Let us embark on a brief journey to explore skincare rituals from around the world; each steeped in cultural tradition and intended to achieve holistic well-being.
In our quest for flawless skin, it's easy to get caught up in the latest trends and products. The reality is though, that some of the most effective skincare solutions have been around for centuries. Much of it includes engaging with your body mindfully, and ritualistically, rather than simply slapping on products. Cultures around the world have long understood the intimate connection between skincare and holistic health, engaging in practices that prioritize not just our bodies, but our minds and souls.
Japanese Skincare
Our journey begins in Japan, where skincare is viewed as a sacred ritual. Japanese beauty traditions emphasize simplicity and mindfulness, with a focus on gentle cleansing and nourishing the skin from within. Examples of this range from the double cleansing method, a process that involves using an oil-based cleanser, followed by a water-based cleanser to thoroughly remove impurities, makeup, and sunscreen from the skin… to the traditional practice of using rice water as a skincare remedy.
Ayurvedic Beauty
Ayurvedic skincare rituals incorporate herbal remedies, massage techniques, and dietary recommendations to promote holistic well-being. Turmeric masks are healing for the skin, with some of its many benefits being the reduction of inflammation and a brighter complexion). Another common practice is that of Abhyanga (self-massage with warm oil) which nourishes the skin and promotes circulation. Many Ayurvedic beauty rituals aim to promote balance and harmony.
Korean Skincare
South Korea, home to the 10-step skincare routine. Mainstream Korean skincare rituals are about achieving "glass skin" – a flawless, luminous complexion. This multi-step regimen typically includes cleansing (an important step), exfoliating, toning, essence, serum, sheet mask, eye cream, moisturizer, sunscreen, and occasionally sleeping mask or night cream. Facial massage is a common practice, utilized to promote lymphatic drainage, improving elasticity and skin tone.
The beauty of skincare lies in the rituals and traditions from around the world, that precede our modern methods and techniques. Knowing the various approaches to skincare gives a nuanced understanding of the intimate connection between outer beauty and inner well-being. Which is critical for skincare.
Citations:
Hirose, M., et al. "Cleansing efficacy of skin cleansing products." Skin Research and Technology, vol. 14, no. 3, 2008, pp. 316-321.
Chopra, D., & Simon, D. "The Seven Spiritual Laws of Yoga_ A Practical Guide to Healing Body, Mind, and Spirit." Harmony, 2004.
Jun, M., et al. "The consumption of Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer)–infused chicken soup improves postprandial glycemic response_ A randomized, double‐blind, crossover study." Food Science & Nutrition, vol. 7, no. 5, 2019, pp. 1665-1671.