Korean beauty trends are all about achieving that coveted glass skin—clear, dewy, and radiant. While skincare techniques like double cleansing and the famous Korean 10-step skincare routine are widely discussed, one aspect often overlooked is the role of diet and beverages in promoting youthful skin.

Many Koreans incorporate beauty drinks into their daily routine, not just for taste, but because they are believed to help with the skin’s health and aging process. These drinks are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and natural acids that help with skin repair, reducing wrinkles, and improving overall skin tone.

Let’s dive into 5 popular Korean drinks that promote glowing skin and slow down the signs of aging.

1. Green Tea (Nokcha)

When it comes to anti-aging, green tea is a timeless favorite. In Korea, it's known as nokcha and is consumed regularly for its powerful antioxidant properties. Green tea is rich in EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), a compound that helps neutralize free radicals that cause skin damage. Regular consumption can protect your skin from sun damage, pollution, and the harmful effects of aging.

How to Enjoy It:

• Brew green tea with water heated to about 70-80°C for 1-2 minutes.

• Avoid steeping at higher temperatures to prevent bitterness while preserving nutrients.

• Sip it in place of your regular coffee for a calming and skin-enhancing beverage.

Why It Works:

• Rich in antioxidants that help protect the skin from oxidative stress, one of the leading causes of aging.

• Promotes a radiant complexion and aids in detoxifying the body, leading to healthier skin.

2. Bori Cha (Barley Tea)

Bori cha, or barley tea, is a beloved drink in Korean households, especially in the warmer months. This roasted, nutty-flavored tea is caffeine-free, making it suitable to sip all day long. The drink is packed with antioxidants and fiber, supporting digestion and providing anti-inflammatory benefits.

How to Enjoy It:

• Steep roasted barley in hot water for about 5-10 minutes.

• Chill it in the fridge and enjoy it cold for a refreshing, hydrating drink.

Why It Works:

• Helps boost digestion, which is essential for nutrient absorption, leading to healthier skin.

• Anti-inflammatory properties reduce skin irritation, puffiness, and redness.

3. Honey Citron Tea (Yuja Cha)

When winter rolls around, Koreans turn to yuja cha, a warm and comforting drink made with honey and yuja (a citrus fruit similar to yuzu). It’s packed with vitamin C, which helps with collagen production—the protein essential for keeping skin firm and youthful. Its anti-inflammatory flavonoids also help to calm and brighten the skin.

How to Enjoy It:

• In a mug, mix 1 spoonful of yuja jam with hot water and stir well.

• Drink it as a comforting beverage to boost your immune system during colder months.

Why It Works:

• Vitamin C brightens the skin and promotes the formation of collagen, keeping skin firm and reducing wrinkles.

• The anti-inflammatory effects help soothe and calm irritated skin.

4. Rice Punch (Sikhye)

Sikhye is a traditional Korean drink made from fermented malted barley and cooked rice, creating a naturally sweet, refreshing beverage. This drink is rich in enzymes and probiotics, which are great for promoting a healthy gut. And as we all know, a healthy gut equals glowing, clear skin.

How to Enjoy It:

• Sikhye is often available premade at Korean markets. Serve it cold with ice for a cool, refreshing drink.

• Alternatively, you can make it at home if you have access to the ingredients.

Why It Works:

• Probiotics in the drink support gut health, which is essential for skin clarity and reducing inflammation.

• Naturally hydrating, Sikhye is excellent for skin rejuvenation and gives you a dewy glow.

5. Green Plum Tea (Maesil Cha)

Maesil cha is a tangy, sweet tea made from green plums (maesil), a fruit native to Korea. Green plums contain organic acids that help detoxify the body, calm inflammation, and balance the body’s pH levels. This drink is often used for its detoxifying benefits and is believed to support healthy skin by reducing oxidative stress.

How to Enjoy It:

• Mix maesil cheong (plum syrup) with water—either hot or cold—according to your preference.

• You can easily prepare it at home if you have access to the plum concentrate.

Why It Works:

• Rich in natural enzymes, maesil cha helps detoxify the body and improve skin texture.

• Anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness, puffiness, and signs of aging.

Why These Korean Drinks Work for Skin Health

Each of these drinks is rich in natural ingredients that provide key benefits for maintaining youthful, glowing skin:

• Antioxidants: Many of these drinks, like green tea and maesil cha, are packed with antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress—a major cause of skin aging and pigmentation.

• Gut Health Support: Drinks like bori cha and sikhye promote healthy digestion, leading to better nutrient absorption and clearer skin.

• Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for glowing skin, and these drinks are an excellent way to hydrate your skin naturally.

• Vitamin C: Found in drinks like yuja cha and maesil cha, vitamin C supports collagen production and helps in brightening skin while reducing wrinkles.

How to Start Your Korean Drink Glow-Up

To incorporate these drinks into your routine, start by choosing one that suits your taste or skin needs. Begin by swapping out sugary beverages or coffee for one of these natural, skin-loving drinks. Consuming them daily will gradually enhance your skin’s health and appearance.

Remember, beauty is a holistic process, so pair these drinks with a clean diet, sunscreen, and proper skincare to achieve the best results.

Conclusion: Cheers to Glowing Skin!

Korean beauty isn’t just about what you apply to your skin—it’s also about what you put in your body. Incorporating these traditional Korean drinks into your routine will not only help you stay hydrated but also support your skin's health from the inside out. Whether you enjoy a cup of green tea, sip on yuja cha, or refresh with a cold glass of sikhye, each of these drinks brings unique benefits to your skincare journey.

Here’s to glowing, youthful skin with a Korean twist! Drink up and watch your skin radiate with health and vitality.