The Benefits of Using Ginger for Skin, According to Dermatologists
Stocksy
Key Takeaways
- Ginger contains gingerol, which helps reduce inflammation and redness in skin conditions like acne and eczema.
- Ginger is beneficial for acne-prone and oily skin types but may irritate sensitive skin if applied directly.
- Dermatologists recommend using ginger-based skincare products with moisturizers and serums for their brightening and antioxidant effects.
For centuries, ginger has been known as a healing ingredient. It’s the go-to home remedy for everything from nausea (a popular pick for morning sickness if you’re pregnant) and an upset stomach as well as detoxes and cleanses. And while ginger is great for natural ailments, it can benefit your skin, too. To learn how, we reached out to dermatologists Audrey Kunin, MD, Ava Shamban, MD, and Teresa Song, MD. Keep reading for our expert-approved guide to using ginger for skin.
Meet the Experts
- Audrey Kunin, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dermadoctor.
- Ava Shamban, MD, is a cosmetic dermatologist and founder of Skin Five in LA.
- Teresa Song, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical.
What Is Ginger?
Ginger is a root superfood with medicinal properties that have been exploited for thousands of years. It boasts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities which contribute to the spice’s myriad health benefits (more on those, below).
Ginger
Type of Ingredient: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
Main Benefits: Improves skin tone and texture, plus reduces swelling.
Who Should Use It: It is recommended for acne-prone skin and combination to oily skin types. “Ginger-based products should be avoided by those with highly sensitive skin,” says Dr. Song.
How Often Can You Use It: One to two times daily.
Works Well With: Moisturizers and serums.
Don’t Use With: Other exfoliating agents, such as retinoids.
Benefits of Ginger for the Skin
- Fades scars: “Ginger possesses both antioxidant properties and has a toning effect, making it able to normalize hypopigmented scars (scars lighter than your natural skin tone),” says Dr. Kunin.
- Reduces inflammation: “The active compound, gingerol, has strong anti-inflammatory properties that combat redness and swelling,” says Dr. Song. As an anti-inflammatory, Dr. Shamban notes that ginger can reduce inflammation and irritation in some skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and inflamed acne. These de-puffing properties can also help minimize the appearance of dimpling (read: cellulite), adds Dr. Kunin.
- Brightens skin tone: “Ginger is recognized for its brightening effects and is rich in antioxidants,” Dr. Song tells us. “Its ability to protect against free radicals and environmental stressors contributes to its anti-aging benefits.”
- Rejuvenates skin: “There is some actual data suggesting that it has a damping influence on the enzymes that break down collagen, the MMPs [matrix metalloproteinases] aka collagenase,” explains Dr. Shamban. Since your collagen contributes to a youthful appearance, this powerhouse ingredient interferes in the breaking down of it, making it a great anti-aging tool.
- Combats acne: “Gingerol has been found to have strong antibacterial activity, supporting its role in acne treatments,” says Dr. Song.
- Promotes a healthy scalp: Ginger is also an excellent remedy for dandruff. “Its antiseptic nature helps keep levels of natural yeast and bacteria– which trigger dandruff– low,” says Dr. Kunin.
Skin Type Considerations
“Ginger can be beneficial for those with acne-prone skin and combination to oily skin types,” says Dr. Song. It can also help to address various skin concerns including dullness, uneven pigmentation, and wrinkles, she tells us. “However, the sensitivity and tolerability of ginger need further research, and those with sensitive skin should be cautious with topical application,” she adds.
Side Effects
According to Dr. Song, potential side effects from using ginger-based products can include irritation, allergic reaction, and dryness. “Remember to spot test before whole face application, and exercise caution in those with dry and sensitive skin,” she says. “Additionally, ginger should not be combined with other exfoliating agents (such as acids and physical exfoliants), or retinoids, as it can increase the risk of irritation.”
Byrdie Tip
“Unrefined fresh ginger can potentially cause irritation on the skin,” cautions Dr. Song. “So it is best to opt for skincare products such as serums or creams containing extracted bioactives from gingers to avoid irritation.”
How to Use it
“Ginger-containing products can be used once to twice a day for their antioxidant and brightening effects,” says Dr.Song. “Start with a spot test to ensure the product is tolerated before applying it to all areas,” she emphasizes.
For Your Face
- Oil and Serum: Dr. Song recommends incorporating a face oil or serum into your skincare routine to promote a healthy complexion. She likes Sunday Riley CEO Glow Vitamin C and Turmeric Face Oil, which is formulated with a blend of ginger and antioxidants that are gentle enough for those with dry sensitive skin.
- Cream: Reap the benefits of ginger with a face cream, such as Innisfree Nourishing Cream with Ginger Honey, which comes recommended by Dr. Song. Made with calming honey and anti-inflammatory ginger, it is super nourishing.
- Mask: You can also whip up a biweekly mask of equal parts grated or powdered ginger, honey, and fresh lemon juice. Leave it on for up to 30 minutes, and rinse to reveal radiant skin. You can also boil the same three ingredients to make yourself a stomach-healing tea.
Byrdie Tip
“In terms of DIY skincare, adding ginger to yogurt and honey as a powder can reduce inflammation and be used for acne support or some anti-aging,” says Dr. Shamban.
For Your Body
- Scrub: For cellulite, stimulate circulation and tone your skin with a cellulite-busting lemon-ginger body scrub. Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 cup olive oil, two tablespoons of freshly grated ginger, and the zest of one lemon. You can store the leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Cream: After exfoliating, Dr. Song recommends applying a body cream, like Origins Ginger Souffle Whipped Body Cream, which is packed with antioxidants and delivers deep hydration.
For Your Scalp
“Dermadoctor’s Lucky Bamboo Quench & Set Essence Spray is a refreshing wellness mist replete with antioxidants like ginger, electrolytes, and minerals,” says Dr. Kunin. This rejuvenating mist is the perfect way to easily add ginger to your daily routine. It’s great for anyone wanting to strengthen hair with vitamins and nutrients while also keeping their scalp happy and healthy.
For Scars
For skin that is dealing with scarring, just dab a slice of fresh ginger onto the areas of your skin that are lacking color, and let the juice dry. Do this once or twice a day, every day, and you should start to see an improvement in a couple of weeks. Within a few months, your scars will be nearly undetectable.
Final Takeaway
From reducing inflammation to improving dullness, ginger is a skincare savior. While most skin types can benefit from the ancient ingredient’s antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s still recommended to do a patch test when first trying it out. And those with sensitive skin may want to use a serum or cream formulated with ginger versus applying the raw ingredient directly to skin to avoid irritation. Overall, incorporating the ingredient into your routine is a low-effort way to maximize skin’s health.
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The Benefits of Using Ginger for Skin, According to Dermatologists
Stocksy
Key Takeaways
- Ginger contains gingerol, which helps reduce inflammation and redness in skin conditions like acne and eczema.
- Ginger is beneficial for acne-prone and oily skin types but may irritate sensitive skin if applied directly.
- Dermatologists recommend using ginger-based skincare products with moisturizers and serums for their brightening and antioxidant effects.
For centuries, ginger has been known as a healing ingredient. It’s the go-to home remedy for everything from nausea (a popular pick for morning sickness if you’re pregnant) and an upset stomach as well as detoxes and cleanses. And while ginger is great for natural ailments, it can benefit your skin, too. To learn how, we reached out to dermatologists Audrey Kunin, MD, Ava Shamban, MD, and Teresa Song, MD. Keep reading for our expert-approved guide to using ginger for skin.
Meet the Experts
- Audrey Kunin, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dermadoctor.
- Ava Shamban, MD, is a cosmetic dermatologist and founder of Skin Five in LA.
- Teresa Song, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical.
What Is Ginger?
Ginger is a root superfood with medicinal properties that have been exploited for thousands of years. It boasts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities which contribute to the spice’s myriad health benefits (more on those, below).
Ginger
Type of Ingredient: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
Main Benefits: Improves skin tone and texture, plus reduces swelling.
Who Should Use It: It is recommended for acne-prone skin and combination to oily skin types. “Ginger-based products should be avoided by those with highly sensitive skin,” says Dr. Song.
How Often Can You Use It: One to two times daily.
Works Well With: Moisturizers and serums.
Don’t Use With: Other exfoliating agents, such as retinoids.
Benefits of Ginger for the Skin
- Fades scars: “Ginger possesses both antioxidant properties and has a toning effect, making it able to normalize hypopigmented scars (scars lighter than your natural skin tone),” says Dr. Kunin.
- Reduces inflammation: “The active compound, gingerol, has strong anti-inflammatory properties that combat redness and swelling,” says Dr. Song. As an anti-inflammatory, Dr. Shamban notes that ginger can reduce inflammation and irritation in some skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and inflamed acne. These de-puffing properties can also help minimize the appearance of dimpling (read: cellulite), adds Dr. Kunin.
- Brightens skin tone: “Ginger is recognized for its brightening effects and is rich in antioxidants,” Dr. Song tells us. “Its ability to protect against free radicals and environmental stressors contributes to its anti-aging benefits.”
- Rejuvenates skin: “There is some actual data suggesting that it has a damping influence on the enzymes that break down collagen, the MMPs [matrix metalloproteinases] aka collagenase,” explains Dr. Shamban. Since your collagen contributes to a youthful appearance, this powerhouse ingredient interferes in the breaking down of it, making it a great anti-aging tool.
- Combats acne: “Gingerol has been found to have strong antibacterial activity, supporting its role in acne treatments,” says Dr. Song.
- Promotes a healthy scalp: Ginger is also an excellent remedy for dandruff. “Its antiseptic nature helps keep levels of natural yeast and bacteria– which trigger dandruff– low,” says Dr. Kunin.
Skin Type Considerations
“Ginger can be beneficial for those with acne-prone skin and combination to oily skin types,” says Dr. Song. It can also help to address various skin concerns including dullness, uneven pigmentation, and wrinkles, she tells us. “However, the sensitivity and tolerability of ginger need further research, and those with sensitive skin should be cautious with topical application,” she adds.
Side Effects
According to Dr. Song, potential side effects from using ginger-based products can include irritation, allergic reaction, and dryness. “Remember to spot test before whole face application, and exercise caution in those with dry and sensitive skin,” she says. “Additionally, ginger should not be combined with other exfoliating agents (such as acids and physical exfoliants), or retinoids, as it can increase the risk of irritation.”
Byrdie Tip
“Unrefined fresh ginger can potentially cause irritation on the skin,” cautions Dr. Song. “So it is best to opt for skincare products such as serums or creams containing extracted bioactives from gingers to avoid irritation.”
How to Use it
“Ginger-containing products can be used once to twice a day for their antioxidant and brightening effects,” says Dr.Song. “Start with a spot test to ensure the product is tolerated before applying it to all areas,” she emphasizes.
For Your Face
- Oil and Serum: Dr. Song recommends incorporating a face oil or serum into your skincare routine to promote a healthy complexion. She likes Sunday Riley CEO Glow Vitamin C and Turmeric Face Oil, which is formulated with a blend of ginger and antioxidants that are gentle enough for those with dry sensitive skin.
- Cream: Reap the benefits of ginger with a face cream, such as Innisfree Nourishing Cream with Ginger Honey, which comes recommended by Dr. Song. Made with calming honey and anti-inflammatory ginger, it is super nourishing.
- Mask: You can also whip up a biweekly mask of equal parts grated or powdered ginger, honey, and fresh lemon juice. Leave it on for up to 30 minutes, and rinse to reveal radiant skin. You can also boil the same three ingredients to make yourself a stomach-healing tea.
Byrdie Tip
“In terms of DIY skincare, adding ginger to yogurt and honey as a powder can reduce inflammation and be used for acne support or some anti-aging,” says Dr. Shamban.
For Your Body
- Scrub: For cellulite, stimulate circulation and tone your skin with a cellulite-busting lemon-ginger body scrub. Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 cup olive oil, two tablespoons of freshly grated ginger, and the zest of one lemon. You can store the leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Cream: After exfoliating, Dr. Song recommends applying a body cream, like Origins Ginger Souffle Whipped Body Cream, which is packed with antioxidants and delivers deep hydration.
For Your Scalp
“Dermadoctor’s Lucky Bamboo Quench & Set Essence Spray is a refreshing wellness mist replete with antioxidants like ginger, electrolytes, and minerals,” says Dr. Kunin. This rejuvenating mist is the perfect way to easily add ginger to your daily routine. It’s great for anyone wanting to strengthen hair with vitamins and nutrients while also keeping their scalp happy and healthy.
For Scars
For skin that is dealing with scarring, just dab a slice of fresh ginger onto the areas of your skin that are lacking color, and let the juice dry. Do this once or twice a day, every day, and you should start to see an improvement in a couple of weeks. Within a few months, your scars will be nearly undetectable.
Final Takeaway
From reducing inflammation to improving dullness, ginger is a skincare savior. While most skin types can benefit from the ancient ingredient’s antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s still recommended to do a patch test when first trying it out. And those with sensitive skin may want to use a serum or cream formulated with ginger versus applying the raw ingredient directly to skin to avoid irritation. Overall, incorporating the ingredient into your routine is a low-effort way to maximize skin’s health.
Stocksy
Key Takeaways
- Ginger contains gingerol, which helps reduce inflammation and redness in skin conditions like acne and eczema.
- Ginger is beneficial for acne-prone and oily skin types but may irritate sensitive skin if applied directly.
- Dermatologists recommend using ginger-based skincare products with moisturizers and serums for their brightening and antioxidant effects.
For centuries, ginger has been known as a healing ingredient. It’s the go-to home remedy for everything from nausea (a popular pick for morning sickness if you’re pregnant) and an upset stomach as well as detoxes and cleanses. And while ginger is great for natural ailments, it can benefit your skin, too. To learn how, we reached out to dermatologists Audrey Kunin, MD, Ava Shamban, MD, and Teresa Song, MD. Keep reading for our expert-approved guide to using ginger for skin.
Meet the Experts
- Audrey Kunin, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dermadoctor.
- Ava Shamban, MD, is a cosmetic dermatologist and founder of Skin Five in LA.
- Teresa Song, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical.
What Is Ginger?
Ginger is a root superfood with medicinal properties that have been exploited for thousands of years. It boasts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities which contribute to the spice’s myriad health benefits (more on those, below).
Ginger
Type of Ingredient: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
Main Benefits: Improves skin tone and texture, plus reduces swelling.
Who Should Use It: It is recommended for acne-prone skin and combination to oily skin types. “Ginger-based products should be avoided by those with highly sensitive skin,” says Dr. Song.
How Often Can You Use It: One to two times daily.
Works Well With: Moisturizers and serums.
Don’t Use With: Other exfoliating agents, such as retinoids.
Benefits of Ginger for the Skin
- Fades scars: “Ginger possesses both antioxidant properties and has a toning effect, making it able to normalize hypopigmented scars (scars lighter than your natural skin tone),” says Dr. Kunin.
- Reduces inflammation: “The active compound, gingerol, has strong anti-inflammatory properties that combat redness and swelling,” says Dr. Song. As an anti-inflammatory, Dr. Shamban notes that ginger can reduce inflammation and irritation in some skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and inflamed acne. These de-puffing properties can also help minimize the appearance of dimpling (read: cellulite), adds Dr. Kunin.
- Brightens skin tone: “Ginger is recognized for its brightening effects and is rich in antioxidants,” Dr. Song tells us. “Its ability to protect against free radicals and environmental stressors contributes to its anti-aging benefits.”
- Rejuvenates skin: “There is some actual data suggesting that it has a damping influence on the enzymes that break down collagen, the MMPs [matrix metalloproteinases] aka collagenase,” explains Dr. Shamban. Since your collagen contributes to a youthful appearance, this powerhouse ingredient interferes in the breaking down of it, making it a great anti-aging tool.
- Combats acne: “Gingerol has been found to have strong antibacterial activity, supporting its role in acne treatments,” says Dr. Song.
- Promotes a healthy scalp: Ginger is also an excellent remedy for dandruff. “Its antiseptic nature helps keep levels of natural yeast and bacteria– which trigger dandruff– low,” says Dr. Kunin.
Skin Type Considerations
“Ginger can be beneficial for those with acne-prone skin and combination to oily skin types,” says Dr. Song. It can also help to address various skin concerns including dullness, uneven pigmentation, and wrinkles, she tells us. “However, the sensitivity and tolerability of ginger need further research, and those with sensitive skin should be cautious with topical application,” she adds.
Side Effects
According to Dr. Song, potential side effects from using ginger-based products can include irritation, allergic reaction, and dryness. “Remember to spot test before whole face application, and exercise caution in those with dry and sensitive skin,” she says. “Additionally, ginger should not be combined with other exfoliating agents (such as acids and physical exfoliants), or retinoids, as it can increase the risk of irritation.”
Byrdie Tip
“Unrefined fresh ginger can potentially cause irritation on the skin,” cautions Dr. Song. “So it is best to opt for skincare products such as serums or creams containing extracted bioactives from gingers to avoid irritation.”
How to Use it
“Ginger-containing products can be used once to twice a day for their antioxidant and brightening effects,” says Dr.Song. “Start with a spot test to ensure the product is tolerated before applying it to all areas,” she emphasizes.
For Your Face
- Oil and Serum: Dr. Song recommends incorporating a face oil or serum into your skincare routine to promote a healthy complexion. She likes Sunday Riley CEO Glow Vitamin C and Turmeric Face Oil, which is formulated with a blend of ginger and antioxidants that are gentle enough for those with dry sensitive skin.
- Cream: Reap the benefits of ginger with a face cream, such as Innisfree Nourishing Cream with Ginger Honey, which comes recommended by Dr. Song. Made with calming honey and anti-inflammatory ginger, it is super nourishing.
- Mask: You can also whip up a biweekly mask of equal parts grated or powdered ginger, honey, and fresh lemon juice. Leave it on for up to 30 minutes, and rinse to reveal radiant skin. You can also boil the same three ingredients to make yourself a stomach-healing tea.
Byrdie Tip
“In terms of DIY skincare, adding ginger to yogurt and honey as a powder can reduce inflammation and be used for acne support or some anti-aging,” says Dr. Shamban.
For Your Body
- Scrub: For cellulite, stimulate circulation and tone your skin with a cellulite-busting lemon-ginger body scrub. Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 cup olive oil, two tablespoons of freshly grated ginger, and the zest of one lemon. You can store the leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Cream: After exfoliating, Dr. Song recommends applying a body cream, like Origins Ginger Souffle Whipped Body Cream, which is packed with antioxidants and delivers deep hydration.
For Your Scalp
“Dermadoctor’s Lucky Bamboo Quench & Set Essence Spray is a refreshing wellness mist replete with antioxidants like ginger, electrolytes, and minerals,” says Dr. Kunin. This rejuvenating mist is the perfect way to easily add ginger to your daily routine. It’s great for anyone wanting to strengthen hair with vitamins and nutrients while also keeping their scalp happy and healthy.
For Scars
For skin that is dealing with scarring, just dab a slice of fresh ginger onto the areas of your skin that are lacking color, and let the juice dry. Do this once or twice a day, every day, and you should start to see an improvement in a couple of weeks. Within a few months, your scars will be nearly undetectable.
Final Takeaway
From reducing inflammation to improving dullness, ginger is a skincare savior. While most skin types can benefit from the ancient ingredient’s antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s still recommended to do a patch test when first trying it out. And those with sensitive skin may want to use a serum or cream formulated with ginger versus applying the raw ingredient directly to skin to avoid irritation. Overall, incorporating the ingredient into your routine is a low-effort way to maximize skin’s health.
Key Takeaways
- Ginger contains gingerol, which helps reduce inflammation and redness in skin conditions like acne and eczema.
- Ginger is beneficial for acne-prone and oily skin types but may irritate sensitive skin if applied directly.
- Dermatologists recommend using ginger-based skincare products with moisturizers and serums for their brightening and antioxidant effects.
For centuries, ginger has been known as a healing ingredient. It’s the go-to home remedy for everything from nausea (a popular pick for morning sickness if you’re pregnant) and an upset stomach as well as detoxes and cleanses. And while ginger is great for natural ailments, it can benefit your skin, too. To learn how, we reached out to dermatologists Audrey Kunin, MD, Ava Shamban, MD, and Teresa Song, MD. Keep reading for our expert-approved guide to using ginger for skin.
Meet the Experts
- Audrey Kunin, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dermadoctor.
- Ava Shamban, MD, is a cosmetic dermatologist and founder of Skin Five in LA.
- Teresa Song, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical.
What Is Ginger?
Ginger is a root superfood with medicinal properties that have been exploited for thousands of years. It boasts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities which contribute to the spice’s myriad health benefits (more on those, below).
Ginger
Type of Ingredient: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
Main Benefits: Improves skin tone and texture, plus reduces swelling.
Who Should Use It: It is recommended for acne-prone skin and combination to oily skin types. “Ginger-based products should be avoided by those with highly sensitive skin,” says Dr. Song.
How Often Can You Use It: One to two times daily.
Works Well With: Moisturizers and serums.
Don’t Use With: Other exfoliating agents, such as retinoids.
Benefits of Ginger for the Skin
- Fades scars: “Ginger possesses both antioxidant properties and has a toning effect, making it able to normalize hypopigmented scars (scars lighter than your natural skin tone),” says Dr. Kunin.
- Reduces inflammation: “The active compound, gingerol, has strong anti-inflammatory properties that combat redness and swelling,” says Dr. Song. As an anti-inflammatory, Dr. Shamban notes that ginger can reduce inflammation and irritation in some skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and inflamed acne. These de-puffing properties can also help minimize the appearance of dimpling (read: cellulite), adds Dr. Kunin.
- Brightens skin tone: “Ginger is recognized for its brightening effects and is rich in antioxidants,” Dr. Song tells us. “Its ability to protect against free radicals and environmental stressors contributes to its anti-aging benefits.”
- Rejuvenates skin: “There is some actual data suggesting that it has a damping influence on the enzymes that break down collagen, the MMPs [matrix metalloproteinases] aka collagenase,” explains Dr. Shamban. Since your collagen contributes to a youthful appearance, this powerhouse ingredient interferes in the breaking down of it, making it a great anti-aging tool.
- Combats acne: “Gingerol has been found to have strong antibacterial activity, supporting its role in acne treatments,” says Dr. Song.
- Promotes a healthy scalp: Ginger is also an excellent remedy for dandruff. “Its antiseptic nature helps keep levels of natural yeast and bacteria– which trigger dandruff– low,” says Dr. Kunin.
Skin Type Considerations
“Ginger can be beneficial for those with acne-prone skin and combination to oily skin types,” says Dr. Song. It can also help to address various skin concerns including dullness, uneven pigmentation, and wrinkles, she tells us. “However, the sensitivity and tolerability of ginger need further research, and those with sensitive skin should be cautious with topical application,” she adds.
Side Effects
According to Dr. Song, potential side effects from using ginger-based products can include irritation, allergic reaction, and dryness. “Remember to spot test before whole face application, and exercise caution in those with dry and sensitive skin,” she says. “Additionally, ginger should not be combined with other exfoliating agents (such as acids and physical exfoliants), or retinoids, as it can increase the risk of irritation.”
Byrdie Tip
“Unrefined fresh ginger can potentially cause irritation on the skin,” cautions Dr. Song. “So it is best to opt for skincare products such as serums or creams containing extracted bioactives from gingers to avoid irritation.”
How to Use it
“Ginger-containing products can be used once to twice a day for their antioxidant and brightening effects,” says Dr.Song. “Start with a spot test to ensure the product is tolerated before applying it to all areas,” she emphasizes.
For Your Face
- Oil and Serum: Dr. Song recommends incorporating a face oil or serum into your skincare routine to promote a healthy complexion. She likes Sunday Riley CEO Glow Vitamin C and Turmeric Face Oil, which is formulated with a blend of ginger and antioxidants that are gentle enough for those with dry sensitive skin.
- Cream: Reap the benefits of ginger with a face cream, such as Innisfree Nourishing Cream with Ginger Honey, which comes recommended by Dr. Song. Made with calming honey and anti-inflammatory ginger, it is super nourishing.
- Mask: You can also whip up a biweekly mask of equal parts grated or powdered ginger, honey, and fresh lemon juice. Leave it on for up to 30 minutes, and rinse to reveal radiant skin. You can also boil the same three ingredients to make yourself a stomach-healing tea.
Byrdie Tip
“In terms of DIY skincare, adding ginger to yogurt and honey as a powder can reduce inflammation and be used for acne support or some anti-aging,” says Dr. Shamban.
For Your Body
- Scrub: For cellulite, stimulate circulation and tone your skin with a cellulite-busting lemon-ginger body scrub. Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 cup olive oil, two tablespoons of freshly grated ginger, and the zest of one lemon. You can store the leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Cream: After exfoliating, Dr. Song recommends applying a body cream, like Origins Ginger Souffle Whipped Body Cream, which is packed with antioxidants and delivers deep hydration.
For Your Scalp
“Dermadoctor’s Lucky Bamboo Quench & Set Essence Spray is a refreshing wellness mist replete with antioxidants like ginger, electrolytes, and minerals,” says Dr. Kunin. This rejuvenating mist is the perfect way to easily add ginger to your daily routine. It’s great for anyone wanting to strengthen hair with vitamins and nutrients while also keeping their scalp happy and healthy.
For Scars
For skin that is dealing with scarring, just dab a slice of fresh ginger onto the areas of your skin that are lacking color, and let the juice dry. Do this once or twice a day, every day, and you should start to see an improvement in a couple of weeks. Within a few months, your scars will be nearly undetectable.
Final Takeaway
From reducing inflammation to improving dullness, ginger is a skincare savior. While most skin types can benefit from the ancient ingredient’s antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s still recommended to do a patch test when first trying it out. And those with sensitive skin may want to use a serum or cream formulated with ginger versus applying the raw ingredient directly to skin to avoid irritation. Overall, incorporating the ingredient into your routine is a low-effort way to maximize skin’s health.
Source URL: https://www.byrdie.com/ginger-for-skin-11891121