Over our many years as skincare experts, one thing our formulators have learned is that inspiration can come from anywhere. When you look to other parts of the world and other cultures, you discover botanical ingredients that, when combined with cutting-edge science, unlock efficacious skin recipes that can help you achieve a healthy-looking complexion. One of those little-known (at least to the Western world) ingredients is Red Ginseng. If you’ve never heard of this beneficial plant, you’re missing out on a centuries-old ingredient for skin. First used in Asian culture for healing purposes, Red Ginseng is a popular ingredient there. Curious to know more? Read on for your primer on Red Ginseng for the skin.

What Is Red Ginseng?

Sometimes referred to in Asia as the “root of immortality,” Ginseng is a big part of “hanbang,” a.k.a. traditional herbal medicine. The root of the plant is revered for its purported ability to positively impact the stress and aid with a wide variety of health maladies from poor circulation to influenza prevention. There are two main types of Ginseng: Asian and American. It can be red (unpeeled) or white (peeled and dried). In Kiehl’s formulations, we use Red Ginger Root sourced from Korea and specially cultivated for maximum potency. While they contain the name Ginseng, the Brazilian, Indian, and Siberian varieties are not actually part of the Ginseng family.

What Does Red Ginseng Do For Skin?

While it traditionally was used in teas, tonics, and tinctures, scientists discovered that it also has some remarkable anti-aging effects on the skin’s appearance. Ginseng is also known to have antioxidant properties. It’s rich in three different types of Vitamin B, plus saponins and minerals. In our Pure Vitality Skin Renewing Cream, a lightweight face cream that improves skin texture, boosts radiance, revitalizes, and strengthens the skin barrier, we combine Red Ginseng Root with Manuka Honey from New Zealand and other caring ingredients.

Who Is Red Ginseng Best For?

Pretty much everyone! Red Ginseng has so many beneficial qualities that it can aid most skin types in improving dullness to puffiness. Because of its antioxidant qualities, it is particularly good as part of an anti-aging regimen.

There’s a reason this root has been a significant part of herbal remedies for the past 2000 years. See for yourself what Red Ginseng Root can do for your skin’s appearance.