What do Koreans use instead of retinol?

Many Koreans turn to natural sources of vitamin A, like goji berries and fermented ingredients, instead of synthetic retinol. Herbal teas like this one are popular because they reduce signs of aging without the harsh side effects.

How to make a retinol shot at home?

You can brew a tea “shot” using ingredients like goji berries, lemon balm, and persimmon leaf. Simmer, strain, and drink 2–3 oz concentrated, or dilute for a full mug.

What is a good Korean retinol?

Instead of direct retinol, Koreans often use products or teas that contain plant-based alternatives like bakuchiol, fermented soybean, or beta-carotene from natural foods.

What tea do most Koreans drink?

Koreans enjoy many herbal teas including barley tea (bori-cha), jujube tea, and lemon balm. For skin, teas using persimmon leaf or goji berries are favored.

Korean Retinol Tea Recipe That Works: 1 Drink for Clear Skin

Name: Korean Retinol Tea Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 tbsp dried persimmon leaves; 1 tbsp dried goji berries; 1 tsp dried lemon balm; ½ tsp dried licorice root; 2 slices fresh ginger (or ¼ tsp dried); 2 cups water; Optional: raw honey or lemon

Description

A soothing Korean herbal tea packed with skin-boosting ingredients like goji berries and persimmon leaf to fight wrinkles and acne naturally.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tbsp dried persimmon leaves

1 tbsp dried goji berries

1 tsp dried lemon balm

½ tsp dried licorice root

2 slices fresh ginger (or ¼ tsp dried)

2 cups water

Optional: raw honey or lemon

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Instructions

Add all ingredients to a small saucepan and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes.

Strain into mug and add honey or lemon if desired.

Enjoy warm, ideally before bed.

Notes

Drink daily for at least 2 weeks to see noticeable skin benefits.

Store leftovers in fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently.

Customize with chrysanthemum, mint, or schisandra based on skin goals.

Prep Time: 5
Cook Time: 10
Category: Tea
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Korean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 15
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg