Have you heard of algae benefits for the skin? Let’s take a look at the algae rainbow and see how this microscopic organism can boost your skin’s natural health.
But first, what exactly do we mean by algae?
It is an incredibly useful and beneficial material, and because of its ability to contain high amounts of nutrients and moisture, it’s widely used in food and cosmetic production. Now, this nifty plant has become a secret weapon for skincare products that work hard to repair delicate and dry skin — but why does it work so well?
Algae, the term used to describe marine plants, are usually green or brown. That alone creates confusion because it can range in color from dark or bright green to light green, red, brown, pink, purple, and even white.
Most algae come from one of three types of marine plants:
- Cyanobacteria (scientifically known as blue-green algae)
- Dunaliella salina
- Diatoms
Which type of algae is present can determine any health benefits you could receive based on its different colors.
The different colors of algae affect skin in subtle yet distinct ways. Plants that live in the ocean are colored by pigments that reflect the sun’s light.
For example, green plants like kelp contain chlorophyll, which is green because it reflects red and blue light. Manganese gives brown algae (also known as diatoms) their color. Many green algae contain phycoerythrin, which glows red under ultraviolet light.
What are the most common types of Algae?
1) Blue-Green Algae Benefits: Brightens and helps clarify the skin
Cold-pressed microalgae oil refers to the nutrient-rich oils of three types of impossibly green microalgae.
The first is spirulina, one of the most studied foods in history, more recently receiving attention for its high concentration of antioxidants which help ease oxidative stress. This blue-green microalgae is also abundant with vitamin B12, which helps promote healthy hair.
Green algae is a type of microscopic filamentous photosynthetic organism, one of three major groups of algae, and a member of the chlorophyte group. It has been noted that green colored algae contain the vitamins A, B1 , B2, B6, folic acid and vitamin C. It has also been documented that green algae is considered one of the best remedies for acne. Green algae cleanses your arteries, capillaries and veins; it is considered your blood’s best friend.
The second is chlorella, a single-celled green algae that’s been used as food for centuries.
Lastly is arame, a red sea vegetable that’s also packed with minerals like iron and magnesium.
Did you know?
Green algae is not actually an algae at all. A type of bacteria, it typically contains far more powerful antioxidants than any other plant. It is also one of the few plants that can be found in saltwater environments along with marine plants and sponges.
2) Red Algae Benefits
Red Algae is actually Chlorophyta. It is the marriage of the words chlorophyll, which is what allows plants to grow, and algae. Chlorophyll converts light energy into chemical energy which in turn, transfers to the growth of plants. In essence, this means that despite its dark red color, it does promote health in plants and animals alike when consumed, including humans.
Red algae has been used for thousands of years in Traditional Chinese Medicine for strengthening weak and aging skin. The red algae’s ability to promote collagen production, which helps it restore damaged areas of the skin.
Red algae is a supplier of natural antioxidant properties that works very well when used alone or with other products. According to Epione’s clinical trial, daily topical application of red algae has shown to help improve the skin’s texture, tone, firmness and reduce signs of aging. Other trials have shown it may also increase cell regeneration, promote collagen formation and decrease melanin production
3) Brown Algae Benefits
All skin types can benefit from the amazing brown algae extract. It can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and crow’s feet, along with being an excellent source of antioxidants that can improve overall skin health.
Beta-glucans are the active ingredients of brown algae that fulfill your skin needs. They give your skin a dewy sheen and make it exquisitely smooth.
The Beta-glucans get absorbed into the epidermal layer of your skin, where they get converted into compounds required to restore the skin cells. These compounds then break through the damaged skin cells and promote collagen formation, rejuvenating your skin.
Conclusion
Algae is one of the most potent natural ingredients that boosts the skin’s ability to retain moisture and protect against free radicals. It is one of the few ingredients that can increase moisture levels in the epidermis (human skin) over time, without impacting the ph level of your skin. This means it can be especially great for those with oily skin looking for skin care products that balance out their skin tone and feel smoother. Discover algae benefits for yourself.
