Pumpkin Tea Benefits: My Experience with Korean Wellness Trends
Pumpkin tea, often marketed as Luv Tea Pumpkin in the Korean skincare and wellness market, is a popular staple for those looking to manage morning puffiness. It typically retails for approximately ₩15,000 ($11.20) for a pack of 15 bags at Olive Young in Seoul. While it is not a direct substitute for topical k-beauty treatments, many users incorporate it into their morning routine to support hydration and reduce water retention, which can indirectly help maintain the appearance of glass skin.
Understanding the Role of Pumpkin Tea in Korean Beauty Routines
Pumpkin tea is primarily consumed in Korea for its perceived ability to assist with bloating and lymphatic circulation. In my experience living in Seoul, this tea is a common accessory to a balanced korean beauty routine, serving as an internal wellness boost alongside external korean cosmetics.
How It Affects Daily Hydration
This tea works by providing a caffeine-free alternative that encourages consistent fluid intake throughout the morning. By replacing sugary morning beverages with pumpkin tea, I found my skin looked less dull and my facial puffiness decreased by midday.
Comparison with Other Wellness Teas
When considering alternatives, Teazen Corn Silk Tea and various brands of fermented kombucha are also popular in korean skincare-focused diets. While pumpkin tea is favored for its mild, earthy flavor, corn silk tea is often chosen for its specific diuretic properties, costing roughly ₩8,000 ($6.00) for a similar quantity.
Practical Tips for Incorporating Wellness Tea
Integrating these products into your morning requires a simple, consistent approach. I have found the following steps help in maintaining a healthy internal balance that complements my topical korean skincare products:
- Steep the tea bag in 200ml of hot water for at least 3 minutes to ensure full flavor extraction.
- Drink the tea within 30 minutes of waking up to help kickstart your metabolism.
- Avoid adding sweeteners, as high sugar intake can counteract the anti-inflammatory benefits often associated with pumpkin extracts.
- Pair your tea consumption with a consistent facial massage using a cooling roller to maximize the effect on puffiness.
- Keep the remaining tea bags in a cool, dry place to maintain ingredient potency for the full 15-day cycle.
While the results of drinking pumpkin tea are subtle, they contribute to a well-rounded approach to beauty. It is important to remember that internal health is the foundation of the glass skin look that many seek, though it should always be supported by a solid topical regimen of cleansers, toners, and serums.

Sources
Mia Yoon
Seoul-based beauty editor covering Korean skincare for international readers. Tests 300+ products per year across Olive Young and Stylevana.
