Black ginseng is a core part of traditional medicine in East Asia for centuries. The dried form of its root provides several benefits, from treating diseases to serving as an aphrodisiac, anti-diabetes and stimulant agent. Back then, it was used to treat boils, swelling, bruises, sores and other skin ailments. In the recent years, it is fast becoming one of the most popular herbs in the world.
This might be your first time hearing of black ginseng as a part of skin care, but this has actually been a staple in K-beauty for years—a standout in skin care products like serums, eye creams and sheet masks. It is teeming with vitamins and minerals, particularly ginsenosides, which revitalizes and reactivates skin cells. Its key benefits include anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation, skin protection and reducing signs of aging.
Top 6 Skin Benefits of Black Ginseng
- Balance oil. We all love to have a natural glow, and not the oily, shiny slick kind of glow. Whether you skin is on the dried or oilier side, the antioxidant and moisture-retention properties of black ginseng can help.
- Banish skin dullness. Ginseng contains coffee-like energizing ingredients, which explains why it is also one of the most common ingredients in energy drinks. But side from keeping you awake, its topical application can also wake your face up. More research is still needed on this claim, but a bit of topical ginseng can brighten your complexion and banish dullness.
- Blur fine lines and wrinkles. Black ginseng boosts circulation in blood vessels, particularly forming up the skin and increasing collagen synthesis. Clinical trials have shown that ginseng used topically or orally diminished the appearance of wrinkles. Additionally, research has shown that ginseng extract boosts skin hydration and prevent the formation of new lines and wrinkles.
- Brightens and whitens skin. Some people might want to lighten their skin because of issues like melasma, hyperpigmentation and discoloration. A small study showed that the skin lightened among participants who used black ginseng cream twice a day for two months.
- Get rid of redness. Research has shown that ginseng contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate puffiness, redness and acne. It can even help certain skin conditions, improving symptoms like inflammation among people with eczema.
- Give the skin some glow. The antioxidant properties of black ginseng help protect the skin from environmental pollutants. Without this shield, pollutants can accumulate in the pores. This causes melanocyte production that leads to hyperpigmentation and other skin issues.
Adding Black Ginseng to Your Skin Care Routine
Because ginseng can be found in face cleansers, masks, and serums, it is an easy ingredient that you can slip into your regular routine. You can start with a face cleanser, known for its balancing and moisturizing properties; sheet mask to replenish the skin; eye cream to fight morning puffiness; face serum for targeting a wide range of concerns, including fine lines and discoloration; and face cream with its hydrating properties.
Numerous research has shown that ginseng is a good ingredient for the skin. When applied topically, it can reduce the appearance of fine lines, boost hydration, reduce inflammation and protect the skin barrier. Black ginseng is beneficial for all skin types, although it is always a good idea to patch test new products. Talk to your dermatologist if you experience any kind of issues while using black ginseng for skin care.
