In an article for MindBodyGreen, Alicia Yoon wrote that K-beauty has roots in agriculture. Thus, the ingredients used in K-beauty primarily originate from nature. Common examples include snail mucin, propolis, Centella asiatica, and more. At first, Americans were wary of some of these ingredients. However, they have become increasingly popular in the States, and with good reason. Snail mucin, for example, is made from snail secretions and is full of antioxidants. Dr. Kemi Fabusiwa noted to Refinery29 why snail mucin is beneficial. "This is a great barrier-protecting ingredient, but it also gives your skin a great shine," she said.
One snail mucin product that has gone viral is the Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence by COSRX. The product promises to hydrate the skin and help heal damaged skin, amongst other things. Like snail mucin, propolis, which comes from bee hives, is said to have antioxidants and provide glowing skin. It can also help irritated or inflamed skin. Centella asiatica is a plant with anti-inflammatory benefits and can aid with acne and other skin conditions.
Cosmetic chemist Esther Olu told Refinery29 what the most significant difference is between Western and K-Beauty ingredients. She said, "[Western skin care] is meant to help with anti-aging and things like redness, while Korean skin care focuses more on maintenance and skin barrier health."
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