BB Creams and other Asian beauty rituals we’re copying

Skin lightening product

Long considered a symbol of youth and beauty by Asian women, what began as a trend (skin lightening) is quickly becoming a universal beauty standard, explains beauty industry publicist and model Elise Hamamoto. “The latest skin brightening serums fortunately have replaced hydroquinone with drug-free substitutes. I like to apply mine before my anti-aging serum and follow up with an application of day cream. I then put on my makeup,” she says. Both sides of Elise’s family are from Japan, so it makes perfect sense that she first learned from her grandmother to include skin brightening treatments in her evening skin care routine — after cleansing and before a night cream — for an additional radiance boost.

BB creams

Popularized by Korean actresses who swear by the miracle product, BB creams (or Blemish Balms as they’re otherwise known) have really taken off here in the US. “BB Creams are great in that they function as a moisturizer, foundation, primer and SPF all in one,” says TV and film makeup artist and President/CEO of Advanced Mineral Makeup, Annie Mayo. While their Asian counterparts typically contain skin whitening ingredients, most of the Western BB creams do not. “Essentially, they’re a do-it-all product and since Americans want things done fast and easy, I think that’s why they’re so fascinated by them,” notes Annie.

Eyelash extensions

Forget strips of fake lashes that only last for a night or your plain old lengthening mascara. The latest trend in fringe hails from Asia and is much more permanent (okay, semi-permanent actually): eyelash extensions. Using some glue and a pair of tweezers, individual hairs are applied to your own (by a trained professional, of course), giving your lashes a longer, thicker, more dramatic look. The only catch is, the process typically takes between one to two hours and can range anywhere from $100 to $500! While this may seem like a steep price to pay for some, if your lashes are short and sparse like many Asian women, the cost could be well worth it.

Tell us

Which Asian beauty trend have you tried? Share in the comments below!

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