Asian beauty has already introduced us to exotic ingredients like snail mucin and pig collagen in the past few years, but expect pearl to take center stage in 2018. "Creams containing crushed pearl can act as great exfoliants," says Bard. "Pearls also contain nacre and conchiolin, which not only provide iridescence but also lighten by inhibiting tyrosinase, one of the enzymes involved in pigment production in the skin."

Using pearl in skin care isn't entirely new, as pearl extracts and infusions have been included in La Prairie and Tatcha serums and essences for years. But delivering brighter and healthier-looking skin isn't all pearl can do. "Pearl is a prized beauty tonic in Asian cultures due to the amino acids that are thought to be reparative, helping in tissue growth, wrinkle reduction, tightening, healing blemishes and discoloration," says Klein.

Try Sephora Collection Sleeping Mask - Pearl, $4, to brighten your skin while you snooze.

You may have already heard of marula oil but expect this ultra-hydrating ingredient to be added to more products this year. "Marula oil hit big in 2017 and it looks like it will continue in 2018 due to its potent formula rich in fatty acids like omega 9-oleic and omega 6-linoleic," Klein says. "Marula oil helps hydrate, reduce redness, improve skin elasticity and reduce transepidermal water loss that leads to soft and smoother skin."

Try Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil, $72, to drench skin and split ends in hydrating moisture.

Originating from Africa, Kigelia trees (also known as sausage trees) are found in the Serengeti region, giving this beauty ingredient some exotic appeal. "African healers use kigelia for a variety of skin conditions and the ingredient is said to boast powerful anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties," Klein says.

Kigelia can be used as an alternative to harsh benzoyl peroxides and retinoids, says Dr. Elizabeth Trattner. The ingredient is great for those with acne, as it's rich in flavonoids and phenolic acid, which have both antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

High-end skin care brands like Lancer Skincare The Method: Body Nourish, $65, already use kigelia in their product formulas to beat discoloration and uneven skin tone. However, expect other skin care brands to catch on to the Kigelia trend as a gentle, yet effective, approach to acne.

Although saffron may bring Indian takeout to mind, experts like Klein say we'll see more of this multitasking ingredient in 2018, since the spice is rich in B vitamins and beneficial minerals, including folic acid. "Saffron spice is said to lighten, brighten, soothe, moisturize and decrease wrinkles, as well as combat acne," she says.

Saffron usually falls in the DIY beauty category but expect the ingredient to get a more commercial cosign this year, thanks to Saffron Secret, a new product line chosen as a trendsetter brand at COSMOPROF, geared around the ingredient.

Try Saffron Secret Saffron Post-Treatment Shampoo, $39.99, to keep your locks straight and smooth.