Between school drop-offs, errands, and trying to fit in a meal that isn’t just leftover chicken nuggets, finding time for self-care as a mom can feel like an impossible dream. But beauty doesn’t have to mean hours in front of the mirror or blowing half your budget on the latest products. Around the world, women have been using ingenious beauty hacks for centuries, and many of them are uniquely tied to their cultural history and traditions. These practices are effective, and many are quick, simple, and perfect for squeezing into even the tightest schedule. These niche beauty hacks from different cultures can help busy moms feel and look their best—without battling the clock.

Korean Bubble Masks for Instant Deep Cleaning

Korea continues to lead the way when it comes to groundbreaking skincare innovations, and bubble masks might just be one of their most unique products yet. Unlike traditional sheet masks, bubble masks react to the air, creating a fizzing foam as you wear them. It’s like a mini science experiment happening on your face!

The bubbling action helps clean out your pores while delivering oxygen to the skin, leaving you with a refreshed, glowing complexion in under 10 minutes. Perfect for multitasking moms, you can slap on a bubble mask while you fold laundry or prep dinner. And the best part? The bubbly foam feels like an oddly satisfying little massage.

Ethiopian Coffee Face Scrubs

Coffee isn’t just for fueling your mornings—it’s a vital part of beauty rituals in Ethiopia. Women there have long used coffee grounds as a natural exfoliant, thanks to its skin-tightening caffeine and the gentle scrubbing texture.

To create your own Ethiopian-inspired coffee scrub, mix used coffee grounds with a bit of honey for hydration or yogurt for extra exfoliation. Massage it into your skin for a few minutes, then rinse. You’ll instantly notice smoother, brighter skin—while breathing in that wonderful coffee aroma. Bonus? It’s eco-friendly since you’re upcycling your coffee waste!

Japanese Azuki Bean Face Masks

Japanese women are renowned for their porcelain-like skin, and one of their best-kept secrets is the humble azuki bean. This tiny red bean has been used in Japanese beauty routines for centuries as an exfoliant and skin soother.

To recreate this traditional treatment, grind dried azuki beans into a fine powder (you can find them at Asian grocery stores), then mix it with a bit of water or rice milk to form a paste. Use it as a face mask for 10-15 minutes, then gently scrub as you rinse it off. It’s perfect for buffing away dead skin without being harsh—ideal for moms sensitive to chemical exfoliants.

Balinese Boreh for Post-Workout (or Post-Chores!) Detox

Boreh is a traditional Balinese scrub and body mask that women use for relaxation and rejuvenation. Originally, it was a remedy for sore muscles, which makes it perfect for busy moms after a day of heavy lifting (laundry baskets count).

A typical boreh paste consists of warming spices like turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and rice powder mixed with water or coconut oil. Apply it to your body and leave it on for 15 minutes before rinsing in the shower. The spices warm your skin, stimulate circulation, and leave you feeling like you’ve been to a fancy spa—all from the comfort of home.

Turkish Hammam-Inspired Kese Mitt Exfoliation

The Turkish hammam, or bathhouse, is a centuries-old tradition of cleansing and pampering. But you don’t need to book a flight to Istanbul to enjoy its benefits. At the heart of the hammam experience is the kese mitt, an exfoliating glove used to scrub away dead skin and leave your body silky smooth.

Next time you hop into the shower, bring along a kese glove (easily found online). Wet your skin, skip the soap for this step, and use firm, circular motions to exfoliate. Pair this step with the natural glow-enhancing effect of olive oil soap, a Turkish bath staple, for the full experience. Say goodbye to dry patches and hello to radiant skin.

Peruvian Potato Eye Compresses

Potatoes aren’t just for fries—they’re a little-known Peruvian beauty secret for reducing puffiness and brightening under-eye skin. Rich in enzymes like catecholase, potatoes have natural lightening and anti-inflammatory properties.

To use, simply slice a raw potato and chill it in the fridge. When you’re ready for a quick pick-me-up, lie down, place a slice under each eye for about 10 minutes, and relax. It’s a cooling, natural fix for tired mom eyes, especially after one of those nights where sleep didn’t quite happen.

Jamaican Castor Oil for On-the-Go Hair Nourishment

Jamaican black castor oil has been used for generations to encourage hair growth and strengthen strands. This thick, nutrient-packed oil is a busy mom’s dream because it works quickly and keeps hair manageable.

Warm up a tiny amount of castor oil in your hands (you don’t need much), then smooth it onto the ends of your hair to prevent split ends and add shine. If you have a bit more time, massage it into your scalp for deep conditioning. Many moms swear by it as their secret weapon for keeping postpartum hair loss in check!

New Zealand Manuka Honey for All-Over Glow

New Zealand’s manuka honey is a powerhouse ingredient packed with antibacterial and hydrating properties. Busy moms love it because it doubles as a face mask and a spot treatment.

Spread a thin layer of manuka honey onto your clean face as a quick mask. Leave it on for 10 minutes while you answer emails or help with homework, then rinse with warm water. It leaves your skin feeling soft, hydrated, and glowing, making it a lifesaver for dry or acne-prone skin.