As a longtime beauty editor, I have always paid close attention to how other cultures and far off places define beauty. In fact, it fascinates me. I’m obsessed with learning all about the secrets and traditions that women across the globe have cherished and passed down through generations, revealing the essence of their unique beauty philosophies. This journey through diverse cultures uncovers the essence of beauty as practiced in various parts of the world, from the meticulous skincare regimens of South Korea to the natural elixirs of the Mediterranean.
Ahead, I rounded up the best global beauty secrets, plus my favorite product suggestions – no passport required!
1. Korea’s Glass Skin: The Epitome of Hydration
In South Korea, the quest for ‘Glass Skin’ is achieved through a multi-step skincare routine focusing on hydration and luminosity. To experience a slice of this ritual, consider the Joah Beauty Luminous Skin Tint Stick ($13.99), a product that embodies the essence of Korean skincare to give you gives you that healthy, lit from within glow.
2. Japan’s Camellia Oil: A Touch of Geisha Elegance
Camellia oil, a treasured beauty secret among Geishas, is renowned for its ability to nourish skin and hair. The Tatcha Gold Camellia Beauty Oil ($98) beautifully encapsulates this tradition, offering a luxurious blend that rejuvenates and restores.
3. India’s Turmeric: The Golden Spice of Beauty
Turmeric has been a cornerstone of Indian beauty rituals for centuries, known for its anti-inflammatory and brightening properties. To incorporate this into your regimen, explore the Kama Ayurveda Turmeric Brightening Face Pack ($20), a product that harnesses the power of this ancient spice for radiant skin.
4. Moroccan Argan Oil: Liquid Gold for Skin and Hair
Morocco’s Argan Oil is celebrated for its rich, nourishing qualities. The Moroccanoil Treatment ($48) is a versatile product that exemplifies the benefits of Argan Oil, ideal for both hair and skin.
5. Australia’s Tea Tree Oil: A Natural Blemish Remedy
Tea Tree Oil, a staple in Australian skincare, is known for its antibacterial properties, especially effective against acne. The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil ($19) offers a concentrated solution that targets blemishes and helps in maintaining clear skin.
6. Mediterranean Olive Oil: The Essence of Natural Moisturization
In the Mediterranean, Olive Oil is a multi-functional elixir used for skin and hair care. The Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate ($56) infused with Olive Oil, is a perfect night-time product for rejuvenating the skin.
7. Brazilian Exfoliation: Beach-Inspired Body Care
Brazil’s unique beach culture includes using sand as a natural exfoliant. For a similar experience, the Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Body Scrub ($42) offers an invigorating body exfoliation, inspired by the Brazilian beauty ethos. This scrub gently exfoliates and moisturizes with crushed cupuaçu seeds and sugar crystals.
8. African Shea Butter: Intense Nourishment from Nature
Shea Butter, widely used across Africa for skin and hair care, is an excellent moisturizer. The L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream ($24) is a luxurious product that embodies the hydrating power of Shea Butter.