by Alexandra Nicole Nuralam
This Marine Ingredient Can Really Make A Difference In Your Skin
It’s wrapped around sushi rolls, used in salads or eaten as chips. But seaweed is more than just a nutrient-rich superfood. It’s a wildly beneficial ingredient for your skin and a superstar of the conscious skincare world. Packed with minerals, antioxidants, amino acids and omega-3 fats, it’s excellent at reducing inflammation and soothing the skin and is deeply hydrating, smoothing and plumping.
The basics
Marine algae is a member of the Protista kingdom, so while seaweed has many plant-like attributes (meaning it uses chlorophyll for photosynthesis), it is not technically a plant. Seaweed is found in saltwater and is essential to the dynamic marine ecosystem, providing food and shelter for all kinds of sea creatures. It’s typically classified as one of three groups: brown, red or green algae.
Meet the seaweeds
Seaweed possesses a ton of skincare benefits and healing properties, addressing everything from excess oil production to fine lines and wrinkles. Those with dry, sensitive, and acne-prone skin as well as those looking for anti-ageing properties will benefit from seaweed. But each seaweed has unique benefits, so keep scrolling to find the best fit for you!
Undaria Seaweed
Undaria pinnatifida is a brown algae, rich in nutrients like sodium, iron, potassium, calcium and vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, and B12. Undaria, when combined with botanical oils helps to nourish the moisture balance of the skin. Undaria also contains Fucoidan, a genius hydrating compound.
This body oil combines Undaria seaweed with eleven botanical oils, including Acai and Passion Fruit for serious hydration and baby-soft skin that glows. Also nice: The subtle Cyprus scent makes for a soothing sensory experience.
Gigartina Seaweed
Gigartina skottsbergii is a red marine algae with hydrophilic (which means moisture attracting) properties. Gigartina is also abundant in sulfated polysaccharides, which act as antioxidants—yes, please!
The ultra-rich Advanced Protection Cream is formulated with Gigartina seaweed to plump the look of fine lines and wrinkles while creating a cushiony barrier for dry skin. This mega-moisturising cream also contains squalane to help lock in essential hydration.
Macrocystis Seaweed
Macrocystis pyrifera, also known as Giant Bladder Kelp, is the largest of all marine algae. This hefty seaweed contains high levels of iodine, omega-3 and omega 6 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.
The fast-absorbing, clarifying moisturiser helps to promote an even skin tone. The secret lies in the synergy between three seaweeds, including Macrocystis and Tea Tree, Juniper and Thyme essential oils. Bonus: Blemish Balm is also infused with featherweight Jojoba oil to balance without drying.
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