A comparison of Mexican skincare and Korean skincare:
Mexican natural cosmetics is a hidden secret of nature that has not received as much attention as Korean cosmetics (aka K-Beauty). Wrongly so, as we think, because Mexico has one of the greatest biodiversity in the world and a long tradition in the use of natural active ingredients for skin care! In this article we will introduce you to some of the most important active ingredients in Mexican natural cosmetics and compare them with the synthetic active ingredients in Korean skincare.
You can find out more about Mexican natural cosmetics in our M-Beauty Lexicon.
Top 30 Mexican Beauty vs. K-Beauty active ingredients in comparison:
| Mexican skincare: | Effect: |
Korean |
| Achiote | Achiote has many skincare benefits such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, moisturizing and promoting collagen production as well as protecting against UV radiation which helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. |
synthetic vitamin C |
| Agave | Agave is rich in nutrients and has moisturizing properties. Agave is often used in the treatment of dry skin and fine lines. |
synthetic glycerin or AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) |
| Aloe vera | The healing properties of aloe vera have been known for centuries and are often used to treat burns and skin irritations. Aloe Vera is rich in antioxidants that protect the skin from free radical damage. |
synthetic Vitamin E & C and Snail Secretion Filtrates |
| Avocado | Avocado is a fruit native to Mexico and widely used in skin care, it is known for its moisturizing properties. Avocado oil contains many nutrients, such as vitamin E, B3 (niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3) that help nourish and protect the skin. | synthetic niacinamide |
| Altea | Often used to soothe and heal the skin, Altea also has moisturizing properties, particularly suitable for sensitive skin. | synthetic allantoin |
| Bugambilia | Bugambilia is a plant that is widespread in Mexico and known for its healing properties. The leaves and flowers of the plant contain many nutrients and antioxidants that can help nourish and protect the skin. Bugambilia is often used to treat skin irritation and inflammation. | synthetic hyaluronic acid |
| Calendula | Calendula has a calming effect on the skin and can help with irritated, itchy or inflamed skin. It is related to the original Mexican form Cempasúchil. |
Centella asiatica |
| Cempasúchil |
Cempasúchil, also known as calendula, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help soothe and protect skin. In addition, Cempasúchil can also help in wound healing and the treatment of acne. |
Centella Asiatica or Tiger Grass |
| Chaya | Chaya is often used to treat acne and control blemishes. It helps remove dead skin cells and control acne and other blemishes. | Salicylic Acid / Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) |
| Chia | Chia seeds are rich in hydrating agents such as omega-3 fatty acids, as well as antioxidants that keep skin hydrated and looking healthy. | synthetic glycerin |
| Chicalote | Chicalote is often used in the treatment of pain and inflammation. In natural cosmetics it is often used to treat acne, blackheads and other skin irritations. | synthetic niacinamide or retinol |
| Chicozapote | Chicozapote contains antioxidants, vitamin E and has moisturizing properties. It helps in the repair and regeneration of the skin | synthetic hyaluronic acid |
| Chiles | Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, it protects against free radicals and slows down the skin's aging process. | green tea extract |
| Chiltepin | Rich in capsaicin, it has an anti-inflammatory effect and helps to reduce skin irritation and soothe the skin. | Centella asiatica |
| Cocoa | Rich in antioxidants, cocoa helps in skin repair and regeneration. Cacao helps with collagen production, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and improving skin texture. |
synthetic |
| Guava | Contains vitamin C and antioxidants that help improve skin texture and promote collagen production. | synthetic vitamin E |
| Higuerrilla | Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it acts as a natural moisturizer, helping to soothe and nourish dry and rough skin. | jojoba oil |
| Huizache | Contains antioxidants and is anti-inflammatory to protect skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. | green tea extract |
| Jicama | Rich in vitamin C, acts as an antioxidant and promotes collagen production to slow down skin aging and improve skin elasticity. | synthetic niacinamide or retinol |
| Maguey | Contains polysaccharides that have anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties, helping to keep skin healthy and radiant. | Centella asiatica |
| Mamey | Mamey fruit is rich in antioxidants and vitamins that help slow down skin aging and increase collagen production. | synthetic retinol |
| Mezquite | Contains antioxidants and acts as a natural moisturizer that soothes and nourishes dry and stressed skin. | synthetic hyaluronic acid |
| Nopal |
Nopal, also known as opuntia or prickly pear, is an important ingredient in Mexican cosmetics. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that benefit the skin, moisturizing and firming. Nopal also contains silica, a mineral that helps tighten and firm the skin. |
synthetic |
| Tamarindo | Contains alpha hydroxy acids that remove dead skin cells and smooth the skin. |
synthetic AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) |
| Tejocote | Contains antioxidants and is anti-inflammatory, which helps improve skin's texture and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. | synthetic retinol |
| Tepezcohuite | Tepezochuite has anti-inflammatory and skin rejuvenating properties and is often used to treat acne, burns and other skin irritations. It can also promote cell regeneration and thus prevent fine lines and skin aging processes. | synthetic retinol |
| Tepozan | Has anti-inflammatory properties and helps fight acne and skin irritation. | tea tree oil |
| Tachiquinols | Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, it protects against free radicals and slows down the skin's aging process. | syth. vitamin C |
⚠️ Basic differences
Traditional ingredients:
Mexican skincare often relies on traditional plants and natural substances from the region that have been used by the indigenous people of Mexico for centuries. Korean skincare, on the other hand, relies on a combination of traditional Asian herbs and modern synthetic active ingredients.
Different focus:
While K-Beauty aims to achieve "transparent skin" and focuses on treating wrinkles and pigmentation, Mexican skincare (M-Beauty) puts more emphasis on treating skin damage caused by sun exposure, pollution and aging skin care in harmony with nature.
Packaging and marketing:
Korean skincare is often intricately packaged and advertised to create an emotional connection with consumers, while Mexican skincare is more focused on the natural ingredients and how they affect the skin.
