This Is What Algae Is Doing in Your Beauty Products
Algae is everywhere—it helps wrap up your sushi in the form of seaweed, it's used as a thickener and preservative in many food products you consume (milks and yogurts, for example), and it's also as a key ingredient in your skincare—but why?
For starters, algae is the oldest life form on earth with blue green algae dating back over one billion years. This simple organism is at the base of the food chain, and relies on the sun for its nutrients, making it at the very bottom or beginning of the food cycle.
There are more than 20,000 types of algae, but scientists believe there are tens of thousands of species we still haven't discovered. They might be simple, but their nutrient profile is anything but—which is why they're a favorite in skincare products.
Algae is an amazing antioxidant that helps ward off free radicals that harm the skin, like pollution. There are four main categories of algae: brown, blue green, red and yellow. While each type has different attributes, they're all rich in trace minerals and phytonutrients, along with varying vitamins like A and B complex.
In regards to your skin, algae has been touted for plumping up the skin, naturally stimulating collagen production and for it's anti-aging qualities, making it a no brainer in creams, serums and face oils. Ahead, we're sharing a few of our favorite products featuring algae.
OSEA Undaria Algae Body Oil: $48
Not only does this body oil smell divine, it has the perfect texture to smooth over your body without feeling sticky or super oily. It delivers a rush of antioxidant and mineral moisture to the skin, leaving you feeling super hydrated from neck to toe.
(via OSEA)
MARA Universal Face Oil: $40
Filled with the brand's proprietary algae blend, including two types of brown algae and plankton, this super hydrating face oil plumps up the skin, locks in moisture and gives you a gorgeous glow.
(via MARA)
Biossance Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream: $54
This super rich night cream is so luxe for coating around your eyes, like a moisture bomb for that sensitive skin area. It's never too early to start with eye cream, promise.
(via Biossance)
The Seaweed Bath Co. Marine Algae Overnight Mask: $13
This overnight mask is super hydrating, like a big glass of water for your face. It's the perfect topper so you can wake up with plump, fresh skin.
(via The Seaweed Bath Co.)
While we're on the topic of moisturizer, HERE's what you should be using for your skin type.