4 Ways Red Algae Benefits Your Skin

We know seaweed as the slippery ocean plant that brushes up against our toes, and as a key element in our sushi, salads, and soups. But did you know that seaweed is a versatile skin, hair, and makeup ingredient?

One of the most prominent types of seaweed is algae. Algae serves multiple purposes in skin care, especially in terms of gelling, thickening, and stabilizing formulas. While different kinds of ocean plants like brown algae and sea kelp are common in our products, the specific kind we’re focusing on here is Asparagopsis armata: red algae.

There are several types of seaweed and algae, and each kind has its own set of unique benefits. Let’s discover what red algae brings to the table!

Antioxidant defense
One of the most well-established facts about red algae is its protective properties. Red algae from the Asparagopsis genus have shown antifungal and antibacterial activity. Asparagopsis armata specifically contains molecules such as bromoform and dibromoacetic acid to stimulate that activity. Interesting tidbit: broform is actually what makes the algae smell so strong!

This property makes red algae an effective and natural alternative to chemical preservatives, and a powerful anti-acne ingredient.

Seaweed also boasts plenty of beneficial compounds like polysaccharides (complex carbs), proteins, lipids, pigments, and vitamins, among other substances. These nourishing ingredients are readily absorbed into the skin. Certain bioactives, like carrageenan, make it possible for red algae to protect skin from environmental stressors.

Sun protection
In terms of sun protection, red algae contains mycosporine-like amino acids, known as MAAs. These amino acids function as antioxidants, helping to absorb solar energy and protect organisms from UV rays. This suggests that red algae can be effective in cosmetics to support SPF functions.

We all know sun damage is one of the leading factors for visible aging – so using red algae in your skin routine is a wise move. By using products with red algae (alongside a trusty natural sunscreen), you’re helping to ensure that your skin looks fresh and youthful for as long as possible.

Hydration and plumping
Red algae is extremely useful for nourishing and hydrating dry skin. Algae’s pulpy texture means it stores plenty of water; when used in skincare, it can help draw water to the surface of your skin.

This plumping action makes it useful for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and can even enhance moisture to prevent overdry skin that can lead to acne. A great humectant will also help balance your skin, after using irritating or drying acid treatments.

You don’t have to limit this ingredient to your makeup or skin care; using red algae in a shower gel can help rehydrate and lock in moisture for dry or dehydrated skin. Try the best-selling Coconut or Vanilla Bean shower gels for a cleansing and moisturizing boost, courtesy of red algae.

Brightening
Red algae contains significant levels of vitamin C: an essential ingredient for revitalizing the complexion. This antioxidant is ideal not only for scavenging skin-damaging free radicals, but for brightening and balancing uneven skin tone.

Vitamin C inhibits tyrosinase, which is responsible for darkening certain patches of skin in response to sun damage. It fades dark spots without affecting the rest of your skin. So if you have hyperpigmentation from sun damage or acne scars, an algae-infused Dark Spot Remover just might be the oomph you need.

Red algae is fantastic for skin, but we also recommend seaweed-infused skin care in general. This is because many seaweeds contain antioxidant molecules that protect us from free radicals, found anywhere from the air we breathe to the foods we eat.

Seaweed extracts bring collagen-promoting elements like copper, zinc, and magnesium to our epidermis. Collagen increases two markers of youthful skin: density and elasticity.

Similar to seaweed’s filtering activities in the ocean, seaweed removes impurities from your skin, which is great for unclogging pores and cleansing your skin.

The flip side is that you have to source seaweed responsibly. Always make sure that you’re getting your seaweed from a clean source; ocean pollution is an issue that can affect the quality of natural ingredients, which is why we only use clean, farmed seaweed in our products. This ensures that you’re getting all the benefits of these water-loving plants while avoiding pollutants!

Ready to welcome the lush, nourishing power of red algae into your skin care routine? Check out these nutrient-rich gems your skin will love!

#1: 100% PURE™ Shower Gels
Our rich, creamy, natural body wash collection features mineral-rich red algae to lock in moisture for parched skin. Aloe, rose hydrosol, coconut oil, and green tea nourish skin in this gentle, sulfate-free formula. Plus, delectable scents like Vanilla Bean, French Lavender, and Coconut Lime transform your shower into a relaxing oasis.

#2: Eminence Organics Marine Flower Peptide Serum
This easily absorbed, plant peptide-powered gel serum works to diminish fine lines and wrinkles for visibly smoother, plumper skin. Nutrient-rich red algae contributes vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, while the Smart Collagen+ Complex helps to reveal significantly smoother skin. Great for all skin types and especially for aging skin.

#3: True Botanicals Repair Nightly Treatment
Red algae is featured in this treatment as haematococcus pluvialis (astaxanthin) with bioactive peptides to address skin aging. These proprietary bioactive peptides assist in revealing plumper, smoother, glowier skin. Ceramides and antioxidants help to protect and soften skin while omega fatty acids deeply moisturize as you sleep.

#4: Ustawi Red Algae Detoxifying Toner
Great for melanin-rich skin, this deeply hydrating toner helps to keep skin feeling soft. Super moisturizing red algae protects skin with a silky second-skin barrier while baobab fruit, organic myrtle leaf, and hesperidin detoxify and invigorate the skin. The fast-absorbing, non-sticky formula leaves skin feeling refreshed.

The ocean offers a wealth of well-kept skin-loving secrets that can benefit our beauty routine. As a hydrating and UV-fighting powerhouse, now we know that red algae can effectively plump up and protect our skin – and its benefits are at your fingertips.