular now and has proven to have some benefits when applied to the skin. Although many people use it for brightening their complexion, there is no hard evidence that it’s truly effective. However, some studies suggest that fermented rice water indeed helps when it comes to increasing collagen in the skin, preventing wrinkles, and protecting skin from sun damage (when combined with other products). Rice water also helps repair damaged hair that has split ends.
3. Face brush
Using a face brush will remove the top layer of dead cells on the skin while improving the complexion. It can stimulate circulation and reduce wrinkles, making the skin look glowy. Just be sure not to exfoliate too aggressively or too often, as it can cause damage and inflammation. Asian women like to include this in their routine by prepping the skin with a splash of warm water.
4. Rice and honey scrub
Rice is widely used in Asia and it’s present in many beauty products. The good news is that you can make the exfoliator at home for your face, which is very easy. You’ll just need a cup of blended rice powder (but not completely blended — make sure that some grains are left) and 1 or 2 tablespoons of honey. The honey is good when it comes to removing dead skin, improving the complexion, soothing breakouts, and reviving dry and dull skin.
5. SPF protection
Most people in Asia are not fans of tanning. Wearing sunscreen is important, even during a cloudy day or if you are spending most of your time indoors. The UV rays can come in contact with your skin through a window. Using a cream with SPF will not just reduce signs of aging, such as wrinkles and dark spots, but it will also lower the risk of skin cancer.
6. Yogurt mask
Another step that Asian ladies follow to achieve nourished skin is the yogurt mask. If you’re making a yogurt mask at home, it’s best to use plain yogurt without any flavors added. You can add some other ingredients, like honey, turmeric, or aloe vera. Be sure to clean your face properly, apply the mask, and leave it on for up to 15 minutes. Yogurt can help with locking the moisture in your skin, brightening the complexion, and reducing fine lines.
7. Sheet mask
Many women in Asia use sheet masks. When using a sheet mask, you should consider the ingredients that are in the mask, their purpose, and your skin type. Sheet masks can be very helpful in soothing sensitive skin and can hydrate and moisturize it directly. It’s best to search for the kinds that are free of fragrances, dyes, parabens, and harsh chemicals. If you have a specific issue, you can check the following list to see which ingredients could work for you:
- For dry skin: sheet masks that contain hyaluronic acid
- For fine lines: ones with anti-oxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, resveratrol, and ferulic acid)
- For reducing acne and blemishes: masks with salicylic acid and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)
- For rosacea: sheet masks with niacinamide
- For dark spots and pigmentation: ingredients like soy, kojic acid, tranexamic acid, and licorice root extract
- For oily skin: salicylic acid
8. Serum
Using a skin serum is another popular thing in Asian beauty culture and a great way to amp up your skincare routine. Serum can have numerous benefits, such as:
- Quick absorption
- A soothing effect on sensitive skin
- A reduction in the appearance of aging signs
- Protection from skin damage
- Not leaving a heavy or greasy feeling on the skin
9. Plant-based oil
The use of plant-based oils, like olive, coconut, or shea butter, is popular in Asia when it comes to maintaining a proper beauty regimen. Aside from their moisturizing effects, they are also popular because they don’t contain chemicals that often cause an allergic reaction and are budget-friendly. However, before applying oil to your face, it’s best to consult with your doctor.
Another thing you should pay attention to is when to use oils. Because natural oils intensify the effects of radiation, it’s better to apply them when not exposed to direct sunlight or in the morning, in a thin layer, at least 15 minutes before going out in the sun.
10. Jade roller
This little gadget is causing a lot of hype lately and became very popular among beauticians around the world. It is said that it was invented in China during the Qing Dynasty. Today, the roller is usually made from jade or rose quartz crystal, and some benefits of using it may include:
- Improved facial circulation
- Reduced puffiness
- Relaxed facial muscles and mood improvement
- A cooling effect
- Can help with applying products to your skin
Bonus: Korean actresses share their beauty hacks.
Kim Hee Ae is a South Korean actress who has starred in movies like The World of the Married, Secret Affair, and many others. In one of her interviews, she said that getting enough sleep, avoiding the sun, and having fresh juice in the morning helps her a lot.
Kim Sun Ah is another famous South Korean actress with a prominent career. When asked about her secrets to maintaining beautiful skin, she revealed she sticks to exercising regularly and using calming products on her skin. She often uses face masks to soothe her skin, especially when the days are hot.
What do you think about the Asian beauty routine? Do you already use some of these tricks?