Ginseng: Korea's Most Famous Root, in Your Skincare

October 27, 20261 min read

In Korea, ginseng is what you reach for when you're run-down. It turns out tired skin likes it too.

What is ginseng?

Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is a root used in traditional Korean herbal care (hanbang) for centuries. In skincare you'll find ginseng root, ginseng berry or fruit water, red ginseng (steamed) and black ginseng (steamed and dried several times). It's rich in compounds called ginsenosides.

What it does for your skin

Revives tired-looking skin. Skin looks more awake and energised.
Nourishing. It gives skin a soft, comfortable feel.
Supports a healthy-looking glow. Many people love it for a natural radiance.

Who it suits

Tired, dull or mature-looking skin, and anyone curious about Korean hanbang skincare.

Skin MBTI match: W (firming care) · D (dry). Not sure of yours? The Skin MBTI quiz tells you in three minutes.

How to use it

Use a ginseng serum or cream once or twice a day.
Ginseng cleansing oils are a gentle way to start.
It suits morning and night routines alike.

When you'll notice it: Skin feels nourished straight away. The glow builds over a few weeks.

Good to know: Generally gentle. Patch-test if you have plant allergies.

What to pair it with

Ginseng often appears with snail mucin, retinal or rice in Korean formulas.

Myth vs fact

Myth: Ginseng is only for older skin.
Fact: Its energising, nourishing feel suits any age.

How to choose one

Look for Panax Ginseng Root Extract, ginseng berry or fruit water, red ginseng or black ginseng.
A percentage, such as '63% ginseng fruit water', tells you it's the main ingredient.
Serums and creams carry the most. Cleansing oils are a gentle way to try it.

Where to find it

Beauty of Joseon takes its name from Korea's Joseon dynasty and builds its range on hanbang ingredients, with ginseng front and centre: the Revive serum (63% ginseng fruit water), the Dynasty Cream (ginseng root water with 29% rice bran water) and a cleansing oil with ginseng seed oil. K-SECRET pairs 58% black ginseng with retinal.