The Root Cause

When your parents and grandparents rave about the benefits of cordyceps, lingzhi and the like, it’s not just them doing a #throwback about homeopathic remedies. Take ginseng for one: Rich in nutrients and anti-oxidants, it’s probably one of the most popular herbs in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and is used to relieve fatigue and improve health.

But unlike our folks, we no longer just eat the root – we put it on our face. Okay, rephrase: It has gained prominence in anti-ageing skincare as it’s believed to increase skin’s metabolism and collagen production for a fresher, firmer complexion. As if that’s not enough to qualify this as an “It” ingredient, Korean beauty giant Sulwhasoo just helped upped its cachet to Hallyu-celebrity level with its discovery of the herb’s whitening and brightening properties.

According to the brand, white ginseng can help activate skin’s Balancing Brightening Factor to suppress the activation of melanin, and generate enzymes to prevent the formation of dark spots. What’s more, its extract reportedly improves skin’s collagen structure, so it’s better able to reflect light.

This explains why it’s the key ingredient in the brand’s Snowise Brightening range, created to improve balance, clarity and transparency in skin. How it’s supposed to work: Saponin (a chemical compound found in plants) in the ginseng controls pigment production, leading to an even, flawless complexion. It also improves skin plumpness, thus diminishing shadows caused by fine lines and sagging.

Also in the formula: enriched white ginseng polysaccharides (imagine chains of carbohydrate molecules) that hydrate and give skin a glow, and white cloud grass extract that promises to eliminate toxins and pollutants, soothe inflammation, and prevent excessive melanin formation.

Science talk aside, it means that you no longer need to choose between an antiageing or whitening product. This comprehensive set – Cleansing Foam, Exfoliating Gel, Water, Emulsion, Serum, Spot Treatment, Eye Serum, Cream, Sheet Mask and UV Protector – targets both issues, with the ace being the Snowise Brightening Serum. 

On top of white ginseng and white cloud grass extracts, the gel-serum is also infused with morus bark, which is said to boost skin’s energy levels. It’s a marquee performer: Aside from soothing inflammation and being extremely hydrating, it is easily absorbed into skin – while promising to boost skin elasticity, suppleness, tone and radiance – and gentle enough for sensitive complexions.

Another must-have multitasker is the Snowise Brightening UV Protector SPF50+/PA++++. This sunscreen not only protects against harmful UV rays and brightens skin, but is also formulated with the brand’s proprietary Skin Coating Film Technology. This helps shield the complexion from pollution and fine dust, which can damage skin’s protective barrier, leading to irritation and premature ageing.

Made with vegetable oil, this soothing, lightweight cream comes in two shades: No. 1 Soft Glow and No. 2 Soft Peach. Thanks to white cloud grass extract, it also helps fight dullness and pigmentation, while lending a soft radiance to the complexion.