Algae cosmetics aren’t exactly a new thing, after all, they’ve been around since the 1960s, but people are only recently starting to understand the amazing benefits behind them. They contain plenty of nutrients and minerals such as omega 3 fatty acids, amino acids, magnesium, calcium and various vitamins. Accordingly, it stands to reason that algae extracts have excellent benefits for your skin. Once you start using algae cosmetics for your skincare routine, it will be hard to switch to anything else! That’s why we listed the 5 most prodigious and undoubtable benefits of algae cosmetics for you.
With over 70,000 species of algae out there, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing the type of algae cosmetics that best suit your skincare needs. Even though, for now, there are only a few types of algae that have been properly studied for cosmetics use. These include brown, green and red macroalgae (ie. seaweed) and microalgae such as spirulina and chlorella. Let’s take a look at the various benefits these algae have so you can help keep your skin smooth, supple and healthy.
Benefit #1 of algae cosmetics: Its moisturizing abilities
A 2013 study published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules discovered that the extract of S. japonica, a type of brown algae, had amazing water absorption and retention abilities that were three times better than hyaluronic acid, which is currently one of the best compounds to effectively keep your skin moisturized and hydrated. When using products containing this extract, you’ll notice your skin becoming smoother and softer after just one use. The best part – this extract will slowly release moisture to your skin cells throughout the day to ensure that your skin stays well-hydrated. Our favourite picks for moisturizers that contain this phenomenal compound can be found here.
Another species of algae that has good hydrating abilities, as well as cleansing properties, is spirulina. Spirulina is a type of blue-green microalgae or cyanobacteria. However, this species works best on mature skin, so it is better to start using from 40 years old onwards. This is our favourite spirulina-based moisturizer as it is perfect for all skin types. Be it oily skin, dry skin, combination skin or even acne, this moisturizer will work well for you and keep your skin soft and hydrated all day long.
Alternatively, you can look for products that contain extracts of A. concinna. This type of red algae will give your skin a 128% moisture boost with just one application. We like this completely natural serum containing plenty of other organic extracts to make your skin smooth and beautiful. You can read more about the best skin moisturizing products in general here.
Benefit #2: Its ability to protect from the sun
To too much sunlight and UV rays can seriously damage your skin and cause it to age prematurely. Luckily, there are plenty of brown and red algae that have antioxidant properties. Those properties help protect your skin from sun damage such as wrinkles, dryness, sunburn (ie. inflammation) and even skin cancer. The main ones you should look out for when shopping for skincare products are extracts from F. vesiculosus, T. conoides and P. umbilicalis. Extracts from these three algae are the best at absorbing harmful UV rays to ensure your skin stays healthy even if you over sunbathe! You will find our favourite pick for algae-based sunscreen here. In addition, you may want to check out natural alternatives to sunscreen products.
Benefit #3: Managing hyperpigmentation
Do you have brown spots, discolouration or uneven skin tone? These are all reflective of hyperpigmentation. It seems like an unavoidable part of aging, but the good news is that there are certain types of red and brown algae that can help slow the process down and even prevent it altogether. Keep your eye out for extracts of L. japonica and U. pinnatifda, also known as Kombu and Wakame. They contain a compound called fucoxanthin which has anti-pigmentary abilities. Because this compound inhibits the enzyme that controls the chemical reactions behind hyperpigmentation, you can maintain a youthful skin. It will also improve the condition of your skin at all three layers. We personally love Dermalogica’s superfoliant, as it will help you cleanse your pores in addition to reducing hyperpigmentation. Use it daily and you’ll see the effects after just one month!
Benefit #4: It brightens skin
Dull skin makes a person look depressed and is difficult to combat, despite getting plenty of sleep and staying hydrated. Luckily, algae can help out here too! Microalgae such as chlorella contain phlorotannins which promote skin microcirculation, turning it brighter and more vibrant than ever before. This is because microcirculation is responsible for transporting water and minerals across the layers of your skin. Therefore, when stimulating this process, your skin will get all needed nutrients and will shine with youth and vitality. Chlorella is also loaded with plenty of its own nutrients such as vitamins, magnesium and zinc to help you obtain a glowing complexion. We recommend this brightening corrective concentrate which can be found here. You’ll notice positive, immediate effects after just one use.
Benefit #5: It’s all natural!
The best part about algae cosmetics is that they are totally natural, so you won’t have to put unnecessary chemicals into your body any longer. Plus, growing algae is very sustainable and environmentally-friendly as it can grow nearly anywhere. As a matter of fact, it is frequently grown on the sea or on land that would otherwise be useless. Also, it typically uses saline water not suitable for regular crops and it absorbs substantial amounts of CO2 while growing.
So, there you have it, algae cosmetics are undeniably good for you! They will help you maintain an even, glowing complexion while keeping your skin healthy and hydrated with a natural-based product. If you are interested in natural products in general, check our complete research on natural cosmetics vs conventional one.