Red algae as a skin care ingredient
If you have been following me and my blog posts over the years, you know how much I love skincare and how much I have grown to love and review healthy skincare. What we put on our skin affects our health — hormones, toxicity, skin disorders, and much more. I have found that I am enjoying a lot of amazing skincare with some great ingredients and Red Algae is one. Let me break it down to you the greatness of this oceanic plant.
Algae has been used in skin care for thousands of years. It’s been dubbed a “miracle ingredient” and the “ocean’s most potent secret,” and there are even entire skin care lines and brands dedicated to using algae and other marine extracts (you’ve heard about Sanseti, right?). Well, I will be reviewing Sanseti. Unfortunately, other brands like La Mer have so many chemicals along with its great ingredients that it really has no benefits to speak of. This is my opinion on my use of this cream and my research on its ingredients. As I said, read the labels. Learn what’s good and bad for your skin.
There are two primary types of algae: macro and micro. Macro is a large-scale type that’s visible to the naked eye. It’s the stuff you see floating in the ocean. Think of first when someone says the word “algae.” This includes seaweed, kelp, and laminaria (the brownish-red seaweed that’s typically found in Japan). Microalgae, as you probably guessed, is super tiny. In fact, it’s a “single-cell” algae, and you can’t see it without a microscope. This type is often found in freshwater and marine systems in both water and sediment.
Algae’s Skin Care Benefits
Micro and macro algae are both found in skincare products and boast numerous benefits. Most notable, perhaps, is its ability to instantly hydrate and condition the skin. Upon using the products containing this ingredient, you’ll notice a more supple, moisturized complexion that’s soft to the touch.
Algae is also an antioxidant, meaning it protects your skin from free radicals that cause premature aging. In that sense, it’s an excellent ingredient for those who are worried about aging skin which is, well, most of us! Finally, it is high in essential amino acids, proteins, and a variety of vitamins—including vitamins A, B, C, and E. Talk about a loaded, super ingredient!
Skin types that benefit most from algae-infused products are dry skin, sensitive skin, and those who want to combat and prevent signs of aging.
Now let me name some amazing skincare lines that have this beautiful ingredient. And I do know that they all are amazing for you and your skin health.
Look for my review and blog post on Sanseti soon!! I will pick my favorite product from the line next week and post about it on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook!!
~Tiffany♥