Many skin care brands today are including ginseng in their beauty products for its purported skin benefits. It is believed to help treat various skin-related conditions. Here, we explore the skin benefits of ginseng, how to use it, and its potential side effects. Read on. There are mainly two types of ginseng – Asian and American. Ginseng can be further classified as red ginseng (unpeeled) or white (peeled and dried) ginseng. Red ginseng (also called panax ginseng) is usually used in most skin care formulations for its maximum benefits and potency. Following are the skin benefits of ginseng. What Are Its Benefits? Treat wrinkles and fine lines, helps balance oil production, and reduces hyperpigmentation. Who Can Use It? People who have dry and dehydrated skin. How Often? Daily, if used in the form of a moisturizer. Every other day if used in a concentrated form. Caution People with sensitive skin may experience skin irritation so it is recommended to do a patch test.
1. May Help Balance Oil Production
Ginseng may act as a shield against various environmental pollutants like dirt, grime, etc. Pollutants may get easily absorbed into the skin, accumulate in pores, and stimulate the production of melanocytesi A type of cell that contains the melanin pigment and is found in the deeper layers of the skin and eyes. . These may eventually lead to brown spots. Skin care products containing ginseng may help balance oil production in the skin. Some research suggests that ginseng may also have anti-acne properties, thanks to its anti-microbial properties (1).
2. May Treat Wrinkles And Fine Lines
Ginseng is effective in boosting the circulation of the skin’s smallest blood vessels . This may ramp up collagen synthesis and potentially treat fine lines and wrinkles. Research shows ginseng may boost the production of type 1 collagen. More specifically, it may help suppress collagen degradation (2). Ginseng may also protect the skin against UV-induced damage, which may otherwise accelerate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
3. May Help Reduce Hyperpigmentation
Ginseng may prevent the detrimental production of melanin (an amino acid that lead to dark spots on the skin) (3). Ginseng’s anti-inflammatory properties may also help treat severe skin conditions such as psoriasisi A non-contagious autoimmune disorder in which skin cells accumulate and develop into scales and dry, itchy areas. . However, more information is warranted in this regard.
4. May Suit Sensitive Skin
Ginseng’s natural anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce skin redness and puffiness in sensitive skin. Further, it may also help reduce skin inflammation in atopic dermatitisi An inflammatory, itchy skin condition that usually manifests as a rash on the arms and behind the knees in early childhood. (4).
5. May Reduce Dark Circles
Ginseng is thought to reduce dark circles. Its anti-pigmentation properties are believed to play a role here. However, research is unclear in this regard. More information is warranted. Ginseng may also increase hyaluronic acid generation and keep your skin hydrated and plump (2). This may potentially reduce dark circles.
6. May Boost Skin Glow
The presence of various bioactive compounds in ginseng, such as pectin, saponins, polysaccharides, vitamins B1, B2, and B12, may make ginseng the ideal ingredient for boosting skin glow. However, research is limited in this regard. Joe Moody, a blogger, shared his experience of consuming ashwagandha in his personal blog. He said, “If I am tired it will give me a robust energy. But if I’m over-stimulated or stressed, it calms me down. It adapts to whatever situation I’m in (i).” He went on to add, “It boosts my immunity (the main reason I use it) giving me an abundance of what I can only describe as a sturdy constitution. It seems to speed healing, from illnesses to skin and mouth wounds and keep my skin shiny.” Now that we know the skin benefits of ginseng, let us understand how you can include it in your skincare regimen.
Ways To Use Ginseng For The Skin
One of the best ways to treat your skin with the amazing benefits of ginseng is a face pack. A ginseng face mask contains a range of nourishing and energizing ginseng extracts that help revitalize dull and tired skin. Using these masks regularly can offer important benefits. They have a pleasing, mild scent and give your face a cooling sensation. Using a rejuvenating ginseng facial cream or face mask can help in case your skin feels dry and dull. Here are some of the most effective ginseng face packs you can use.
1. Turmeric And Lemon Ginseng Face Pack
Mix 2 teaspoons of ginseng powder along with 1 teaspoon each of magnesium powder, turmeric powder, ashwagandhapowder, and lemon juice in a bowl. Apply the mixture gently to the skin. Leave it to dry for 5 minutes and rinse off with warm water.
2. Water And Ginseng Pack
Take 1 ginseng powder teabag and dissolve it in hot water. Let the tea cool down to room temperature. Gently apply this mixture onto the skin using a cotton ball and wash off with warm water.
3. Milk Powder Ginseng Pack
Mix 1 teaspoon of milk powder and warm water with 2 teaspoons of ginseng powder to form a thick paste. Gently apply the paste to the skin using a cotton ball and leave it on for 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Apply a good moisturizer of your choice.
Ginseng face masks may offer the following benefits:
Ginseng face packs may help brighten and revitalize the skin. These masks contain natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce skin redness. The masks could also be a calming remedy for various skin issues like acne, dark circles, and psoriasisi A non-contagious autoimmune disorder in which skin cells accumulate and develop into scales and dry, itchy areas. . Regular and consistent use of a ginseng face mask may restore lost skin moisture.
While ginseng offers important benefits to skin, it also may cause certain adverse effects. We have discussed them in the next section.
Side Effects Of Ginseng For The Skin
Ginseng, in general, is thought to be safe for most people. However, stop use and consult your healthcare provider if you experience a severe skin reaction. Other causes for concern include swelling of the face or tongue, burning sensation in the eyes, skin pain, skin rashes, blistering, or peeling of the skin. These adverse effects are based on anecdotal evidence.
Is Ginseng Good For Your Face?
Yes. Ginseng is a very powerful herb and is used in skin care products widely. It contains a variety of biologically active ingredients, including polysaccharides, ginsenosides, peptides, polyacetylenes, phytosterols fatty acids, and polyacetylene alcohols. Of these, ginsenosides (steroid-like saponins) are considered the most potent (5). What does ginseng serum do? According to anecdotal evidence, ginseng serum improves blood circulation and rejuvenates dry, tired skin. In addition, its antioxidant capabilities may help cleanse the skin and protect it from further harm. How do you make ginseng serum at home? What you need • 1.2 oz argan oil • 0.7 oz jojoba oil • 0.2 oz ginseng extract • 0.2 oz cera bellina wax • 0.2 oz vitamin E oil • Slide tins Method • Pour argan oil and jojoba oil in a bowl. • Add cera bellina wax. • Melt this mixture in the microwave for 30 seconds. • Take it out carefully and add vitamin E oil and ginseng extract. • Stir to mix them well. • Pour the mixture into the slide tins. • Let it cool. Are ginseng and ashwagandha the same? Ashwagandha is known as the Indian Ginseng, as they both have similar benefits. Is ginseng good at night? It is good to take ginseng at night, however you should consult a doctor before consuming it as it may cause sleep disturbances in some. How long can I take ginseng? You can consume ginseng for 3-4 months and can have 1 to 2 grams of the root 3 or 4 times per day.
Is ginseng tea healthy?
Ginseng is one of the adaptogens, a group of natural ingredients that help the body cope with physical and emotional stress. Therefore, ginseng can have a balancing effect on the body and promote overall wellness. It can be consumed as a tea to get the maximum health benefits. (7) Check out the below video to discover helpful tips for maintaining healthy skin, including a refreshing ginseng face mask. Embrace a natural glow and enhance your skin care routine.
