Artemisia (mugwort)

What it is

Artemisia is the plant family that includes mugwort. The Artemisia Aka line is built on Artemisia capillaris extract, a plant long used in Korean skin care. In the toner, the extract makes up most of the formula.

The line has its own colour in the Dr.SANTE range, a fresh green. It sits beside Azulene Soother (blue), Collagen Leader (pink) and Hyalquad Core (aqua) as one of the four main series.

Where SANTE makes it

Like every Dr.SANTE product, the Aka line is developed and made by SANTE Cosmetics in Busan, Korea. The line is described as being for oily and blemish-prone skin, with a mugwort base, sulfur and gentle acids.

Two ingredient names are specific to this line. AKA-DERM is SANTE’s name for a blend of six plant ingredients. LHASOL is a name for an ingredient system in the Aka formulas, and SANTE has a patent application for it, not a granted patent.

Where it is used

• Toner and pads: Artemisia Aka Toner and Toner Pad Limited Edition (Artemisia capillaris extract, LHASOL, gluconolactone, sulfur)
• Sheet mask: Artemisia Aka Semi-Gel Mask (Artemisia capillaris with houttuynia, white willow bark, tea tree and green tea)
• Make-up: BB Cream Duo Set includes an Artemisia Aka BB Cream for a fresher finish on oily skin

What skin it suits

The Aka line is made for skin that is oily, shiny or prone to blemishes, and for anyone who likes a fresh, clean-feeling routine. The toner is designed to help skin feel clear and refreshed. The semi-gel mask is designed to help skin look clearer and less shiny.

If your skin is more dry and easily upset, the Azulene Soother line is usually the gentler place to start. The two lines are also made to be used together, for example a blue gel on dry cheeks and the green toner on an oily T-zone.

How the pads work

The toner pads are dual texture. Wipe with the embossed side, or rest the smooth side on areas of concern. They also work as a quick mask before make-up.