11 Indian Herbs That Rival Korean Skincare Trends

2. Neem — Antimicrobial ally for acne-prone skin

Neem has a long reputation in Ayurveda for keeping skin clear. Traditional remedies use neem paste, oils, or washes because neem compounds show antibacterial and antifungal activity in lab studies, which helps with acne and minor skin infections. K-beauty brands often target breakouts with tea tree, centella, or salicylic acid. Neem can be a complementary natural option, especially where antibacterial action is desired without drying the skin aggressively. For DIY use, boil a few neem leaves and cool the infusion for a gentle face rinse, or mix ground neem with fuller’s earth for a clay mask. Avoid raw concentrated neem oil around the eyes and always dilute it; the smell is strong and a little goes a long way. As with other herbs, look for reputable suppliers and avoid unverified miracle claims—clinical-grade products that list neem extracts and have patch-test guidance are a safer bet than crude homemade concentrates for daily use.