Curious about heartleaf and why it’s a buzzworthy ingredient in K-Beauty? Here’s everything you need to know about this skin care superstar and how to harness its multitude of benefits to tackle your skin concerns!
What is Heartleaf?
Heartleaf, also known as houttuynia cordata, is a plant with heart-shaped leaves native to Southeast Asia. It’s been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory, hydrating and healing qualities, the botanical powerhouse has been harnessed by Korean beauty brands to treat a variety of skin concerns gently and effectively.
Skin Benefits of Heartleaf
Heartleaf extract is a versatile ingredient suitable for all skin types including sensitive, oily and acne-prone skin. Its multitude of benefits can be used to target common skin concerns:
- Soothes irritation and redness
Heartleaf is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds like flavonoids and polysaccharides that can calm skin redness and irritation. It’s ideal for treating sensitive skin-related concerns such as eczema and rosacea. Heartleaf is also a common key ingredient in Korean sunscreens to relieve sun-irritated skin.
- Prevents breakouts
Heartleaf’s antibacterial properties make it a great acne-fighting ingredient. It also regulates sebum production. Oily and acne-prone skin types can add the multi-tasker into their skin care routine to prevent breakouts and tame an oily T-zone.
- Fights free radicals
Packed with antioxidants, heartleaf protects skin from free radical damage caused by environmental stressors like UV rays and pollution to prevent premature aging.
Must-Try Heartleaf Skin Care
Incorporate heartleaf-rich formulas into your skin care routine for clear, glowy and calm skin!

Cleanser: Abib − Acne Foam Cleanser Heartleaf Foam
This pH-balanced foam cleanser is great choice for those who regularly deal with clogged pores and excess oil production. It’s formulated with BHA to rid skin and pores of dirt, impurities and dead skin cells. Heartleaf and centella extracts offer soothing and hydrating properties to keep skin soft and supple post-cleanse. The hypoallergenic formula is suitable for all skin types.

Toner: Anua − Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
An all-time favorite at YesStyle, this soothing toner contains a high concentration of houttuynia cordata, panthenol and purslane extracts to calm skin irritation and replenish moisture levels. The mildly acidic formula helps regulate sebum production, making it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.

Serum: ma:nyo − Our Vegan Heartleaf 98 Cica Serum
Harnessing the many benefits of heartleaf extract, this lightweight serum tackles breakouts and irritation while controling excess sebum production for clear and healthy skin. Additional ingredients of birch juice, bamboo and cica extracts offer hydrating and soothing effects.

Moisturizer: Mary&May − Sensitive Soothing Gel Cream
This gel cream packed with houttuynia cordata and tea tree extracts reduces inflammation and redness while minimizing enlarged pores. It also contains six types of hyaluronic acid and panthenol to hydrate skin for a healthy glow. The EWG-certified and fragrance-free formula is suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Sheet Mask: Anua − Heartleaf 77% Soothing Sheet Mask
On days when your stressed skin needs extra TLC, reach for this sheet mask drenched in essence containing heartleaf, witch hazel and cica extracts for soothing, antibacterial and antioxidant benefits. It’s enriched with hyaluronic acid, squalane and ceramide NP to moisturize skin and strengthen its barrier. Made of vegan microfiber material, the sheet mask feels gentle on skin and adheres seamlessly for optimum absorption of active ingredients.






