5 Algae Extract Beauty Products
The remedy for dry, sensitive, and aging skin just might be found floating in the ocean.
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Algae—aquatic plants that can be as big as sea kelp or tiny enough to be microscopic—are awash with therapeutic benefits for your skin. Only a few algae species have been studied for use in cosmetic products, including the three major classes of seaweed, which are green, red, and brown kelp, as well as microalgae such as spirulina and chlorella.
The studies have shown that algae hydrate, soften, and detoxify the skin while replenishing essential vitamins and minerals. Algae also have significant antioxidant power to protect skin from free radicals that cause premature aging, and are being studied for possible UV protection.
Astaxanthin, found in algae, is one of nature’s most potent antioxidants—proven more powerful than vitamin C, CoQ10, green tea, and alpha lipoic acid. It can neutralize multiple free radicals at once, protecting your skin and body from oxidation, damage, and inflammation. Classified as a carotenoid because of its red-orangecolor, it was originally isolated from a lobster. It is also found in microalgae, wild salmon, red trout, krill, shrimp, and crabs.
Clinical studies have shown that topical astaxanthin can increase skin moisture and elasticity, as well as promote smoothness and decrease fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, it has UV-blocking properties that help the skin protect itself against sun-related damage. It can even lighten age spots by preventing too much melanin.
1. Fortify your lashes as you add volume
With Pacifica Stellar Gaze Length & Strength Mineral Mascara. Green algae extract and brown kelp moisturize and protect lashes. Coconut oil, vitamins B and E, jojoba oil, chamomile, and rice protein nourish lashes. The mascara is formulated without carmine, mineral oil, or parabens. The vegan brush applies easily and coats every lash.
2. Quench dehydrated skin
With Annemarie Börlind Natural Beauty Aqua Nature System Hydro Revitalizing Rehydration Serum. Green algae extract, aloe vera, and botanical hyaluronic acid moisturize and refresh parched skin. Carrageenan from red algae, used as a natural gelling agent, also hydrates the skin.
3. Get glowing skin
With Alba Botanica Even Advanced Sea Algae Enzyme Scrub. This gentle exfoliator polishes dull, dry skin to create a smooth, radiant complexion. A marine complex, infused with sea enzymes including algae, fortifies skin and evens skin tone.
4. Diminish discoloration and uneven skin tone
With InstaNatural Skin Brightening Serum. Astaxanthin, vitamin C, niacinamide, licorice root extract, and alpha-arbutin target hyperpigmentation and reduce the appearance of dark spots. Astaxanthin, wakame seaweed, and hyaluronic acid hydrate skin and plump lines and wrinkles.
5. Smooth and hydrate your skin while you sleep
With The Seaweed Bath Co. Restoring Marine Algae Overnight Mask. Snow algae powder, made from algae found on glaciers and snow, rejuvenates and moisturizes. AlgaDerm Complex, a proprietary, clinically proven formula with vitamin B and three varieties of seaweed, detoxifies, restores, and protects, while spirulina helps to rebalance and refresh skin. This seaweed-green mask dries clear on your skin with no messy residue.
