“Seaweed” is the term used to describe plants and algae that grow in all bodies of water (oceans, rivers and lakes).
Seaweed is a powerful concentration of sea water, it contains many key ingredients beneficial for the body and the skin such as vitamin C, bioactive peptides, fatty acids, enzymes, potassium, iron, vitamin B12, choline. It is also rich in polysaccharides, being able to attract up to 1,000 times their wight in water molecules. This ability helps the skin retain water, thus keeping it moisturised.
There are different types of seaweed beneficial for skin such as kelp, giant kelp, red algae, brown seaweed, sea spaghetti, and carrageenan.
Either you use seaweed as a mask, toner, serum, or moisturising cream you can benefit from its benefits.
1) Hydrating properties
Seaweed is a powerful humectant that draws moisture to skin cells. It provides long-lasting hydration, with a soft moisturised skin.
-fatty acids
Fatty acids present in seaweed provides moisture to the skin while maintaining our skin barrier.
-vitamins
Vitamins present in seaweed such as vitamin E, provides moisture to the skin.
-polysaccharides
Seaweed is rich in polysaccharides (such as alginic acid). Polysaccharides are able to attract up to 1,000 times their wight in water molecules. This ability helps the skin retain water, thus keeping it moisturised.
2) Provides softness to the skin
Seaweed can provide a softer complexion that bounces back when touched. It helps plump the skin by rehydrating dehydrated skin cells.
3) Anti-inflammatory benefits
According to this study, seaweed has anti-inflammatory benefits.
It can help sooth inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and rosacea.
4) Forms a protective barrier
Seaweed contains minerals such as omega, zinc and magnesium that forms a barrier to protect the skin from environmental damage (such as harsh weathers or dry environments).
5) Offers brightness to the skin
Seaweed is rich in antioxidants (such as vitamin B and C) that help to clear pigmentation issues developed after long sun exposure. It contributes healthy new skin cells production that help to clear and brighten the skin.
6) Gently exfoliates, cleanse and detoxifies
Seaweed can deeply cleanse the pores of your skin without stripping it from its natural oils. It detoxifies (it passes to your skin the ability to get rid of toxic chemicals, which seaweed earned it in nature), and gently exfoliates dead skin cells that sit on your face. It can act as a cleanser while moisturising the skin at the same time.
This results in a brighter and more glowing complexion.
7) Anti-aging
According to this study, seaweed has anti-aging properties.
-Promotes collagen production
Seaweeds are generally rich in amino acids (such as glycine) and natural antioxidants (such as vitamin B and C) that promote collagen production (collagen being an essential protein to obtain a wrinkle-free, youthful skin) and lead to a plumper skin.
– Protects against free radicals
Seaweed naturally contains vitamin A and vitamin B12 that help to protect the skin against free radical damage (free radicals are atoms that can damage skin cells by disrupting their DNA and can lead to premature signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles).
Using seaweed in your skincare can help protect your skin against free radicals’ damage and can help keep your skin look younger.
Side effects of seaweed
Seaweed is considered as a safe ingredient. However, spot test on your wrist/arm before trying any new ingredient on your face.
Legal Disclaimer
This content does NOT provide medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is NOT a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult your own doctor for more information.
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