(^28) • MARCH 2020
NATURAL BEAUTY * pure ingredients for skin & body
A Sea Change
The remedy for dry, sensitive, and aging skin just might
be found floating in the ocean
BY SHERRIE STRAUSFOGEL
Algae—aquatic plants that can be
as big as sea kelp or tiny enough to
be microscopic—are awash with
therapeutic benefits for your skin.
Only a few algae species have been
studied for use in cosmetic products,
including the three major classes of
seaweed, which are green, red, and
brown kelp, as well as microalgae
such as spirulina and chlorella.
The studies have shown that algae
hydrate, soften, and detoxify the skin
while replenishing essential vitamins
and minerals. Algae also have significant
antioxidant power to protect skin from
free radicals that cause premature
aging, and are being studied for possible
UV protection.
Astaxanthin, found in algae,
is one of nature’s most potent anti-
oxidants—proven more powerful
than vitamin C, CoQ10, green tea, and
alpha lipoic acid. It can neutralize
multiple free radicals at once, protecting
your skin and body from oxidation,
damage, and inflammation. Classified
as a carotenoid because of its red-orange
color, it was originally isolated from a
lobster. It is also found in microalgae,
wild salmon, red trout, krill, shrimp,
and crabs.
Clinical studies have shown that
topical astaxanthin can increase skin
moisture and elasticity, as well as
promote smoothness and decrease
fine lines and wrinkles. In addition,
it has UV-blocking properties that
help the skin protect itself against
sun-related damage. It can even
lighten age spots by preventing
too much melanin.
Ph
oto
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