Most of us know the basics of healthy skin: cleanse, moisturize, sunscreen. Simple, right? But when it comes to those “secret ingredients” that promise real radiance, the choices can feel overwhelming.
Among the many options, one ingredient has stood the test of time: ginseng. For centuries, it’s been treasured in Asia not just as a health tonic but also as a beauty secret. Many dermatologists also believe “ginseng is one of the most powerful herbal ingredients to support skin health”.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what ginseng is, how it works on skin, and why it deserves a place in your routine.
What is ginseng?
Ginseng is a root native to Asia and North America, pale in color and sometimes shaped like a tiny human figure. Its scientific name Panax comes from the Greek word for “all-healing,” reflecting its long history as a natural remedy.
Scientists have found that ginseng contains compounds called ginsenosides, which play a role in protecting cells and supporting regeneration [1]. It's a clean, natural ingredient you can feel good about adding to your routine and using daily.
Among the different species, Vietnamese ginseng (Panax vietnamensis) stands out as one of the rarest and most powerful. Found only in the mountainous regions of Vietnam, it carries an unusually high concentration of ginsenosides, making it especially valuable for skin health and vitality. This unique root is the inspiration behind Tonkina’s mission to bring Vietnam’s most precious botanicals to the world.
Why does ginseng matter for skin?
Reducing wrinkles and visible signs of aging
Wrinkles are often the first sign of aging skin. A 2017 study of 21 women aged 30-65 found that products containing Panax ginseng helped inhibit wrinkle formation and improved skin hydration [2].
Another study published the same year reported that ginseng extracts may slow key biological processes linked to skin aging, supporting healthier skin over time [3].
Improving circulation and enhancing oxygen supply are two of the most important factors in slowing skin aging. Research shows that ginseng can support both, helping skin stay nourished, and better able to repair itself over time.
Supporting elasticity and collagen production
Collagen loss begins in our 20s, and its decline leads to sagging over time.
Research suggests ginseng can help stimulate collagen synthesis. A 2020 study indicated that ginseng could restore skin elasticity, likely by boosting collagen protein activity in the dermis [4].
Calming puffiness and inflammation
Poor circulation often causes puffiness or swelling. Studies show that ginseng may help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.
For instance, a 2013 study with 40 participants found that ginseng improved circulation [5], while earlier research also highlighted its anti-inflammatory effects.
Brightening and evening out skin tone
Hyperpigmentation and dark spots are common with age. Recent research suggests ginseng can help by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme that drives excess pigment production.
In one 2020 trial, participants who applied ginseng cream twice daily for 8 weeks reported lighter, more even skin tone [6].
Soothing sensitivity
Ginseng stands out as a gentle botanical that’s well-tolerated, making it suitable for daily use while still delivering visible results. Its natural soothing effect also helps calm irritation, keeping sensitive skin balanced and resilient over time.
How to add ginseng to your routine?
Ginseng can be added to your skincare routine in more than one way - both topically (on the skin) and internally (through diet or supplements).
Topical use (skincare products):
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Serums – Deliver concentrated ginseng extracts deep into the skin to target wrinkles, dullness, and loss of elasticity. Our Youth 1700 Serum is designed exactly for this step, giving skin a potent boost of renewal.
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Creams & moisturizers – Combine ginseng with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture while supporting firmness and radiance. The Youth 1700 Cream pairs hydration with anti-aging support, perfect for daily use.
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Eye creams – Ginseng’s soothing and circulation-boosting properties help reduce puffiness and soften fine lines around the eyes. That’s why the Youth 1700 Eye Cream is one of the most-loved steps in the routine.
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Cleansers & toners – Offer a light antioxidant boost at the start of your routine.
Internal use (consumption):
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Supplements – Available in capsules or powders, ginseng is often taken to support energy, immunity, and overall vitality.
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Teas & infusions – Drinking ginseng tea provides antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress, supporting skin from within.
Sourcing & safety concerns
Ginseng is a valuable botanical, and global demand has raised concerns about overharvesting. In fact, some species are monitored under international trade agreements to ensure they’re not pushed toward endangerment. For example, American ginseng has been regulated under CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) since 1975, which means its trade must be carefully controlled to prevent depletion in the wild.
This doesn’t mean ginseng as a whole is disappearing, but it highlights why responsible sourcing matters.
When choosing skincare or supplements, look for:
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Clear sourcing – brands that disclose where their ginseng comes from.
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Minimal processing – heavy chemical extraction may reduce purity.
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Third-party testing – ensures the product is free from contaminants and chemicals.
Takeaway
Ginseng may be rooted in ancient tradition, but modern research continues to highlight its potential for skin. While not all ginseng varieties are the same, the right sourcing and consistent use can make it a powerful ally in any skincare routine.
It isn’t a miracle cure, but adding it to one or two steps in your skincare routine can provide real, noticeable benefits over time.And if you’re ready to try this secret, or simply upgrade your skincare routine, explore our Ginseng-Powered Skincare - Youth 1700 Collection.
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[1] Hwang, E. et al (2017). Antiaging effects of the mixture of Panax ginseng and Crataegus pinnatifida in human dermal fibroblasts and healthy human skin. Journal of Ginseng Research, 41(1), 69–77. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgr.2016.01.001
[2] Kang, J. et al (2013). Study on improving blood flow with korean red ginseng substances using digital infrared thermal imaging and doppler sonography: randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial with parallel design. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 33(1), 39–45. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0254-6272(13)60098-9
[3] Park, J. et al (2020). Effects of anti-wrinkle and skin-whitening fermented black ginseng on human subjects and underlying mechanism of action. Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, 83(11-12), 470–484. https://doi.org/10.1080/15287394.2020.1777492
[4] Park, M. Y., et al (2020). Effects of red ginseng on the elastic properties of human skin. Journal of Ginseng Research, 44(5), 738–746. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgr.2019.08.004
[5] Yang, Y. et al (2017). Ginseng: An Nonnegligible Natural Remedy for Healthy Aging. Aging and Disease, 8(6), 708. https://doi.org/10.14336/ad.2017.0707
[6] Zheng, M., et al (2018). Ginsenosides: A Potential Neuroprotective Agent. BioMed Research International, 2018, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/8174345