We all know about super ingredients such as Ginseng and Cica in many beauty products. But did you know there is one special ingredient that’s just got to be Korea’s best-kept secret; of course, it’s Beauty Insider and we’re spilling the tea. It’s time we talk about Mugwort and why you need to include it in your regimen along with product recommendations by the brand that are experts in them, I’M FROM.

Skincare plays an incredibly vital role in caring for our biggest organ that unsurprisingly takes on the most environmental damage. Hence, it is why using products that can care for, protect and repair while keeping up with our busy lifestyle is actually what we need. Super ingredients like Mugwort that not only get the job done but are versatile enough to be incorporated in many formulations are perfect for the everyday person. So, let’s hop on and find out more about it.

What Exactly IS Mugwort And What Does It Do?

Mugwort is a type of weed plant; it belongs to the Artemisia family, which also includes wormwood. While there are a variety of skin soothing solutions available, ranging from grapeseed oil to colloidal oatmeal; however, the somewhat unappealing-named ingredient actually can be a serious game-changer for those who desire better and healthier skin.

Mugwort is a therapeutic plant in Korea well-known for its antibacterial, antifungal, and skin-protective functions. Also known as ssuk, it is said to have been responsible for the founding of the first Korean kingdom. Hwanung, the son of the “Lord of Heaven,” locked a bear and a tiger in a cave with some Mugwort and garlic and commanded them to stay there for 100 days, according to Korean folklore. After 21 days, the bear had had enough, but he remained patient and was transformed into a lady named Hwanung, who subsequently gave birth to Dangun, the founder of the Gojoseon Dynasty.

In our modern days, it has long been utilised for medical and health purposes in Korean culture. Mugwort tea is commonly used by Korean women to relieve menstruation cramps, thus proving its capabilities in healing. It’s also known for its anti-inflammatory and calming effects, as well as its aiding properties.

The Wonder Benefits Of Including Mugwort In Your Skincare

The healing and nourishing characteristics of this versatile plant are the reason for its popularity. It is particularly beneficial to sensitive and dry skin, as well as oily or acne-prone skin. When it comes to acne, the antibacterial and antifungal characteristics fight acne while also healing and soothing the damaged skin.

Mugwort’s antibacterial properties are strong enough to destroy germs and cure outbreaks. It also has anti-inflammatory qualities, which help to relieve dry and irritated skin. Mugwort is excellent for those with skin problems including eczema and psoriasis because these substances help reduce redness and itching. Additionally, it contains vitamin E, which aids in moisture retention and keeps the skin supple and healthy.

Moreover, Mugwort contains antioxidants that act as a barrier to our skin. This barrier can assist to shield our skin from damaging UV radiation. Another fascinating truth is that Mugwort may actually increase the production of collagen in our skin, which minimises the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Now, that’s what we call a wonder weed!

The I’M FROM Mugwort Series

Many skin care solutions on the market promise to employ the most cutting-edge skincare technologies to miraculously transform your skin in a short amount of time. Most of these items either contain a long list of unpronounceable artificial and chemically generated chemicals, or they simply don’t deliver on their promises.

This is where the Mugwort line by K-beauty titans, I’M FROM, truly shines!

I’m From goes back to nature because they believe that nature provides. They also believe that Korea has some of the most natural and healthy botanical ingredients that deliver real benefits to our skin. And in respecting nature, the company ensures that the brand is strictly cruelty-free and practises full transparency on all their ingredients, as well as the provenance of their key ingredients and the name of the farm where they were collected.

1. I’M FROM Mugwort Mask

A premium wash-off mask that contains 2.1% mugwort from Ganghwa County to deeply hydrate, soothe skin and relieve skin concerns such as skin irritation, oiliness and acne. This paste-like formation which also includes green tea rose, and chamomile extract helps to preserve the active ingredients of mugwort to deliver maximum benefits directly to the skin.

This gel/paste formulation has less oil content than the creamier hydrating masks making it a great mask for normal or oily/combination skin. Once applied, you will be enveloped in a cooling sensation almost like a breath of fresh air. Your skin will immediately feel relief, relaxed and hydrated in only minutes!

Price: RM113.00

Where to buy: Shopee/Lazada/Watsons/Zalora

2. I’M FROM Mugwort Essence

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Mugwort essences are fast gaining immense popularity in the K Beauty scene, and ‘I’m From’s Mugwort essence is one of the most popular ones. What makes this (practically an) elixir unique is that it contains  100% concentrated Mugwort extract From Ganghwa County. It easily absorbs into the skin and has soothing, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties. If you have extremely sensitive skin or simply prefer simplicity, this essence is a simple, fuss-free way to incorporate Mugwort into your daily regimen. This essence is straightforward yet efficient, earning its cult status among K-Beauty devotees.

Price: RM123.00

Where to buy: Shopee/Lazada/Watsons/Zalora

3. I’M FROM Mugwort Sheet Mask

I’M FROM Mugwort Sheet Mask is a moisturising sheet mask that includes 91.45% pure Mugwort extract to hydrate, nourish, and soothe the skin for a healthy, glowing complexion. Mugwort efficiently treats dry, irritated skin thanks to its calming, anti-inflammatory characteristics. It contains soothing and protecting properties that are suitable for even-aged skin, so it may effectively alleviate redness on the skin.

Price: RM18 (Single), RM139 (10/Box)

Where to buy: Shopee/Lazada/Zalora

4. I’M FROM Mugwort Spot Gel

I’m From Mugwort spot gel is a soothing spot treatment that contains 90% pure Mugwort extract directly from the soil of Ganghwa, Korea. The spot gel quickly absorbs into problem areas to maintain sebum production, and soothe the complexion. The fresh finish leaves the skin feeling thoroughly cared for, without the discomfort of a sticky, oily residue. Apply to irritated skin and feel it being transformed to clear smooth, healthy skin.

Simply place a little quantity on your finger and apply it to the desired location. Allow the gel to sink into the skin by gently patting and massaging it.

Price: RM83.00

Where to buy: Shopee/Lazada/Zalora

5. I’M FROM Mugwort Cream

This lightweight and moisturising cream contains 73.55% Mugwort extract and is suited for all skin types. It is formulated to simply melt into your skin, leaving no sticky or oily sensation but instead leaves the skin glowing, hydrated, and rejuvenated. This cream is an excellent choice for both sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Price: RM113.00

Where to buy: Shopee/Lazada/Watsons/Zalora