There’s an ingredient that has been quietly making its way from your kitchen to the vanity. And if you’re a soy sauce lover, it might just be the skincare ingredient you've been dreaming of—food for your skin, quite literally. Whether your skin is feeling parched or just needs a little pick-me-up, bean extract is making a bold leap from your sushi rolls to your self-care routine with the Korean skincare brand, Mixsoon. But what exactly is it and why should it be on your radar? We let you in on everything.
What is bean extract?
The name says it all, really. Soybean extract, sourced from the humble legume, is packed with antioxidants, proteins and essential amino acids, making it a skincare hero. While its benefits have roots in ancient Asian beauty traditions, soybean extract has recently taken the beauty world by storm—especially K-beauty shelves—for its ability to soothe, hydrate and revitalise the skin.
How does it benefit your skin?
While soybean extract may sound a bit culinary, it also doubles as a high-performing skincare ingredient with a slew of benefits.
It offers deep hydration
Soybean extract is brimming with lipids and proteins that help lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated all day long. Its ability to bolster the skin’s natural barrier means you can say ciao to dry patches for supple, dewy glow.
It offers a radiant glow
Loaded with antioxidants like vitamins C and E, soybean extract helps in reducing skin redness and hyperpigmentation. Regular use can lead to a more radiant and even-toned skin, making dullness a thing of the past.
It helps turn the clocks back
Rich in isoflavones, soybean extract boosts collagen production and enhances skin elasticity, thereby reducing the appearance of fine lines. It leaves your skin feeling firm and revitalised.
How to incorporate bean extract in your skincare routine?
Step 1: Cleanse
Begin with a clean slate by using your regular cleanser, followed by a toner. This preps your skin for the steps that follow.
Step 2: Exfoliate
Next, incorporate an exfoliating serum into your PM routine. The viral Mixsoon Bean Essence is a must-try as it sweeps away any dead skin cells. For a fresh glow, apply the essence and gently massage it in circular motions until you feel the residue lifting off. You can either rinse with water or softly wipe it away with a toner pad.
Step 3: Soothe and repair
You can also reach for the Mixsoon Soondy Centella Asiatica Essence post-exfoliation. This soothing formulation helps repair your skin’s natural barrier. Gently pat it in, until it’s fully absorbed.
Step 4: Hydrate
Now, quench your skin’s thirst with a hyaluronic acid serum. The Mixsoon Glacier Water Hyaluronic Acid Serum delivers glacier-sourced hydration for that coveted dewy, luminous look. For a moisture boost, apply two to three pumps of the serum or soak a cotton pad to create a hydrating skin pack; and leave it on for five to 10 minutes for deep nourishment.
Step 5: Lock in moisture
Seal in all that goodness with a bean essence face cream. The Mixsoon Bean Cream is ideal for retaining moisture, without feeling heavy, while also reviving dull skin. Pat the cream onto your skin until fully absorbed. During cold, dry seasons, double it up as a sleeping mask. Just apply two to three layers to wake up with firm, hydrated skin.
What else should you keep in mind?
Do a patch test first: Always start with a patch test to verify your skin’s sensitivity to the extract. Apply a small amount of the product to a discreet area and wait for 24 hours.
Cleanse thoroughly: Ensure you cleanse your skin properly before applying bean-infused products. Clean skin absorbs ingredients more effectively.
Look for synergistic products: Combine soybean extract with other skin-nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and centella asiatica that can amplify the benefits.
Try out facial massages: When applying a soybean extract-infused essence or cream, use a gentle massage technique to improve circulation and enhance absorption. This can also boost the skin’s elasticity and promote a healthy glow.
Don’t skip sun protection: Even though soybean extract can help protect against UV damage, it's not a substitute for sunscreen. Always follow up with broad-spectrum SPF during the day.
