The Unique Differences of Asian Skin

Orcé Cosmetics was born out of frustration with current high-end beauty products on the global market. Despite Asians representing one of the largest ethnic groups in the world, it is often unbelievably difficult to find color cosmetics (from both Eastern and Western brands) that address the specific needs of our skin.

Each and every ingredient used in Orcé’s products is lovingly hand-chosen to benefit Asian skin and the unique qualities, vulnerabilities, and concerns that stem from both genetic and environmental factors.

Slower aging

Here’s the good news! Asian skin actually ages at a slower rate, which is probably why you’ve been complimented on your youthful appearance. The secret is that Asian skin has a thicker dermis (the layer of skin that contains collagen and elastin). And the more collagen and elastin you have, the fewer wrinkles you get. But it’s important to use beauty products that take special care to preserve this innate anti-aging property. Orcé has included Evodia Rutaecarpa (pronounced wú zhū yú in Mandarin), which has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Targeting skin microcirculation, it helps to maintain a flawless skin tone; preserving a more uniform, younger-looking complexion.

Increased oil production

Thanks to both internal and external factors, Asian skin tends to be oilier. The increased presence of oil glands (sebaceous glands) results in excess oil, which can enlarge pores and make it easier for acne to develop. Humidity can also cause your oil glands to overact, resulting in unsightly shiny patches and increased acne. Orcé’s Come Closer skin perfecting foundation is oil-free and made with non-comedogenic ingredients.

Water-loss and dryness

Dermatologists use the term “trans-epidermal water loss” (TEWL) to measure the amount of moisture that the body loses under non-sweating conditions. Asian skin tends to have the highest rate of water loss. If skin loses moisture, it can become dry and appear scaly, itchy, red, and irritated. Orcé added the clinical powerhouse hyaluronic acid to our Come Closer foundation to boost skin’s moisture level, while also helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, plump, tone, and strengthen the skin’s protective barrier against environmental irritants.

Sensitivity and scarring

Due to a thinner stratum corneum (the outermost layer of the epidermis), Asian skin is more prone to scarring, especially from issues like acne. Skin with thin stratum corneum also tends to be more sensitive. Since fragrance is a leading cause of skin irritation, Orcé formulated our Come Closer skin perfecting foundation without any added scent. Active ingredient Evodia Rutaecarpa has also been clinically proven to help provide a protective barrier against the effects of environmental stressors and pollutants.

Hyperpigmentation

Asian skin is much more prone to hyperpigmentation due to an increased amount of melanin, which puts us at risk for melasma, freckles, and sun spots. Orcé’s star ingredient, pearl extract, has been used in both TCM and Ayurvedic medicine for hundreds of years at the very least. It is revered for its powerful antioxidant properties and is known to brighten skin, encourage new cell growth, and help repair sun damage and scarring.