Beauty Rituals from Around the World Self-Care Traditions Worth Trying

The beauty Edit with Beauty by Brooke. 

Beauty isn’t just about looking good; it’s deeply rooted in culture and tradition! Across the globe, different countries have unique beauty rituals that have been passed down for generations. From glowing skin secrets to hair treatments. Let’s take a journey through some of the most interesting beauty services from around the world, ones that are trending now and you might just want to add to your own routine! 

Japan: The Secret of Rice Water 

You may have noticed an influx in rice water skincare products over the last few years. This is for good reason, have you ever wondered how Japanese women maintain such youthful, radiant skin? One of their best kept secrets is rice water. Used for centuries, rice water is packed with antioxidants, amino acids, and vitamins that nourish and brighten the skin. Rice water has become a viral sensation on TikTok, with users showcasing its potential benefits for hair and skin care. The hashtag #ricewater has gained over a billion views, highlighting its widespread popularity. See for yourself and find what inspires you to give it a go! 

India: The Magic of Turmeric 

If you’ve ever seen an Indian bride covered in a golden paste before her wedding, she’s most likely indulging in a haldi (turmeric) ceremony. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial ingredient that brightens the skin, fights acne, and gives a natural radiance. With these easy to access ingredients you may already have at home a simple turmeric face mask is one of the most common at home DIY face masks. Mix with yogurt and honey and it can work wonders! Just don’t leave it on too long unless you want to turn yellow! 

Brazil: The Sand Scrub Exfoliation 

Brazilian beaches aren’t just for tanning, they’re nature’s perfect exfoliant! Many Brazilians use wet sand to scrub their skin, naturally buffing away dead cells and boosting circulation for a radiant glow. Brands like Sol de Janeiro have taken inspiration from these traditions, popularizing products like the Brazilian Bum Bum Scrub, designed to smooth, soften, and firm the skin. Whether you’re using a luxe body scrub or DIY-ing with beach sand, incorporating exfoliation into your routine is the secret to that coveted Brazilian glow! 

Morocco: The Power of Argan Oil 

Argan oil, often called “liquid gold,” is a staple in Moroccan beauty. Extracted from the kernels of the argan tree, this nutrient rich oil is packed with vitamin E, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids, making it a powerhouse for hair, skin, and nails. It deeply hydrates, adds shine to hair, soothes dry skin, and even helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Beyond pure argan oil, Moroccan beauty traditions have inspired some of the most luxurious and effective beauty brands worldwide. Many incorporate traditional ingredients like rhassoul clay, rose water, and black soap alongside argan oil to create spa-like beauty experiences at home. 

South Korea: The 10-Step Skincare Routine 

K-Beauty has taken the world by storm, and for a good reason. I believe Australia will make Korean skincare products more accessible this year and will become one of 2025’s most popular skincare products. Korean women swear by a 10-step skincare routine that includes double cleansing, exfoliating, toning, serums, sheet masks, and sunscreen. While 10 steps might sound overwhelming, their skin speaks for itself. I’m giving this a try myself and can’t wait to see the amazing results! 

Greece: The Golden Secret 

The Greeks have used olive oil for centuries as a beauty must have, and it’s no secret why. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, olive oil hydrates the skin, strengthens nails, and even works as a deep conditioning treatment for hair. Some say it’s the secret behind the Greeks thick, shiny locks, with rumours suggesting that ancient Greek women would soak their hair in olive oil to promote growth and maintain its shine. Olive oil offers a simple, natural, and affordable way to bring a touch of Mediterranean beauty into your routine. 

Beauty is universal, but how we practice self care varies across cultures. Whether it’s using rice water, turmeric masks, or argan oil, there’s something to learn from every corner of the world. So why not add a little international inspiration to your beauty routine?  

Important: While many have reported positive results, it’s essential to approach any trend with caution. Individual reactions can vary, and patch tests are important to consider before incorporating new products into your routine. 

Would you try any of these beauty rituals? Let me know! 

Follow me on Instagram (@beautybybrooke) for more beauty tips, tricks, and inspiration.