4 unusual K-beauty skincare ingredients that are amazing for acne-prone skin

Centella Asiatica

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Also known as Gotu Kola, Centella Asiatica is a plant found in Asia that has harvested since ancient times for its medicinal properties. Packed with amino acids, beta carotene, fatty acids and potent phytochemicals, when applied topically, this anti-oxidant rich plant extract stimulates collagen production and promotes cell regeneration, which is helpful for acne scars and inflammation.  

Find it in: Cosrx Centella Blemish Cream ($30.90), Watsons.

Snail Mucin

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While it might sound a little icky, snail mucin has established a firm standing in skincare and has found its way into many products you find on shelves. Because of the careful and thorough filtration processes, the products rarely come with that slimy consistency you would associate the gooey secretion, but are in the form of serums, essences and creams that are easy to apply with your hands.

Snail mucin is prized for its high concentration of skin-loving nutrients like the hydrating hyaluronic acid, copper peptides and glycoproteins. In addition to hydrating the skin and protecting the skin from UV damage, snail mucin also helps to speed up recovery of skin issues like acne, rosacea and hyperpigmentation.

Find it in: Leaders Insolution AC-Dressing Skin Clinic Mask ($4), Sephora.

Red Wine

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Fancy a tipple? Red wine is not only for your wine o’clock, it also does wonders for your oily skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, as a topical skincare ingredient, it is also said to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, making skin texture look more refined.

Find it in: ($20), Innisfree.

Propolis

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Propolis will always be the bee’s knees of natural skincare ingredients. It is the resin-like substance made by bees to fill in the crevices of the honeycomb for protection. Propolis is prized for its ability to fight against powerful bacteria and reduce overactive sebaceous glands to keep acne at bay. Also, propolis is also great for soothing inflammation and wounds and speed up the recovery process.

Find it in: ($54.90), cnpcosmetics.com.sg