Why Algae Became The Most Incredible Skincare Ingredient
All the buzz behind Algae as the sensation for skincare, after some studies from the University of Ohio, who dissected all the attributes of Algae. They found out that is simply loaded with everything the skin needs. Besides loaded with essential vitamins for skin cell turnover, (Vitamin-A) Synthesis of Collagen (Vitamin-C) and And Protection against cell oxidation from UV rays (Vitamin-E), Algae is definitely a powerhouse full of antioxidants.
Translating into simple language. Using Algae in your skincare means nourishing your skin and protecting it from free radicals, which cause aging.
If we look into history, we found out that algae have been used for centuries, mainly to cure skin infection, wounds when men use to go hunt to bring food to the tribes and
There are different types of algae, the microalgae, found in freshwater, invisible to the naked eye. And the Macro ones which we can see floating in the ocean. More recently, after the studies, there are farms in strategic parts of the world to produce algae in large scales, such as Antartica, Hawaii, and some islands in Japan.
Are Algae and Marine Extracts The Same Thing?
Yes, they are, and what usually may cause some misunderstanding is seaweed a more generic word to express every plant that we find on the sea.
What do Algae do to the skin?
The number one benefit of algae to the skin, if asked to any skin expert is the immediate capability to protect against free-radicals, hydrate, soften while detoxifying the skin from impurities.
As a matter of reinforcement, the top 3 factors of aging are: exposure to sunlight (UV Rays), Pollution and Stress.
We learned how to fight against stress in a natural way here and now let’s take a look at the other factors addressed by using algae in skincare products. It is a fascinating list of benefits which also includes:
- Synthesize Collagen in the deeper levels of the skin
- Prevent skin cancer
- Natural anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties.
Types of Algae and Benefits for the Skin
Red Marine Algae Benefits for Skin
What distinguishes the exotic red color is the presence of pigments (phycocyanin and phycoerythrin) in this particular algae. Good for the skin as it is a potent UV filter. The algae receive so much sunlight that turned the Red Algae into a resilient type of algae, importantly used for the skincare industry as a shield against the harmful UV Rays.
Combined with the anti-oxidant effect of marine extracts, the Red Algae is known to have a robust anti-viral compound, called carrageenans a natural component resistant to viruses and bacterias that can cause damage to the skin cells.
Brown Marine Algae Benefits for the Skin
Best Sources of Vitamin-C and Vitamin-E. Essential ingredients for collagen production and fighter against free radicals. It’s not rare to see brown algae extract in serums and moisturizers, claiming to quick increase elasticity of the skin.
Benefits of Blue-Green Algae for The Skin
The most popular name for the Blue-Green Algae is Spirulina. One incredible source of vegetal protein consumed by the vegan community. Rich in Vitamin B, Calcium and significant presence of a large chain of amino acids, promote anti-aging effects when applied directly to the skin.
From all the algae, it is the one with more presence of chlorophyll, which is fantastic for detoxifying the cells. This detox process facilitates the skin to absorb other ingredients in a skincare routine.
Blue-green algae or spirulina is largely used in capsules, so it can be consumed orally, bringing other detox benefits to the body.
At this point, I guess you would like to take advantage of the benefits of algae to try an outstanding all Natural Green Detoxifying Mask, which can be used in two steps:
For the Natural Green Detoxifying Mask, you will need:
- 1+1/2 Teaspoon of spirulina power, which can be purchased on natural stores
- Half of an avocado
- 1 Tablespoon of brown sugar
- 2 Table Spoons of Lemon Juice
- Smash and mix all the ingredients in a bowl.
- With the point of your fingers, with a little of the green mix, start exfoliating the skin
- Rinse
- Just after rinsing, use the rest of the green mix, to perform a mask in the face and after completely spread in the face, let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Never under any circumstance, perform this mask under the sun. Lemon is harmful when in touch with the skin and exposed to sunlight.
After 15-20 minutes, rinse again and moisturize, preferably with marine extract cream to leverage the benefits.
Other Healthy Benefits From Consuming Algae On a Daily Basis
The good thing about Algae is that as well as other natural products, which contain vitamins and minerals. Algae show to be a complete and essential ingredient to have regularly in our diet. Humans can safely consume it as a source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and as a non-animal protein source.
In the Japanese culinary it is used on sushi, and other healthy dishes, since the begining of their civilization (centuries). Not a surprise though when we check the list of population who lives the longest and Japan is on the top of the list.
There’s not Only Good News About Algae
Unfortunately it’s not all about good news on Algae. Many times we see on TV News that Algal Blooms took over the country, causing damage to human and animal health.
If you are in an aquatic area, and you see vivid greenish water and smells terrible. Usually, this is signs to be aware as it could be very toxic to pets and for us.
It is a sign that human pollution is around and on slow-moving water combined with sunlight creates the “perfect” environment for the harmful algal blooms.
On the other hand, we have plenty of good healthy reasons to be hooked with the benefits of Algae in our life now, so hope you enjoy the perks of introducing this natural beauty in your daily basis.
