Mugwort
+156% GrowthSoothing & Calming

Mugwort

쑥 (Ssuk)

Traditional Korean Herb for Soothing Skin

Origin:Artemisia plant (Korean mugwort)

Mugwort, known as "ssuk" (쑥) in Korean, is a traditional medicinal herb that has been used in Korea for centuries—not just in skincare, but in food, tea, and traditional medicine. This sacred plant is now a K-Beauty superstar for sensitive and irritated skin.

Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, mugwort is celebrated for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In Korean culture, mugwort has long been associated with healing and purification, and modern skincare has embraced these traditional benefits.

The I'm From Mugwort Essence became a cult favorite and introduced global audiences to this powerful ingredient. Now, numerous K-Beauty brands feature mugwort as a hero ingredient for calming reactive, stressed skin.

How It Works

Mugwort works through multiple mechanisms to soothe and protect skin:

**Anti-inflammatory Action**: Mugwort contains compounds that calm inflammation at the source, reducing redness, swelling, and irritation. This makes it ideal for conditions like rosacea, eczema, and general sensitivity.

**Antioxidant Protection**: The high vitamin content (A, C, E) neutralizes free radicals that cause premature aging and damage from environmental stressors like pollution and UV exposure.

**Barrier Support**: Mugwort helps strengthen the skin's natural moisture barrier, preventing water loss and protecting against irritants.

**Antibacterial Properties**: Natural antibacterial compounds help keep acne-causing bacteria in check, making mugwort suitable for blemish-prone skin that's also sensitive.

Benefits

Calms inflammation and redness
Soothes sensitive and reactive skin
Rich in vitamins A, C, and E
Protects against environmental damage
Strengthens skin barrier
Provides antibacterial benefits for acne
Hydrates without heaviness
Safe for most sensitive skin types

Best For

Sensitive or reactive skinRedness and rosaceaEczema-prone skinAcne with sensitivityStressed, irritated skinThose seeking gentle, natural ingredients

How To Use

1Apply mugwort essence after cleansing
2Can be used morning and night
3Layer before heavier serums and moisturizers
4Safe to use with most other ingredients
5Great as a soothing layer after actives
6Can be used on irritated spots throughout day

Cautions

  • Rare, but possible plant allergies—patch test first
  • Those with ragweed allergies may react
  • Avoid if allergic to Artemisia family plants
  • Generally very safe for most skin types

Products with Mugwort

Sources

Explore more K-Beauty ingredients

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