Ever wondered how babes in Bordeaux or Tokyo keep their skin firm, clear and wrinkle-free? Find out the answer in our handy guide to international anti-ageing secrets from across the globe! You just might want to smuggle some of these through customs…
CHINA: Green tea powder
We’ve all heard of the antioxidant benefits of sipping on green tea, but did you know it also works wonders for the complexion when applied topically? Chinese beauties in-the-know mix a brew of free-radical-fighting white tea with green tea powder (you can also add a little lemon to clarify the complexion), to form a mask that helps prevent dreaded wrinkles.
bb loves: Being Co. Pure Matcha Powder
AUSTRALIA: SPF!
If there’s one thing Aussie girls know the importance of, it’s sunscreen. Sun is the number one enemy of youthful skin, so daily protection is vital in our harsh climate. Opt for a 50+, broad spectrum sunscreen to shield against both cancer-causing UVA and photo-ageing UVB rays.
bb loves: La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL SPF 50+ Ultra-Light
JAPAN: Camellia Oil
For luxurious hair and youthful skin, Japanese women turn to camellia oil. Adding softness and shine to locks, this golden oil contains essential fatty acids and antioxidants and also makes the perfect non-comedogenic facial moisturiser. It’s easily absorbed, enhancing the skin’s ability to hold on to precious moisture, for beautiful, soft skin.
bb loves: La Mav Certified Organic Camellia Oil
FRANCE: A gentle approach
Those foxy French women know skin needs to be treated with respect, abiding by a softly-softly mantra. This is the country that’s responsible for the micellar water revolution, after all. Removing all traces of makeup and grime, these cult cleansing waters are suitable for the most sensitive types, and won’t strip the skin of essential lipids.
bb loves: Bioderma Sensiobio H20 Micelle Solution
GREECE: Olive oil
Not only is the Mediterranean diet known to promote heart health, it’s good for the skin, too! When they’re not using olive oil in the kitchen, these clever Greek goddesses are using it in their bathrooms. Olive oil is a wonderful, natural moisturiser for the face and body, packed full of antioxidants to help smooth and soften the skin, and even reduce the signs of sun damage.
bb loves: Cobram Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil
INDIA: Ayurveda
Ayurveda refers to the ‘science of life’ and is the Hindu system of health that centres around distinct mind-body types, or doshas. In order to achieve balance, you need to follow a diet and lifestyle regime that best suits your dosha. Do you have dry, delicate, wrinkle-prone skin? Chances are, your dosha is Vata. Each dosha requires a tailored beauty regime. Which makes a lot of sense when you think about it.
bb loves: the OmVeda range of Ayurvedic skincare
BRAZIL: Coconut water
It’s no secret this Latin nation is crazy for coconuts. And it’s for good reason. Coconut water is not only hydrating and delicious, it’s rich in minerals, as well as B-group vitamins. It is also said to flush the system of harmful toxins for clearer skin, while the cytokinins (plant hormones) found in coconut water are known to have an anti-ageing effect.
bb loves: C Coconut Water
ISRAEL: Dead Sea mud
When you have an incredible resource like the Dead Sea at your doorstep, you use it. Rich in salts and minerals, people travel from all over the world to experience the Dead Sea’s purported restorative benefits, including relief from skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Used as a mask, Dead Sea mud speeds up the natural exfoliation process, draws out nasty toxins, and is said to shrink pores, boost elasticity and improve texture.