Artemisia/Mugwort For Skin: The Trendiest Ingredient in Korea

Mugwort is one of those underrated herbs that you may have heard about, but don't know much about. It's worth getting to know though because mugwort skin care products have some amazing benefits for your skin! 

So if you're looking for a natural way to improve the look and feel of your skin, keep reading. I'll share all the details on how mugwort can help you achieve beautiful skin.

What's mugwort good for?

Mugwort, or Artemisia Vulgaris, is a plant that has been used for centuries in traditional Korean medicine and recent beauty routines. The leaves and flowers of the mugwort plant are used to make teas, tinctures, and salves, while its extract is used to create skincare products. 

This underestimated plant is a rich source of antioxidants, which can shield the skin against free radicals. Additionally, it is a natural anti-inflammatory agent that can fight the inflammation caused by acne and other skin conditions. 

Pros & Cons of using mugwort skin care products

Pros

• It is anti-inflammatory and can help to reduce redness and irritation.
• Another of the mugwort skin benefits is that it has antibacterial properties that can help to fight acne and other skin infections.
• Aids to compressing and diminishing the appearance of pores.
• Protects skin from damage caused by free radicals.
• It is a natural skin toner that can help to brighten and even out skin tone.
  

Cons

• In rare cases, mugwort can cause an allergic reaction or skin irritation
• Mugwort can also interact with certain medications, so be sure to speak with your healthcare provider before using it if you're taking any medications.

Mugwort Ingredient Specifications

Clean

Mugwort extract is a clean and green ingredient. It is non-toxic and non-irritating, making it a great choice for all skin types. 

Vegan

This ingredient is vegan-friendly since its extract comes from the dried leaves of the mugwort plant, which is a member of the daisy family.

Pregnancy safe

There is some concern that mugwort may be unsafe for pregnant women. However, there is no research indicating that it is unsafe to use mugwort skin care products topically while expecting. 

All in all, it is better to talk to your doctor before including them in your routine.

Breastfeeding safe

There is a lack of research on the safety of using artemisia/mugwort for skin while breastfeeding. Until more is known, it is best to avoid using them.

Active ingredient

Mugwort is an active ingredient in some skincare products since it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to soothe and protect the skin.

Comedogenic

There is a lot of conflicting information out there about the comedogenic potential of mugwort. Some sources say that it is non-comedogenic, while others claim that it can be mildly comedogenic for some people. So it is better to do a patch test, especially if you are acne-prone

EWG (Environment Working Group) Score 

One of the artemisia benefits for skin is that it has an EWG (Environment Working Group) score of 0. This means that it is not harmful to the environment and is safe to use.

CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) Rating: A

Mugwort has a CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) Rating of "Safe” or “A”, so it is considered safe for use in cosmetics. 

PRECAUTIONS: Things to know before using this ingredient 

Artemisia/mugwort for skin has been in the spotlight for some time, however, the ingredient is still new to the skincare world, so there is a lot of misinformation about it. Here are the things you should know before including it in your routine: 

When to use mugwort?

You can include mugwort skin care products in your morning and nighttime skincare routines. However, it is more beneficial to use it during the day since its antioxidant properties can protect you against free radicals and sun damage.

What skin type is mugwort good for?

Mugwort skin benefits can work wonders for all skin types. For oily and acne-prone skin, the ingredient has antibacterial properties and can reduce sebum production. On the other hand, its anti-inflammatory effects can help irritated skin, while it can hydrate dry skin and diminish the size of pores. 

What you can’t mix with mugwort?

There are some skincare ingredients that you should avoid mixing with mugwort. These include acids, retinoids, and vitamin C. This is because mugwort extract can make these ingredients more potent and increase the risk of skin irritation. If you want to use mugwort in your skincare routine, be sure to mix it with other soothing and calming ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera. 

Top Picks 

Best mugwort products now

• BEAUTY OF JOSEON Centella Asiatica Calming Mask
• G9SKIN Honey Eye Patch
• Missha Time Revolution Artemisia Treatment Essence
• Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

FAQ’s

Do you still have doubts that need to be clarified? Keep reading: 

Are mugwort and artemisia the same thing? 

Yes, mugwort and artemisia are the same. The difference is that “mugwort” is the common name, while “artemisia vulgaris” is the scientific name of the plant. 

How can you include mugwort skin care products?

You can find mugwort in many types of skincare products, including toners, spot treatments, and face masks. So you can include them however you want and depending on your needs!

Is mugwort beneficial for acne-prone skin?

Mugwort extract contains natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that may help to reduce inflammation and clear up breakouts. Additionally, the essential oils in mugwort have been shown to have skin-lightening effects, which can help to improve the appearance of acne scars.

Is mugwort beneficial for dry skin?

Oh yes! Mugwort helps to restore the natural oils that are lost and cause dryness. 

Tips & Tricks

• If you are using mugwort, don’t overdo it with other antioxidants and acids, like vitamin c or glycolic acid. 
• Use it preferably during the mornings and always wear sunscreen on top of it.