Trendy Alert: Mugwort Benefits For Skin

There's a new "it" ingredient in skincare and it's mugwort! 

If you are a skincare junkie, you know that Koreans are never wrong when it comes to skincare, that’s why mugwort is all the rage right now! 

From soothing dry and irritated skin to treating acne-prone skin, this buzz-worthy ingredient has been used in traditional Korean medicine and now it has become one of the trendiest ingredients in the K-beauty industry. 

But what are the benefits of mugwort for skin? Is it worth incorporating into your skincare routine or it is just another Korean trend that will pass sooner rather than later? 

Keep reading to find out!

Mugwhat?: WTH is mugwort?

Let’s be honest: If you ask any Westerner why they think mugwort is good for skin, they're likely to give you a blank stare.

Mugwort, also known as Artemisia Vulgaris, has a rich history in traditional Asian medicine, particularly within Chinese and Korean cultures, where it has been used for centuries in rituals and teas for its health benefits. It's a resilient weed—*don’t panic here, it is not what you think*—that grows in many gardens, characterized by long, slender leaves and small, yellow flowers. While it’s often seen as a nuisance by gardeners due to its invasive tendencies, it offers remarkable benefits in skincare.

But you know what they say: never judge a book by its cover. Mugwort is actually a powerhouse ingredient widely embraced in K-beauty, contributing to that enviable glowy skin we all admire!

Research suggests that mugwort is rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and essential oils, which help protect skin from damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, it contains a compound called artemisinin, known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes mugwort a go-to for soothing irritated skin, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing by stimulating the production of new skin cells—ideal for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin.

Benefits of mugwort for skin

If your skin needs a little extra TLC, mugwort skincare products will become your next bestie! This versatile plant is effective for all skin types and boasts a multitude of skincare benefits. Here are our faves:

1. Anti-inflammatory properties

Struggling with inflammation? Mugwort might just be the miracle worker you’ve been looking for! This healing herb contains flavonoids, terpenoids, and tannins—compounds known to decrease inflammation and promote new cell growth.

Since it effectively treats skin irritations, mugwort has become a favored ingredient for those battling conditions like eczema, acne, and psoriasis.

2. Naturally kills bacteria

If you're like us, you've probably tried everything to banish acne—lotions, potions, antibiotics...you name it. But have you heard about mugwort? Loaded with antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, it’s not just another plant!

Mugwort contains artemisinin, a powerful antibacterial agent that disrupts bacterial cell proteins, leading to their breakdown and death. This makes it an outstanding natural remedy for treating breakouts.

3. Ideal for sensitive skin types

If you have sensitive skin, finding non-irritating products can be challenging—this is where mugwort shines. Known for its soothing benefits, it’s perfect for those suffering from allergies or chemical sensitivities.

Mugwort helps calm the skin and reduce redness, making it a must-have for anyone with sensitive skin.

4. Moisturizing properties

Is there anything mugwort can’t do? Besides being fantastic for sensitive skin, it's also beneficial for dehydrated and cracked skin. Mugwort boosts blood circulation, helping your skin retain moisture and fend off premature aging signs.

5. Rich in antioxidants

We all know about the skin-protective benefits of vitamin E and vitamin C, but did you know mugwort can bolster your skin barrier in similar ways?

As a great source of vitamins E and C, mugwort protects your skin cells from damage due to free radicals, pollution, and UV rays, while also promoting collagen stimulation to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This is particularly beneficial for mature skin.

6. Antifungal properties

Who knew a little plant could wield such potent powers? Although scientific evidence is still developing, mugwort is believed to contain compounds effective against certain fungal infections. One study identified a compound from mugwort capable of killing a skin-infecting fungus.

Though more research is needed to fully validate these claims, the potential antifungal properties of mugwort are worth noting.

Our Fave Mugwort Skincare Products

If you have a sensitive skin type, suffer from acne breakouts, or have irritation, here’s something you need to know: you can find mugwort in soothing Korean skincare products! 

The compounds can go from mugwort essence, mugwort extract, and even mugwort powder, all of them safe for all skin types and with the amazing skincare benefits of this healing herb. 

So, if you are ready to include mugwort skincare products in your routine, here are our top 3 K-beauty products with mugwort: 

1. Beauty of Joseon Centella Asiatica Calming Mask

If you are obsessed with K-beauty, you must have heard everything there is to know about Centella Asiatica: soothing and calming effects, ideal for sensitive skin, and with protective powers against inflammation. There’s no wonder why a CICA and mugwort mask is such a good idea! 

This super-charged sheet mask is here to save the day for your sensitive skin! Packed with 15% CICQ extract, 3 types of hyaluronic acids, and our “it” ingredient *aka mugwort essence*. this mask is a powerful weapon against irritation and sensitivity. 

Plus, it is suitable for all skin types! So, no matter if you have dry skin or acne-prone skin, this product will work wonders for you! 

2. G9SKIN Honey Eye Patch

Cause your eyes' skin can be inflamed too! 

The G9SKIN Honey Eye Patch gives you the best of both worlds: the moisturizing benefits of honey and the anti-inflammatory properties of mugwort, resulting in de-puff eyes without those annoying dark circles. 

This is a suitable treatment for all skin types and you can include them in your skincare routine 3 times a week. 

3. Etude House - 0.2mm Therapy Air Mask - Artemisia

Etude House's 0.2mm Therapy Air Mask in Artemisia is the perfect way to give your skin a little pick-me-up! 

This mask is perfect for those who are looking to soothe and relieve their skin of stress. The Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract *aka Korea mugwort* helps to clear and brighten the skin, leaving you with a radiant complexion. 

Additionally, it is super thin, so you'll barely even feel it on your face! Plus, it's easy to use - just peel it off and apply it to your clean, dry face. Leave on for 10-20 minutes, then remove and discard. 

Your skin will thank you for using this mask!

Where to find mugwort skincare products

 So, what’s the verdict? Is mugwort worth all the hype? We think so! 

This ingredient is a Korean skincare fave right now and it is time for you to try it and enjoy all the mugwort benefits for skin. 

If you want to jump on the bandwagon and try out this trendy ingredient for yourself, be sure to check out our shop for some of our favorite mugwort goodies and more! 

And don’t forget to tell us what you think – we love hearing from our readers!