Ever noticed that people from certain parts of the world have better skin than the rest of us? Case in point: Korea, the country that gave us the gift of K-beauty. Here, we help you discover the world’s best-kept beauty secrets and unravel the mysteries of natural ingredients, age-defying techniques, and cultural wisdom that have been passed down over generations. Elevate your personal care routine with the remarkable diversity of beauty customs that have stood the test of time.
1. India: Turmeric for Radiant Skin
India has a long history of using turmeric as a glowing agent for radiant skin. A traditional Hindu bride has turmeric rubbed on her hands and face during a ritual called the Haldi ceremony. For a quick face mask, mix together a teaspoon of turmeric powder with some yoghurt and honey to create a thick paste, leave this mix on your face for 15 minutes, and rinse.
2. Australia: Yarrow Extract for Stretch Marks
Yarrow extract is often used by Australian women to help prevent stretch marks, as it is an anti-inflammatory ingredient that soothes the skin with its hydrating and rejuvenating properties. Apply some store-bought yarrow extract on stretch marks consistently to see a difference.
3. Brazil: Oatmeal for a Sunburn
Next time you have a terrible sunburn and are looking for something soothing for your skin, try this little technique from Brazil. Wrap a bunch of oatmeal flakes in a gauge and hold it over a bath, allowing the running water to filter through the oats first. Soak in this liquid, which carried the anti-inflammatory healing properties of oatmeal, to provide relief to your sunburn.
4. Chile: Red Grapes for Glowing Skin
Chilean people attribute their glowing skin to a red grape mixture. Crush a few red grapes and combine it with flour to make a paste for a face mask. Apply and leave it for around ten minutes for radiant skin.
5. Bulgaria: Rose Water as a Face Cleanser
Several cultures swear by rose water as a vital ingredient in their personal care routine, some even use it in their hair for silky and fragrant locks. In Bulgaria, rose water is used as a face cleanser. Bottles of rose water are easily available in several stores, which mitigates the need to make a homemade mix. Always keep this product in your arsenal for a quick rejuvenating face cleanse.
6. Romania: Olive Oil for Strong Nails
In Romania, a well-kept remedy for strong nails lies in the simple yet effective practice of soaking them in a mixture of warm olive oil and vitamin A oil. The infusion of vitamin A and olive oil works wonders in nurturing the cuticle beds, resulting in noticeably stronger nail growth. Over a few sessions, your nails should become less prone to breakage. Moreover, this treatment may also prevent the issue of skin peeling around the nails, a common symptom of excessively dry nail beds.
7. China: Rice Water to Rinse Your Face
In China, women employ rice water as a facial cleansing rinse. The abundance of antioxidants found in rice provides essential nourishment to the skin while combating agents known to accelerate the ageing process. To make this cleanser mix, soak some Chinese rice in water for around 20 minutes and drain. Use a washcloth to absorb the water and use it on your face.
8. Spain: Potato Wedges for Dark Circles
By cutting thin potato slices and placing them under your eyes for a duration of ten minutes, you can effectively lighten the skin surrounding the eyes, helping to get rid of a dull and fatigued look. This is a popular skincare remedy in Spain. Repeat this routinely to see visible changes under your eyes.
