Essences are the backbone of Korean skincare routine. No K-beauty skincare routine exists without essences, and for a good reason. It is not a toner that you put on a cotton pat to remove any residue. It is not a serum either, it doesn’t come in a small glass vile to deal with one specific skin concern.
Basically, an essence is a concentrated formula that targets fine lines, dull and uneven skin tones. They typically have an active ingredient that stimulate the skin’s natural cell turnover rate, and when used regularly you get smoother, brighter and youthful skin.
I’m from Mugwort Essence is one of those essences. Made in Korea, this essence contains a single ingredient – Mugwort (Artemisia Princeps Extract). This miracle ingredient has long been touted in Asia for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties.
It is only natural that I, a K-beauty obsessed millennial, had to try a new Korean essence!
So, let’s jump right into the I’m from Mugwort Essence Review!
Product claims: What does the I’m from Mugwort Essence claim to be?
A bit of a backstory: I’m from is a cruelty-free Korean brand we have reviewed before. I have especially enjoyed using their Rice Toner which has passed our sensitive skin test!
It is a brand with a unique philosophy, as they put transparency first. They include only single ingredients in their products and specify where it exactly comes from. Hence the name “I’m from”.
In the case of the I’m from Mugwort Essence, the mugwort is grown in Ganghwa County, South Korea. This Gangwa Mugwort is also referred to as Korean tea tree. The essence itself is formulated with 100% mugwort extract, based on their “single ingredient” approach.
Its skincare aims are refining skin texture and sooth sensitive skin, providing it with moisture level. This is also backed by research, as it helps improve dry skin conditions. It also has a calming effect on sensitive skin, and provides relief for irritated skin prone to redness.
It comes in a mini (30 ml) , and a full size (160 ml) bottles.
The ingredient list
This is probably the shortest ingredient list of all products we have reviewed, because it only includes the Mugwort – Artemisia Princeps Extract extract at 100%!
The brand believes that by including only one ingredient at a high concentration only adds to the efficiency of the product. I, for once thing agree with this, but it doesn’t mean it has to be the same for everyone. Different strokes for different folks!
Texture and Consistency of the I’m from Mugwort Essence
The texture of this mugwort essence is a bit watery, but it does have some thickness to it. I’d say it is very lightweight and doesn’t feel like you have put something on your face. Although it looks quite runny in the picture above. It is not like the milky texture of its other counterpart, the Rice Toner. Compared to that, this one is still more on the liquid side.
Overall, it sits very comfortably on the skin and gets absorbed by the skin right away. It doesn’t feel sticky once you rub it on your hand, however, it did feel tiny bit sticky on the face. Again, it is different for every skin type.
Packaging & Scent
The scent of the I’m from Mugwort Essence is very distinct. Despite the very strong herbal scent, it is not overwhelming once you apply it. It has that traditional smell that comes from the mugwort, and I didn’t really hate it. I guess I am glad that they didn’t add any fragrance and just kept the real plant’s authentic scent!
The product comes in a bottle placed in a carton. The packaging is nice and very practical. It does have directions on how to use it and all information. The brand strives for sustainability and use recyclable materials in the design of the packaging.
Overall thoughts: Does I’m from Mugwort Essence work?
I think it is a very lightweight, feel good essence that does its job well. It gets absorbed by the skin really quickly, doesn’t leave the skin feeling dry or greasy. It sits comfortably on the skin although it felt just a bit sticky. Plus, I am surprised that the smell of mugwort didn’t bother me at all, a person who isn’t a fan of smells.
When it comes to hydration though, it wasn’t the best one for me. In comparison with the rice toner, it did fall a bit short for me. Don’t get me wrong, I am not saying that it is not hydrating at all, but they got it right with the rice toner.
However, the calming effect was definitely there. I feel like we can compare mugwort to Centella Asiatica, in that regard. Except the pungent smell, LOL.
I didn’t notice any huge difference with redness on my skin. Maybe I needed to use it for a longer time. In my opinion, this is a great essence for oily/combination skin that might be prone to acne flareups. Fortunately, it didn’t make me break out, I can only be thankful.
If you have sensitive skin on combo side, I think you can greatly benefit from using the I’m from Mugwort Essence. It is non-comedogenic (meaning, it won’t break you out), it is lightweight, and will provide a decent level of hydration.
I'm from Mugwort Essence
I'm from Mugwort Essence
Who is I’m from Mugwort Essence for?
I think it is suitable for all skin types, but sensitive skin on combination side will enjoy is the most. With this lightweight consistency, it can do wonders for oily skin too. The anti-bacterial aspect of mugwort will help with congested pores and clear them out from within.
It will calm and soothe sensitive skin, while dealing with red spots and skin heat.
How to use the I’m from Mugwort Essence?
Apply this essence the way you would with other essences. As a rule of thumb, you should apply essence after cleansing, toning and all the exfoliating acids.
You can use cotton pad to apply it on your face. However, since I want to get the most amount out of skincare products, I pour it directly into my hands, rub them up and tap tap tap. Don’t forget your back and décolletage area!
The brand also suggests using it as a mask. Soak it in a sheet mask and leave it on the skin for 5 mins.
Final verdict: Is the I’m from Mugwort Essence a Holy Grail?
I am glad that I gave another shot to a new product from the brand. I would not put it in the list of holy grails products you must have in K-beauty routine, but it lies somewhere in the middle. If you are a K-beauty fan, trying an essence with such a high concentration can lead to positive results.
One thing is for sure: It is made for sensitive skin and does give relief to redness-prone skin by calming it down. I recommend you buy the mini size essence and see what it does for you. Overall, it is worth purchasing and you’d be happy with your purchase.
I'm from Mugwort Essence
I'm from Mugwort Essence-
Quality4/5 Good
-
Performance4/5 Good
The Good
- Very lightweight, doesn't feel heavy
- Highly concentrated with single ingredient
- Made for sensitive skin, great for all skin types
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory
- Suits acne-prone skin
The Bad
- A bit sticky
- Doesn't provide a high level of hydration
