Heartleaf, also known by its scientific name Houttuynia cordata, is a beloved herb in Korean skincare renowned for its gentle, calming effects. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, it is ideal for those dealing with sensitivity, redness, or breakouts. Whether your skin is irritated, reactive, or simply in need of soothing support, Heartleaf is a modern essential for restoring balance and clarity.
What is Heartleaf?
Heartleaf is a medicinal herb with heart-shaped leaves, traditionally used in East Asian herbal medicine to detoxify and calm the body. In skincare, the extract (commonly listed as Houttuynia cordata extract) is valued for its ability to reduce inflammation, purify pores, and support the skin barrier. It is a natural, non-irritating solution for managing redness and acne while supporting overall skin health.
What Does Heartleaf Do for the Skin?
Soothes redness and irritation
Rich in anti-inflammatory flavonoids, Heartleaf calms visible redness and discomfort.
Balances and purifies
Gently helps regulate excess sebum and keeps pores clear without stripping the skin.
Strengthens the skin barrier
Reinforces the skin’s protective layer, making it more resilient to environmental stressors.
Fights acne-causing bacteria
Has mild antimicrobial properties that help reduce breakouts and support clearer skin.
Hydrates and comforts sensitive skin
Delivers moisture without clogging pores or triggering sensitivity.
What Skin Types Benefit Most?
Heartleaf is especially suited for sensitive, acne-prone, oily, or inflamed skin. Its lightweight and soothing nature makes it compatible with nearly any routine, even for those who react easily to other actives.
Can You Use It With Other Ingredients?
Yes. Heartleaf pairs well with soothing, hydrating, and barrier-repairing ingredients like:
-
Centella Asiatica – for enhanced calming and repair
-
Panthenol – to support hydration and skin resilience
-
Niacinamide – balances oil while fading redness and dark spots
-
Hyaluronic Acid – maintains hydration without heaviness
-
Mugwort – for antioxidant-rich soothing care
Products at SILVER GLASS That Feature Heartleaf
Explore these products infused with Heartleaf to calm, balance, and protect your skin:
-
Abib – Heartleaf Essence Calming Pump (50ml)
A concentrated calming ampoule with 80% Heartleaf Extract to soothe and reset irritated, sensitive skin. Lightweight and fast-absorbing, it hydrates while visibly reducing redness and inflammation. -
DEWYTREE – Heartleaf 100 Serum (40ml)
A vegan-certified serum with 18% Jeju-grown Heartleaf Extract and Centella actives to calm, hydrate, and rebalance sensitive skin without heaviness. -
MARY & MAY – Houttuynia Cordata + Tea Tree Serum (30ml)
A vegan, non-irritating serum with 85% Heartleaf and 9.7% Tea Tree Extract to calm acne-prone skin, purify pores, and balance excess oil without residue.
How to Use Heartleaf in Your Routine
When: Use after cleansing, either as a toner, essence, ampoule, or mask.
How often: Daily use, both morning and night
Tip: Great for calming the skin after exfoliating acids or retinoids, or when skin is sensitised by weather, stress, or over-cleansing.
Key Takeaway
Heartleaf is a gentle yet effective botanical ingredient that soothes, purifies, and protects. Ideal for calming irritated or acne-prone skin, it has earned a strong following in Korean skincare for its versatility and non-irritating profile. If your skin needs a reset, Heartleaf is a safe and natural place to start.
