Chinese culture takes limelight as the world welcomed the Year of the Red Fire Rooster today, Jan. 28. As one of the oldest civilizations on earth, the Chinese were known to be endlessly inventive. However, they are also most known for one thing- their ancient beauty secrets.

In celebration of the Lunar New Year, experts gave out some practices that the Chinese do to maintain their youthful look and glowing skin. Some of these secrets were even as old as their civilization. These practices range from different rituals and remedies which became a mundane part of their everyday lives.
When it comes to skin rejuvenation, the Chinese apply a face mask using pearl powder. This is concocted by mixing oyster shell powder together with honey and egg yolk. This mixture is said to have the ability to reduce inflammation and ‘tame’ skin irritation.

STYLECRAZE said that green tea is a staple drink for the Chinese. It has anti-oxidants called Catechins which can slow down aging. It can also strengthen the immune system. To improve the taste of green tea, some add honey and lime to it.

Rice water is used by the Chinese to tone and enhance their skin. Rice water can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It is popular because every household in China can get rice water whenever they cook rice.

The Chinese also use a face mask made out of egg whites. This reduces the wrinkles in their face. They apply the egg whites for 20 minutes and rinse it off with cool water afterwards. According to Marie Claire, the Chinese are known for their radiant skin and healthy hair. Moreover, their beauty and health practices have inspired many local and international beauty products to research on their culture of wellness. From the time of the Qing dynasty, it has been known that Chinese women have already relied on home-made beauty products to maintain their glow.

However, despite having invented some of the world’s foremost beauty secrets, there have been recent reports claiming that China’s cosmetic surgery industry has grown to 20 percent over the last few years. Experts said that most patients who go under the knife have Body Dysmorphic Disorder. This is described as a mental illness in which a cosmetic surgeon patients perceives small imperfections as something derogatory.