Korean beauty, or K-beauty, has taken the skincare world by storm, thanks to its innovative formulas and emphasis on achieving natural, glowing skin. Known for their meticulous multi-step routines and cutting-edge ingredients, K-beauty products focus on prevention and long-term skin health. Innisfree, a leading name in the Korean beauty market, has been a pioneer in bringing nature-derived, eco-friendly skincare solutions to the forefront. Innisfree announces an exciting new chapter with the appointment of Indian actress Wamiqa Gabbi as their brand ambassador. Known for her versatility and radiant beauty, Wamiqa embodies the brand’s ethos of natural elegance and mindful living. We sat down with Wamiqa to discuss her new role, her personal skincare secrets, and her approach to wellness.
ELLE: How do you maintain a balanced lifestyle amidst your busy schedule?
Wamiqa Gabbi: Lifestyle isn’t a mere choice but a commitment to making deliberate choices. It’s not always easy, but I prioritise healthy habits wherever possible. Whether it’s opting for a plant-rich diet, committing to daily workouts, or carving out time for self-care, these choices are essential. In my skincare routine, I focus on minimal yet natural practices, ensuring my skin
stays healthy and radiant despite the demands of my schedule.
ELLE: What is the one skincare product you absolutely cannot live without and why?
Wamiqa Gabbi: Is it cheating to say I have two? Because I can’t choose between Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask and Innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Serum. The clay mask is a miracle worker. It deeply cleanses my pores, reduces sebum production, and gives such a cooling and refreshed after-effect. I use it once or twice a week depending on how my skin needs it. I also want to give a shout-out to the Innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Serum, which I use every day, morning and night. This serum is like a hydrating drink to my skin. It is so nourishing and leaves my skin plump. I just can’t imagine my skincare routine without these.
ELLE: What excites you the most about being the brand ambassador for Innisfree?
Wamiqa Gabbi: I have been using Innisfree for a while now, and I genuinely love their products. The brand’s philosophy aligns with my personal ethos: I am vegan, and so is Innisfree. It is an environmentally friendly brand with many products featuring reusable packaging, and it was recently certified by PETA for being free of animal cruelty. These aspects, along with the exceptional quality of their products, truly inspire me. I’m proud to partner with such a brand.
ELLE: Can you share a beauty hack that you swear by?
Wamiqa Gabbi: One beauty hack I absolutely swear by is the ice water facial dip. It’s super simple but incredibly effective!
ELLE: How has partnering with Innisfree influenced your approach to skincare?
Wamiqa Gabbi: I used to experiment with every product and trend in the market, but the sheer number of ingredients and treatments available can be overwhelming. Innisfree has helped me understand the value of natural ingredients and a consistent skincare routine. Their products have proved that effective skincare doesn’t necessarily require harsh chemicals disguised as active ingredients. Now, I turn to these natural ingredients and learn how to listen to my skin and give it what it really needs, instead of following every new trend.
ELLE: What role does mental health play in your overall beauty and wellness regimen?
Wamiqa Gabbi: I believe that inner beauty shines through in how we care for ourselves. When I feel stressed or anxious, it reflects on my skin—breakouts, dullness, and fatigue, you name it! On the flip side, when I’m in a positive mindset, my skin glows. That’s why I prioritise self-care and carve out time for activities that bring me joy and peace. For me, self-care means indulging in a relaxing bath with soothing music and moments of quiet meditation or spending time with my pets at home. Sometimes, I dance freely when no one’s watching, knowing that caring for my mental health is my own responsibility and will take intentional effort, with a busy schedule like mine.
ELLE: Can you share some wellness practices that help you stay grounded and focused?
Wamiqa Gabbi: Does hugging your pet dog for emotional support count? Next, I’m a big fan of working out! It is something I do every single day of my life! It helps me stay grounded and focused by channelling my energy and clearing my mind before starting the day. Another practice I love is painting. It’s a creative outlet that relaxes me and allows me to express myself – I don’t practice this on a regular basis but whenever I find time I hop onto a canvas with my colours. Taking some me-time to relax and enjoy my own company is something I always look forward to.
ELLE: What’s your go-to quick fix for puffy eyes after a long shoot?
Wamiqa Gabbi: Oh yes, I have been using Innisfree’s Green Tea Hyaluronic Glow Ice & Face Ball. It has a roll-on tip applicator, so you can massage it nicely around your eyes. The serum in it has a cooling effect and it hydrates your under-eye area so well. It penetrates deeply into the skin and gets rid of tired and puffy eyes. It has been a game-changer for a night owl like me.
ELLE: Do you have any tips for maintaining glowing skin while travelling?
Wamiqa Gabbi: It is quite a responsibility to maintain a skincare routine while travelling. As I’m trying to stick to a routine and be conscious about taking care of my skin, I carry Innisfree’s travel-sized kit with me everywhere I go. It can fit into my shoot bag and the handbag I carry on my long flights, so I have my essentials with me anytime I want. Innisfree Vitamin C Serum is the one product that I always carry with me.
ELLE: Are there any age-old beauty remedies that are still a part of your routine?
Wamiqa Gabbi: I still incorporate several age-old beauty remedies into my routine. One of my favourites is using rose water as a toner. Its natural soothing and hydrating properties have been cherished for centuries. I also love using coconut oil for my hair and skin, it’s a fantastic natural moisturiser and helps keep my hair shiny and healthy. Another timeless remedy I swear by is using a turmeric and honey mask for a natural glow and to combat any blemishes. These simple, natural remedies have stood the test of time for a reason and continue to be a vital part of my beauty regimen.
ELLE: If you could create a new beauty product (maybe with Innisfree), what would it be and why?
Wamiqa Gabbi: If I were to create a new beauty product with Innisfree, it would be Innisfree Green Defense Multifunctional Anti-Pollution Serum or an Innisfree Green Defense Barrier Boosting Face and Body SPF Mist, specifically for urban lifestyles. This product would combine potent natural ingredients like Green tea extract, Vitamin C, ceramide, and Hyaluronic acid which are rich in antioxidants, and will strengthen the moisture barrier with innovative technology to protect against pollution and environmental stressors and blue rays. This can be on the go and easy to reapply anytime, anywhere! The mist would have a lightweight, fast- absorbing formula to deliver deep hydration and a radiant glow, while also creating a protective barrier against pollutants and blue light from screens.
