Did you miss the Artemisia, or mugwort, trend? If so, Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum, or Hanyul Artemisia Hydrating Serum is a product you're going to love. With its soothing and hydrating properties, it's also a great choice for summer, when your skin may need a little extra comfort and hydration.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links (marked with *).
What's a serum?
A serum is a skincare product that is usually applied after toner and before moisturizer. Serums are typically formulated with a higher concentration of targeted or active ingredients, which is why they are sometimes simply referred to as "actives."
Some brands distinguish between essences, serums, ampoules, and concentrates as separate product categories. However, these terms are often used interchangeably, and there is no universal definition that clearly separates one from another. The main differences usually come down to the product's formulation, texture, and the brand's marketing approach.
What’s artemisia?
The genus Artemisia is a huge group of plants that includes hundreds of different species. Some are commonly known as mugworts, while others are called wormwoods or sagebrushes. Many Artemisia species have been used traditionally as medicinal herbs. One example is Artemisia absinthium, also known as wormwood, which is one of the plants traditionally used to make absinthe.
The origin of the name Artemisia is often linked to Artemis, the ancient Greek goddess associated with hunting and the wilderness, although the exact etymology is not completely certain. In Korea, however, the cultural story surrounding mugwort is quite different and is connected to one of the country's most famous foundation myths: the Legend of Dangun. Mugwort, known as 쑥 (ssuk) in Korean, plays an important role in the story. According to the legend, a tiger and a bear wanted to become human, so they went to Hwanung and asked him for help. He told them to stay inside a cave for 100 days and eat only garlic and mugwort. The tiger eventually gave up, but the bear persevered and, after completing the challenge, transformed into a woman. She later became the mother of Dangun, the legendary founder of Gojoseon, traditionally considered the first Korean kingdom.
This is also part of the reason why Hanyul's advertising for its Artemisia line draws on imagery that resembles this legend. Some of the brand's visuals and storytelling are inspired by the cultural significance of mugwort and its connection to Korean tradition.
What’s Hanbang?
Hanbang (한방) is commonly used to refer to traditional Korean medicine, a holistic medical tradition that has developed in Korea over centuries. You might notice that some of the herbs used in traditional Korean medicine are also found in Traditional Chinese Medicine. This shouldn't be surprising - many medicinal plants grow across different regions and have been used by various cultures throughout history. However, Hanbang is a distinct Korean medical tradition with its own theories, practices, and herbal medicine.
Hanbang isn't limited to skincare. It encompasses traditional approaches to health and medicine more broadly. In modern Hanbang-inspired skincare, the concept is often about combining traditional Korean herbal ingredients and knowledge with modern cosmetic science and formulation technologies. Ingredients such as ginseng, mugwort, licorice, and green tea are commonly associated with this approach.
Many Korean skincare brands, including some luxury brands, draw inspiration from traditional herbal medicine. This reflects the continued cultural importance of Korean medicine in South Korea. Traditional Korean medicine is also formally taught and studied at universities, with dedicated Colleges and Schools of Korean Medicine offering professional education and training. So, when you see the term "Hanbang skincare," think of it as skincare inspired by traditional Korean herbal medicine, often combined with modern cosmetic science and technology.
Meet the brand Hanyul
Hanyul is a Korean skincare brand and one of the brands in the Amorepacific portfolio - the same company that owns Laneige, Innisfree, Sulwhasoo, IOPE, and Hera. Hanyul combines traditional Korean remedies with modern skincare solutions. The brand's name, Hanyul, means "The Korean Principle of Balance." Its products are based on locally sourced ingredients such as mugwort, red rice, and beans. Hanyul is considered one of the hanbang skincare brands, as its formulas are inspired by traditional Korean medicine.
Fermentation and microbiome technology are among the important techniques used by the brand. Hanyul also pays close attention to where and when its ingredients are harvested. For example, the Artemisia used by Hanyul is hand-picked in the Ganghwa region of South Korea. The brand ensures that the leaves are harvested in May, when they are still young. The yuja used by Hanyul comes from the Goheung region. The fruit grows in a sunny, coastal environment and is harvested in winter, when the yuja is believed to have its highest antioxidant content.
In 2025, Hanyul launched its Yuja line at Sephora US, bringing the brand's traditional Korean-inspired approach to a wider international audience.
Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum - Product Claims
Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum helps balance excess sebum with the help of Inositol, without leaving the skin feeling greasy. At the same time, it provides deep, long-lasting hydration. The combination of low- and high-molecular-weight Hyaluronic Acid with White Hydration Coating Capsules™ helps deliver and maintain long-lasting hydration, leaving the skin feeling moisturized without heaviness.
Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum - Packaging
Personally, I’m a big fan of Hanyul because the brand uses glass packaging for most of its full-sized products. The main exceptions are the miniatures. The glass bottles have a delicate gradient design, with the English product information on one side and the Korean version on the other.
The product came in a paper box, and since I received a set, it included both the full-sized product and a miniature, along with some makeup-removing wipes.
Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum - Texture & Scent
The texture of Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum is lightweight. I would describe it as semi-liquid, with small capsules suspended in the formula. Once they come into contact with your skin, they quickly melt and blend into the rest of the formula.
The scent is herbal and smells distinctly like Artemisia, which isn't surprising. Some people might not enjoy it, but personally, I find the scent very calming.
Is Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum vegan/vegetarian-friendly & cruelty free?
According to Hanyul, all formulas created by the brand are vegan-friendly, and Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum is no exception.
Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum - Ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2, Artemisia Argyi Leaf Water (10,554 ppm), Xylitol, Diethoxyethyl Succinate, Isopentyldiol, PPG-13-Decyltetradeceth-24, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Betaine, Sphingomonas Ferment Extract, Ceramide NP, Arachidyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance, Stearic Acid, Phytosterols, Behenyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Sodium Metaphosphate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Arginine, Aspartic Acid, Glutamic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid (100 ppm), Inositol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Lactobacillus Ferment, Maltodextrin, Hydrolyzed Gardenia Florida Extract, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate (1.5 ppm), Tocopherol
Water is typically listed in cosmetic products as "Aqua" or "Eau". It acts as a solvent, but it is not the same as ordinary drinking water. In skincare products, water must meet strict purity standards to ensure it is free from impurities, including minerals, microorganisms, and other contaminants. In most formulations, water makes up the largest proportion of the product. Butylene Glycol is a multifunctional ingredient commonly used in skincare and haircare products. It acts as a solvent and humectant, helping to dissolve ingredients while attracting moisture to the skin and hair. It can also enhance the penetration of active ingredients, improve a product's texture, and prevent formulations from drying out.
Glycerin, also known as Glycerol, is a humectant that helps attract and retain moisture in the skin. Depending on the product, it can be derived from natural sources or produced synthetically. It helps protect the skin from TEWL (transepidermal water loss), a natural process in which water evaporates from the skin's surface. Glycerin is one of the components of the NMF (Natural Moisturizing Factor), which plays an important role in maintaining skin hydration. It is also widely used in hair care products due to its moisturizing properties. Glycerin is generally considered non-comedogenic and is unlikely to clog pores. Rather than irritating the skin, it can help support the skin barrier and reduce the feeling of dryness and irritation.
1,2-Hexanediol is a synthetic solvent and preservative booster. It helps protect products from microorganisms by enhancing the effectiveness of other preservatives. It also has humectant properties, helping to keep the skin hydrated, and is generally well tolerated by the skin. Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2 is an absorbent ingredient that can help reduce excess oil on the skin. It also gives the skin a soft, smooth appearance and can create a subtle blurring effect.
Artemisia Argyi Leaf Water (10,554 ppm) is an ingredient known for its soothing and calming properties. It can help comfort irritated skin and support a healthier-looking skin barrier, making it a great ingredient for sensitive or easily irritated skin. Artemisia Arygi is also known as Chinese mugwort or silvery wormwood. In Korean, Artemisia argyi is called 쑥 (ssuk). Mugwort has a long history in Korean tradition, from the myth of Dangun, which tells the story of the founding of the Korean nation, to its traditional uses in herbal medicine. To this day, Artemisia is still used in traditional herbal medicine. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol with humectant properties. It helps attract and retain moisture, helping to keep the skin hydrated.
Diethoxyethyl Succinate is an emollient that helps soften and smooth the skin while giving the product a pleasant texture. Isopentyldiol is a humectant and solvent. It helps attract and retain moisture in the skin while also improving the texture of the product, making it easier to spread and apply. PPG-13-Decyltetradeceth-24 is a surfactant and emulsifier that helps blend ingredients that would otherwise separate, such as oil and water, while also contributing to the texture and stability of the formulation. Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer is a polymer used as a thickener and emulsifier in cosmetic formulations. It helps stabilize oil-in-water emulsions and gives products a smooth, pleasant texture.
Betaine is an amino acid derivative that is widely used in skincare products for its moisturizing properties. It helps maintain the skin’s water balance, making the skin appear smoother and helping fine lines and wrinkles look less visible. Betaine also has soothing properties, which makes it beneficial for irritated or sensitive skin. In hair care, betaine does more than just moisturize the hair. It helps improve softness, smoothness, and shine, leaving the hair looking healthier. The betaine used in cosmetics is often derived from sugar beets. It is also a naturally occurring compound found in the skin and hair.
Sphingomonas Ferment Extract is a skin-conditioning ingredient that can also help improve the texture and feel of the product. Ceramides naturally occur in the skin - it's like cement in the skin. Ceramide NP or Ceramide 3 strengthens the skin barrier to prevent dehydration. Arachidyl Alcohol is an emollient that helps soften and smooth the skin. It also forms a protective film on the skin, helping to reduce moisture loss and keep the skin feeling hydrated. Ethylhexylglycerin is a multifunctional ingredient used as a preservative and preservative booster in cosmetic formulations. It has mild moisturizing and antimicrobial properties, helping to keep products stable while supporting the effectiveness of other preservatives.
Fragrance (Parfum) is a blend of aromatic compounds used to give a cosmetic product its scent. It can cause allergic reactions or irritation in some individuals, especially those with sensitive skin. Stearic Acid is a fatty acid that works as an emollient and emulsifier. It helps soften and smooth the skin while also helping to stabilize the formulation. Phytosterols are sometimes referred to as plant-derived sterols because they have a structure similar to cholesterol, a type of sterol found in animals. They are naturally found in plants and have moisturizing and skin-conditioning properties.
Behenyl Alcohol might sound intimidating, but it is actually a fatty alcohol. Unlike drying alcohols, fatty alcohols can be beneficial for the skin. Behenyl Alcohol acts as an emollient, helping to soften and smooth the skin while also improving the texture and consistency of the product. Arachidyl Glucoside is a mild, non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier made from arachidyl alcohol and glucose. It helps cleanse the skin while also helping to keep oil- and water-based ingredients blended together in cosmetic formulations. Sodium Metaphosphate helps regulate and stabilize the pH of cosmetic formulations.
Hydrogenated Lecithin is a version of lecithin. It works as an emollient in the formulas. Arginine is an amino acid that plays an important role in protein production in the body. Research has also looked at the connection between arginine and HSV infections, suggesting that arginine levels may influence how the virus behaves in the body. Aspartic Acid is an amino acid naturally found in the human body and plays a role in the urea cycle, which is involved in the removal of excess nitrogen from the body. In cosmetics, it is primarily used as a skin- and hair-conditioning ingredient and may help support the overall condition of the skin and hair.
Glutamic Acid is an amino acid that naturally occurs in the human body. It also acts as a humectant, helping the skin retain moisture, and plays a role in maintaining the skin's natural pH balance. Hyaluronic Acid (100 ppm) is an ingredient loved by many skincare enthusiasts. It naturally occurs in the skin, where it belongs to a group of molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). In simple terms, it is a long polysaccharide made of sugar molecules, which allows it to attract and hold water. Like other humectants, hyaluronic acid helps maintain skin hydration by binding moisture. One molecule of hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Hyaluronic acid is available in different molecular weights — smaller molecules can penetrate the skin more easily, while larger molecules mainly work on the skin’s surface, helping to reduce moisture loss and keep the skin hydrated.
Inositol is sometimes referred to as "Vitamin B8," but this is actually incorrect. Inositol can be synthesized by the human body, whereas vitamins, by definition, cannot be produced in sufficient amounts by the body and therefore need to be obtained from the diet. Since inositol is not a vitamin, "Vitamin B8" is simply a common but misleading name. Inositol has hydrating properties and may also play a role in maintaining healthy hair. Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol. In the beauty industry, it serves as an emollient. Many people associate alcohol with something awful for the epidermis, but not every alcohol is nasty. Cetearyl alcohol leaves a moisturizing film on the skin to prevent your skin from transepidermal water loss (TEWL). We use Cetearyl alcohol to create an emulsion.
Lactobacillus Ferment is a postbiotic ingredient that can help support a healthy skin microbiome. It has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties and may also help regulate sebum production and support acne-prone skin thanks to its antimicrobial activity. Maltodextrin is a multifunctional ingredient that can help stabilize cosmetic formulations. It also has moisturizing properties and can help absorb excess sebum from the skin. Hydrolyzed Gardenia Florida Extract is an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from oxidative stress. It can also be used as a natural source of blue pigment. When combined with Maltodextrin, it can be formulated into a blue coloring ingredient used to give cosmetic products a characteristic blue color.
Propylene glycol is a multifunctional ingredient used as a humectant and solvent in skincare formulations. It helps attract and retain moisture while improving the delivery of other ingredients. It can also form a lightweight film on the skin’s surface, helping to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Sodium Hyaluronate (1.5 ppm) is the sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid and a naturally occurring component of the skin. It has excellent water-binding properties, helping to attract and retain moisture for long-lasting hydration. By supporting the skin’s moisture balance, sodium hyaluronate helps maintain a plump and healthy-looking complexion. It can also form a lightweight moisturizing film on the skin’s surface and improve the stability of skincare formulations by preventing them from drying out.
Tocopherol is an antioxidant commonly known as Vitamin E. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps protect the skin from free radical damage and supports the skin's natural lipid barrier. It can also work synergistically with Vitamin C to boost antioxidant protection. Vitamin E may provide some photoprotective benefits, but it is not a substitute for sunscreen. Despite common claims, it does not act as a preservative or significantly improve scars. While some Vitamin E-rich formulations may feel too heavy for oily or acne-prone skin, Tocopherol itself is not universally considered pore-clogging.
How to use Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum?
Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum goes after toner and before moisturizer. Hanyul recommends using one pump when your skin feels oily and two pumps when your skin feels dry. You can use it both in the morning and evening.
I noticed that some sets with the Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum now come with a silicone brush to make application easier. But believe me, you can easily apply this serum without it, too.
How does Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum work?
It’s no secret that I’m a fan of Hanyul. Their formulas work well with my skin, even though they are often delicately scented. Normally, the Artemisia line from this brand comes in green packaging, but there are a few exceptions, including this serum, the toner pads, and the cream.
Read more about: Hanyul Pure Artemisia Watery Calming Cream
This formula might come as a surprise because nowadays, brands are trying to jump on the newest hot and trending ingredients as quickly as possible, so the majority of new releases contain spicules, azelaic acid, or PDRN. You won’t find these ingredients in Hanyul’s serum. Instead, the brand decided to go with good old hyaluronic acid in two different molecular weights - low and high.
The reason is simple: not every ingredient you put on your skin can penetrate it. There are systems that can help improve the penetration of active ingredients, such as encapsulation or spicules, but some higher-molecular-weight ingredients mainly work on the surface or in the upper layers of the epidermis.
Hyaluronic acid, however, isn’t the key ingredient here. That would be mugwort from Ganghwa, harvested around the time of the Dano Festival. Dano is a traditional Korean festival that, according to the lunar calendar, takes place on the fifth day of the fifth month. The leaves used in the formula are young, but they are harvested when they are considered to be at their peak.
If you have oily skin, the next ingredient that is a major focus of this formula might surprise you. Thanks to inositol, Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum is designed to help balance sebum production.
When you look at the texture, you might notice small capsules. Depending on the translation, some shops call them White Hydration Coating Capsules™, while others simply use the name Hydration Coating Capsules™. Meanwhile, the official materials use the name Mugwort Hyal™. I believe these names are all related to the key ingredients I mentioned above. Regardless of the name, the texture feels hydrating, and this is one of the few serums that doesn’t feel heavy on my skin.
I bought the Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum set last summer, but since it arrived a little late, I only used the miniature and decided it would be better to save the full-size product for the following year. This year, the heatwave has been so bad - and I’m worried it might get even worse - that serums like this have been helping me a lot.
Usually, I reach for serums that focus more on acne, blemishes, and dark spots. Formulas that mainly focus on hydration aren’t usually my cup of tea, but I made an exception for this product because it’s Hanyul and it belongs to the Artemisia line, which I’ve tried before.
I believe that for dry skin, this serum might not provide enough hydration on its own. But for oily or combination skin? I think it’s an ideal serum. It doesn’t make my skin feel oily, and I feel like it really helps with excess sebum. My makeup also seems to stay on my face longer, and I believe Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum deserves some credit for that.
Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum - Skin Compatibility
Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum is recommended for all skin types, but I think combination and oily skin might enjoy it the most.
Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum - Pros & Cons
Pros
Lightweight, hydrating texture
Suitable for all skin types, especially oily and combination skin
Doesn’t feel heavy or greasy on the skin
Helps keep excess sebum under control
Contains mugwort from Ganghwa
Contains hyaluronic acid in two different molecular weights
Delicately scented (herbal scent)
Absorbs easily and layers well with other skincare products
Cons
Might not provide enough hydration for very dry skin
The fragrance may not be suitable for those who prefer fragrance-free skincare
Alternatives to Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum
I don’t think there’s a serum that is truly similar to Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum, but if you want to focus on hydration, then Isntree Ultra-Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum* might be an option. Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum is a good choice for acne-prone skin, but it doesn’t help balance excess sebum. It does provide an additional layer of hydration, but I wouldn’t say that Anua offers a similar experience to Hanyul. If you’re looking for a product with mugwort, then I’m From Mugwort Serum*, Kundal Mugwort Soothing Energy Serum*, and Round Lab Mugwort Calming Serum* might be worth considering.
Where to get Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum and how much does it cost?
I got my set of Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum from Olive Young*, and it costs around $25 for a 40 ml bottle of serum + a 7 ml miniature. However, sometimes it’s worth paying $5 more to get a 40 ml bottle + a 40 ml refill for around $30.
When shopping at Olive Young Global, you can use my affiliate code BETWEEND0 to save on your order.
The same set with a full-size 40 ml bottle and a 7 ml miniature costs around $29 at YesStyle*. You can also use my referral code BETWEENDOTS to save on your order.
Overall, Hanyul Pure Artemisia Ssuk-Hyal Serum is definitely worth checking out if you have oily or combination but dehydrated skin.
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