Camilla Jessen
Discover five fascinating skincare traditions you’ve probably never heard of.
From snail slime to nightingale droppings, these global beauty secrets may sound bizarre — but they’ve stood the test of time.
What seems unusual in one country might be completely normal, even sacred, somewhere else.
So grab your (figurative) passport — we’re taking you on a skincare tour across the globe.
You might just find your next glow-up in the most unexpected places.
1. Snail Slime Facials
Yes, you read that right.
In parts of Asia, live snails are placed directly on the face to let their mucus work its magic. The slime contains powerful ingredients like allantoin (which supports cell regeneration), glycolic acid (for gentle exfoliation), hyaluronic acid (for hydration), and peptides.
This ritual is popular in Thailand, Japan, and especially South Korea, where snail secretion is also used in creams and serums.
While effective, it’s not without controversy—PETA has raised concerns about how snail slime is harvested for cosmetics.
Too squeamish for live snails? Try one of the many Korean skincare products with snail extract instead.
2. Beach Sand Scrubs
In Brazil’s coastal regions, rubbing warm, fine beach sand onto wet skin is a natural exfoliating treatment.
This gentle scrub helps remove dead skin cells, boosts circulation, and leaves the skin smooth and glowing—plus, it’s a great prep for a more even tan.
Make sure the sand is clean and not too coarse. And skip this ritual if you have sensitive or damaged skin.
3. Lard and Ash Paste
Among some indigenous groups in Papua New Guinea, a traditional beauty and spiritual practice involves applying a mixture of pork fat and ash to the skin and hair.
The ash is usually made from burned wood or plants and sometimes mixed with clay.
This paste isn’t just symbolic—it acts as a natural insect repellent and sunblock while moisturizing and protecting the skin.
Used during ceremonies and rituals, the glossy look it leaves is considered a mark of beauty and strength.
4. Fire Therapy
Known as Huo Liao, this fiery treatment is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
A cloth soaked in alcohol and herbs is briefly set alight on the body before being extinguished.
The heat is believed to improve blood flow, release energy blockages (Qi), and promote collagen production.
This is not a DIY treatment and should only be done by trained professionals. While some swear by its benefits, dermatologists are skeptical—especially for facial use.
5. Nightingale Droppings Mask
Used by geishas and kabuki actors since the 17th century, this unusual facial treatment involves a mask made from sterilized nightingale droppings.
Known as Uguisu no Fun, the powder is rich in natural enzymes that brighten skin, reduce spots, and exfoliate gently.
Modern versions are purified, odorless, and considered a luxury in Japanese skincare. They’re especially popular for treating acne scars and uneven pigmentation.
Would you try any of them?
This article is based on information from Freundin.