Last Updated on April 28, 2021 by ImmuneshieldAdmin
Seaweeds are often found on your soups, salads, and even sushi. But have you ever wondered that this slippery ocean plant is also beneficial to your skin and primarily used as a natural ingredient in makeup, hair, and skin products? Algae is the most common form of seaweed. This ingredient is essential, especially in building beauty products because of the thickening, stabilizing, and gelling effect. Even though other varieties of ocean plants are found in several products, including sea kelp and brown algae, this post will focus on red algae (Asoaragopsis armata).
The Big Question:
How does a common ocean plant make your skin look youthful and glowing?
There are various forms of algae and seaweed, and each of them offers a unique set of benefits. The following are the most notable advantages offered by red algae. Read on to know further.
Sun Protection
Red algae are rich in MAAs (Mycosporine-like amino acids), a beneficial compound in terms of sun protection. The MAA works as an antioxidant, which prevents the body from absorbing the sun’s UV rays. Hence, red algae is an effective ingredient used in manufacturing products that offer SPF functions.
There is no doubt that UV rays contribute to visible signs of aging. That’s why purchasing products that contain red algae is a wise decision. Besides using an umbrella, wearing sunscreen with red algae keeps your skin protected against UV rays while giving you a more youthful and fresher look.
Did You Know?
Approximately 6000 species of algae grow over other ocean
Antioxidant Defense
Red algae and any form of ocean plant in the Asparagopsis family are known for their antibacterial and antifungal activity. Specifically, Asparagopsis armata is high in dibromoacetic acid and bromoform that help in stimulating the mentioned activities. Fact: bromoform is the number one factor that contributes to the strong smell of algae.
The antioxidant property makes it the natural and most effective anti-acne ingredient. Besides its protective properties, seaweed is also rich in vitamins, pigments, lipids, proteins, polysaccharides, and other beneficial substances. What’s more? It also contains carrageenan, protecting the skin against environmental stressors.
Brightening
Aside from the compounds mentioned above, it is also rich in vitamin C, an essential substance for brightening your face’s complexion. It works in balancing your uneven skin tone while protecting your face against free radicals.
Vitamin C in red algae effectively protects your skin against tyrosinase, a compound that darkens your skin and causes uneven skin tone. Another benefit of vitamin C is that it removes dark skin patches without exhibiting adverse effects. So, if you have hyperpigmentation because of acne scars or sun damage, integrating red algae beauty products into your skincare is recommended.
Hydration
Besides brightening, red algae are also helpful in keeping your skin hydrated. Considering the pulpy texture of algae, it shows that it can store lots of liquid. When integrated into skincare products, it helps your skin absorb more water, making it look young, glowing, and hydrated.
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