Skincare may feel like a futuristic affair with its clinical serums and scientific jargon, but some of the most powerful beauty secrets have actually been around for thousands of years. From Cleopatra’s legendary milk baths to East Asian herbal concoctions, ancient cultures were ahead of the curve when it came to skin health, relying on potent, natural remedies that are now making a glorious return to the top shelf of modern beauty routines.
Here’s your curated guide to the most buzzworthy ancient ingredients you’ll be seeing everywhere and why they’re worth the hype.
Photo Credit: Artem Varnitsin/Shutterstock
Frankincense & Myrrh: The OG Power Duo
Used in spiritual rituals, wound care, and skincare across Egypt, India, and the Middle East, this resinous pair is prized for its calming and regenerative qualities. Today, it’s earning a reputation as a skin-firming powerhouse. Think smoother texture, reduced inflammation, and even support for collagen production.
Modern Perk: These ancient resins are ideal for acne-prone or sensitive skin types, though dilution is key to avoid any irritation. Pair with peptides or niacinamide to double down on skin recovery.
Mugwort: The Botanical Calm Bringer
Don't let the name fool you—mugwort is a skincare savior for stressed-out complexions. Long used in Korean medicine, this antioxidant-rich herb is a go-to for inflamed, irritated, or acne-prone skin.
Modern Perk: Mugwort pairs beautifully with cica or niacinamide, giving your skin a spa day with every use. If your skin gets red just thinking about exfoliation, this is your new best friend.
Blue Tansy: The Skin Whisperer
With its stunning blue hue and sweet, herbal scent, blue tansy is as photogenic as it is effective. Hailing from Morocco, this oil is known for calming angry skin and easing conditions like eczema and rosacea.
Modern Perk: It plays well with soothing ingredients like jojoba and squalane, and is ideal for sensitive or reactive skin types. Just don’t forget to patch test—especially if you’re sensitive to essential oils.
Saffron: Liquid Gold for Your Glow
Revered in Ayurveda and used in Indian beauty rituals for centuries, saffron is more than just a luxe spice. It brightens, calms, and clarifies the skin—all while delivering a healthy dose of antioxidants.
Modern Perk: Perfect for tackling dark spots or dullness. When combined with turmeric or vitamin C, saffron helps bring out your skin’s inner radiance without the use of harsh chemicals.
Harakeke: New Zealand’s Aloe Alternative
This native New Zealand flax may not be edible, but its thick sap is a hydration hero. Similar to aloe but gentler, harakeke is ultra-calming and deeply moisturizing.
Modern Perk: It's especially beloved by those with post-procedure or eczema-prone skin. Mix it into your routine with hyaluronic acid or ceramides for a hydration boost that won’t clog pores.
Mushrooms: From Soup to Serum
Long used in Eastern medicine, mushrooms—especially varieties like reishi and tremella—have become the new “it” ingredients in skincare. These fungi bring antioxidant strength and deep hydration to stressed skin.
Modern Perk: Adaptogenic and loaded with beta-glucans, mushrooms support your skin's barrier and boost elasticity. Combine with glycerin or vitamin C for a major moisture and glow upgrade.
Yuzu Seeds: Citrus for Skin Strength
This zesty fruit from Japan and Korea isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with skin-loving ceramides and vitamin C. Yuzu seed extract brightens, firms, and offers gentle exfoliation without irritation.
Modern Perk: If you're dealing with dry or tired skin, this is your go-to. Blend with hyaluronic acid or vitamin E for a juicy burst of hydration and radiance.
Dragon’s Blood: The Resin That Rebuilds
No dragons were harmed in the making of this miracle ingredient. Dragon’s blood is actually a red sap from a South American tree and has been used for centuries to heal wounds and protect the skin.
Modern Perk: Ideal for mature or environmentally stressed skin, dragon’s blood acts like a protective shield. Team it with peptides and squalane to maximize skin regeneration and hydration.
Bringing the Past into Your Skincare Future
Today’s clean beauty boom is tapping into timeless traditions, and for good reason—these ancient ingredients are as effective now as they were centuries ago. With modern formulations making them safer, more potent, and easier to use, it’s never been a better time to go back to nature. Whether you’re battling sensitivity, dullness, or aging concerns, there’s an ancient remedy ready to revolutionize your routine.
So, consider this your permission slip to travel back in time, no time machine necessary, just a really good serum.
