Seaweed and algae have long been used for their moisturising and healing properties, and now beauty companies are taking note, creating skincare products which harness the benefits from these age-old plants.
“There are over 20,000 species within the algae family and skincare uses a small percentage of these known for their protective power.” says Belinda Besant, national training manager from skincare brand La Prairie.
“Algae focuses on prevention through the qualities of antioxidants. It makes the skin more resilient to the ageing effects of free radical damage.”
Packed with an unusually high concentration of antioxidants, algae also contains a good dose of vitamins, minerals and amino acids which work to nourish and hydrate. The potent mix of ingredients reduces the signs of stress, lack of sleep and free radical damage from the sun by helping to soften pigmentation and fine lines.
Although most algae is harvested from the ocean, La Prairie has also found snow algae high in the Swiss Alps and used it for their latest product, Cellular Swiss Ice Crystal Dry Oil (a weightless oil which aims to prevent moisture loss). Like the algae itself which has survived in the harshest of circumstances, the formula works to make skin more resilient to physical and environmental stress.
Click through for the latest products containing this super powerful ingredient.
Kiehl’s Algae Masque, $60. Algae and herbal extracts such as green tea, camomile and calendula are mixed to balance and soothe the skin.
La Prairie Advanced Marine Biology Eye Gel, $200. Brown and green algae and caffeine tighten, boost collagen production and relieve water retention.
Kate Somerville Oil Free Moisturiser, $98. Perfect for those with oily skin, this will keep oil production in check, while red marine algae helps improve skin’s elasticity.
Lancôme Absolue Premium Cream, $245. Sea algae, soy, barley and wild yam boost hydration and make skin stronger and smoother.
La Prairie Cellular Swiss Ice Crystal Dry Oil, $442. Swiss snow algae is mixed with oils including sweet almond and sea buckthorn berry to renew moisture and fight the ageing effects of stress and the environment.
MAC Lightful Essence, $99. Using a trio of seaweeds (red, Japanese and hydrating seaweed extract), this serum hydrates and evens out skin tone.
Origins Starting Over Age-erasing moisturiser, $90. Mimosa, argan leaf and green algae combine to help rebuild collagen and improve texture and tone.
