A Korean Journey: Unveiling the True Lessons of Skincare and Cultural Identity

First Person April 10, 2023

MY TRIP TO KOREA AND THE TRUE LESSON OF SKINCARE

Swellness is a series exploring the health and wellness topics we don't often discuss. This journey took me beyond my initial belief that skin care was merely an extension of Korean culture for me; it taught me about self-examination, superiority, and the deeper meaning of embracing one's heritage in today's globalized world.

Growing up with Korean skincare practices before they became a worldwide obsession, I wore sheet masks regularly and used ginseng-infused serums long before they were sold on fancy shelves at luxury beauty boutiques. My mother's nightly routine was akin to a ritual, her glossy cheek kissed my skin goodnight as she used snl extract and high-quality sunscreen dly - the Beauty of Joseon. I felt Korean enough by using skincare products steeped in my culture.

However, I now realize this perception was misguided. The journey through Korea opened my eyes not just to the beauty rituals but also the deeper lessons about self-love and cultural pride.

1. Sunscreen is Different in Korea: Sun protection has taken a step beyond the traditional SPF formula. Korean sunscreens are revered for their skin-benefitting ingredients like centella asiatica extract, that help soothe and strengthen skin barrier while providing broad-spectrum UVAUVB protection.

2. Skin Prep Matters More Than We Think: It’s not just about cleansing your face; it's about understanding the unique needs of your skin type. Prepping your skin with the right cleanser or essence prepares it to receive the benefits of subsequent products more effectively.

3. The Masking Method is Essential: Korean skincare enthusiasts have made sheet masks a ritual. They are an effective way to infuse targeted actives deeply into the skin, from brightening to hydrating and soothing deping on your skin's needs that day.

4. Calming the Skin is Key for Better Results: After years of exposure to harsh weather conditions or sensitive skin reactions, Korean skincare emphasizes soothing ingredients like centella asiatica extract and green tea extract that can help stabilize skin health and improve overall texture.

5. Beyond Products - Embracing Cultural Heritage: It's not just about the products we use; it’s also about how they connect us to our roots. Incorporating Korean skincare practices into your routine is a form of self-love, embracing the beauty standards that have been passed down through generations and celebrating them.

My trip to Korea wasn't merely a journey of discovery in skincare but one of personal growth and cultural acceptance. It taught me that while Western cultures might overshadow traditional Asian practices globally, there's immense value in rediscovering our heritage within ourselves. We often overlook the power and wisdom inherent in our ancestral traditions when we rush into adopting products from all over the world.

This experience has been a profound reminder to not only cherish my Korean cultural roots but also to integrate them thoughtfully with what I learn from global beauty practices. After all, skincare is personal and deeply rooted in individual needs, heritage, and self-expression.
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