Can you believe that 60 year-old Korean Skincare Brand Sulwhasoo came out two years before cosmetics giant Estee Lauder, but has yet to be released outside parts of Asia until now? Finally joining the globalization of the cosmetics industry, Sulwhasoo has brought their skincare and cosmetics line to Bergdorf Goodman in the United States.

Herbalist and Acupuncturist Jill Blakeway of The Yinova Acupuncture Center presented the Korean cosmetic leader’s products alongside Steven Snook, Training Manager of Amore Pacific, who translated Blakeway’s spirituality into a more practical language for the mostly American audience.

Down to the bottles shaped like Hanbok, a traditional Korean women’s dress, the essence of Sulwhasoo is its pride in its Korean heritage.

Concentrated Ginseng Cream was passed around. When spread on, it smelled like the insides of a fresh plant — the pure white “milk” you could find if you peeled back the skin of a dandelion or plant. The cream, which is intended for night use, gleamed like soft oil and left a natural shimmer behind, the likes of which might resonate with the moonlight.

Connecting to Blakeway’s rich education in Asian Medicine and Sprituality was physicist (yes, as in physics!), Marek Stempi of Fusion Yoga. Together they reminisced about famous instructor Mantak Cmia and their obsessive love for the subjects. Blakeway explained to me, “People like us learn something new every day. I find myself in these incredibly profound situations because of my patients, as well.”

Something I learned was how there is little recognition of Korean culture in the United States. When discussing the main purchasers of Sulwhasoo, Blakeway commented, “The fact that [the Hanok dress] allows freedom of movement says a lot… especially in comparison to Japanese and Chinese women.” Stempi then added, “They are not wall flowers. In fact, they are very strong and passionate,” of which Blakeway strongly agreed.

And in case you’re interested, check out my Sulwhasoo Review!