Unlock the heritage of timeless Chinese wisdom
We’re just five days away from the Lunar New Year! While we’re busy prepping for reunions, feasts, and those red packets, let’s take a moment to honour the ancient wisdom passed down through generations.
Join us as we uncover 8 Treasured Chinese Beauty Secrets that go beyond skin-deep, nurturing your body and mind from within for that lit-from-within glow.
Drumroll, please… Let’s dive in!
1. Snow Fungus 银耳/ 白木耳
Nicknamed nature’s hyaluronic acid, “Silver Ear” (银耳) or “White Tree Fungus” (白木耳) has been a royal favourite since the days of Empress Dowager Cixi. Why? Because it’s packed with polysaccharides that lock in moisture, leaving your skin hydrated, bouncy, and smooth. Plus, its antioxidants help repair skin and boost collagen production.
Pro Tip: Make it extra yummy by simmering snow fungus with red dates, longan, gingko nuts, and rock sugar. The ultimate guilt-free dessert to make your skin glow like royalty!
2. Cordyceps 冬虫夏草
Part fungus, part caterpillar—Cordyceps (冬虫夏草) are the zombified caterpillars! This parasitic fungus takes over its insect host, growing out of its head in a stalk-like structure. It may sound like something from a horror movie, but it’s actually found in high-altitude regions like the Tibetan Plateau and is one of the most expensive medicinal fungi—sometimes priced higher than gold per gram.
Sounds wild, but Cordyceps is TCM’s goldmine for boosting energy, blood circulation, and oxygen flow.
You’ll also find this MVP in ést.lab’s SunShield SPF 50***—where it teams up with other powerhouse ingredients to deliver collagen-boosting, skin-repairing, anti-inflammatory, and UV-defending benefits. Talk about multitasking!
3. Bojin Therapy 拨筋疗法
Feeling sluggish and meh? Bojin Therapy (拨筋疗法) could be your new go-to! Combining acupressure, massage, and “Qi” manipulation, it balances energy, relieves tension, and regulates hormones.
Estetica’s Meridian Detox Facial uses TCM Bojin techniques for a natural facelift—lifting, sculpting, and reducing fine lines, sagging, and puffiness. It detoxifies, boosts circulation for a healthy glow, and helps skin renew by delivering oxygen and nutrients.
Bonus? It’s not just for the face—Bojin can also tackle muscle stiffness, poor circulation, and digestive issues. Ready to glow from head to toe?
4. Red Date Tea 红枣茶
Next time you’re thirsty, skip the Chagee tea and brew yourself some Red Date Tea (红枣茶) instead!
Packed with Vitamin C, B-complex, and essential minerals like iron and calcium, this sweet tea nourishes your blood and skin, boosts hydration, and gives your complexion a radiant glow.
Upgrade it with goji berries and rock sugar, and voilà—your skin will be glowing brighter than your CNY lanterns.
5. Safflower 红花
The ultimate underrated beauty hack that’s been a TCM staple for over 2,000 years!
If you’re a fan of Chinese period dramas, you’ve probably seen characters dabbing on a “miracle” ointment. Chances are, Safflower (红花) was the hero ingredient behind the magic. Known as a “blood-moving” herb, it boosts circulation, accelerates healing, reduces inflammation, and detoxifies the body—perfect for treating everything from cuts and bruises to blood stagnation.
Look out for safflower in ést.lab’s LumiGlow TXA Brightening Cream, where it works overtime to lighten scars, fade dark spots, and even out your complexion. Plus, its linoleic acid keeps your skin hydrated and locked in moisture, leaving you with a brighter, even complexion.
6. Body Cupping 拔罐
Body cupping (拔罐) has a rich history that dates back to the Huangdi Neijing (黄帝内经), the earliest and most revered text of TCM. Compiled over 2,200 years ago during the Warring States period (475-221 BC), this ancient medical classic remains a cornerstone of TCM practices today.
Fast forward to the modern era, and body cupping has found its way onto the wellness routines of A-listers like Gwyneth Paltrow, Michael Phelps, and Jennifer Aniston—those iconic cupping marks are way more than just a fleeting trend!
Traditionally, fire is used to create a vacuum inside glass cups, which are then placed on the skin to stimulate blood flow, boost immunity, and eliminate toxins—basically, a full-body reset.
Estetica takes this ancient therapy to the next level with our Advanced Body Wellness 3-In-1 Therapy. This upgraded version integrates six modern enhancements: Bioelectric Current, Pulse Wave Energy, LED Red Light Therapy, Bian Stone, Thermal Therapy, and Electronic Scraping. It’s a fusion of ancient wisdom and cutting-edge technology, delivering the benefits of cupping in a way that’s both innovative and true to its origins.
7. Licorice Root 甘草
The “great harmoniser” which enhances the power of other ingredients and balances formulas, Licorice Root (甘草) is a hidden gem in your skincare routine, but you might already be using it!
Gentle enough for all skin types, including sensitive skin, licorice root treats many different skin problems like pigmentation, dryness, fine lines and inflammation, however, they are so gentle that it can even be used for eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis.
Found in ést.lab’s OptimaLift A+ Multi-Repair Eye Essence, it’s perfect for the delicate under-eye area. Plus, its glabridin content helps brighten dark circles by inhibiting melanin—your secret weapon for brighter eyes!
8. Herbal baths 药浴
Before you book that expensive flight to Japan, Korea, or Taiwan to soak in a hot spring, why not bring the spa to you? Herbal baths are super affordable and ridiculously easy to prepare. Skip the pricey resorts and treat yourself to a blissful retreat right at home.
Whether you’re looking to detox, unwind, or pamper your skin, you can create a blend that fits your exact needs.
- Detox: Feel like you need to flush out some of life’s toxins (we’re talking more than just your over-caffeinated self)? Try lotus leaf or ginger to help purify and cleanse.
- Relaxation: Stressed out? (Who isn’t these days?) Add lavender or honeysuckle to your bath, and let the calming scent do its thing. You’ll be zen in no time.
- Skin Care: If you’re looking for that glow-up, goji berries and snow fungus are packed with hydration and nourishment. It’s like a face mask… but for your entire body!
- Postpartum Care: For those in need of recovery, mugwort and Angelica root are TCM go-tos for nurturing the body after childbirth. Your self-care routine just got a major upgrade.
By incorporating these timeless beauty secrets into your modern routine, you’re not just caring for your appearance but also fostering a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
This Lunar New Year, let’s glow in harmony with holistic wellness. Cheers to health, happiness, and radiant beauty!
In good hands,
Estetica
