Beauty products derived from algae and inspired by the nutrient-rich power of the sea? That’s the idea behind BKIND’s Marine Algae Face Moisturizer and Biossance’s Squalane+Marine Algae Cream, along with dozens of other algae-infused skincare products that have recently graced both social media and Sephora.
What are the benefits to using algae-based skincare products?
The use of algae in skincare is beneficial in many ways, including but not limited to the following points:
- Algae extract boosts the anti-aging properties of skincare products.
- The antioxidants found in algae-containing products effectively treat acne breakouts.
- Adding algae to a custom cream or serum formulation will yield an ultra-moisturizing product your customers will love.
What is algae extract?
Extracted from marine algae, this seaweed-based compound is an antioxidant-rich skincare ingredient that is added to creams, lotions, cleansers, and serums as well as shampoos and conditioners. Algae is most often used to boost the anti-aging and skin-protecting properties of these products, although its long list of benefits extend even further beyond these already-impressive claims.
Depending on the variety of algae being sought, the extract can be harvested from both freshwater and saltwater sources. Once collected, it’s broken down into one of two categories: macro (large enough to see with the human eye) or micro (can only be seen under a microscope).
With over 800,000 species of algae on record, the most common types of varieties used by humans are kelp, spirulina, and seaweed. However, when it comes to choosing a type of algae for your skincare brand, it all comes down to making the right decision based on colour.
Are there different types of algae?
Cosmetics grade algae extract is made from four major types of seaweed: red algae, brown algae, green algae, and blue and green algae. Each class of algae comes with its own distinct set of skin-improving properties and may be added on its own or combined with other types of algae.
- Blue-green algae and red algae are high in antioxidants, which help strengthen and protect the skin’s natural barrier from environmental stressors.
- Blue-green algae contains a compound that acts as a natural alternative to retinoids, helping to minimize the appearance of fine lines.
- Brown algae extract increases a product’s capacity to hold moisture, leading to skin that is well-moisturized, firm, and youthful in appearance.
- As is more-than-hinted-at by its striking ruby appearance, red algae contains a surplus of antioxidants and minerals that work together to protect and nourish the skin.
- All types of algae prevent enzymes from breaking down collagen—this may prevent the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.
What are the key compounds and minerals found in algae extract?
Despite its simple appearance, the way in which algae grows and is structured is incredibly complex. Considered to have 10 times more diversity of beneficial compounds than terrestrial plants, aquatic algae have neither a root or a shoot system (unlike earth-bound shrubs). Despite these major structural differences, the extract that is processed from algae contains several familiar-sounding compounds:
- Bromide: skin-soothing properties
- Calcium: promotes collagen production
- Magnesium: relaxes the skin and underlying muscles
- Sodium: hydrates skin and retains moisture
- Vitamin A: acne treatment and anti-aging properties, naturally-occurring retinoid
- Vitamin B: hydrates skin, regulates oil production, and repairs the skin barrier
- Vitamin C: brightens the skin and stimulates collagen production
- Vitamin E: hydrates the skin and fades fine lines and scars
- Omega 3 fatty acids: hugely anti-inflammatory, helps retain moisture and hydrates skin, enhances the skin barrier, and maintains skin elasticity
- Amino acids: promotes collagen production, protects skin barrier, improves firmness and elasticity, and evens out skin tone
When algae extracts are combined, the benefits become layered—giving your potential client a high quality product made with concentrated, best-quality ingredients.
What can algae extract do for the skin?
Skincare formulations that include algae extract are created to target collagen levels, soothe inflamed or acne-prone skin, protect the skin barrier from environmental damage, and to revitalize and brighten the skin.
Can products containing algae be used over a long period of time?
As long as there’s no adverse reaction to the product, then algae extract is safe for topical application and long term use. Algae extract is generally considered safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and can even be applied to treat minor skin irritations.
Is it safe to use skincare products containing algae extract during pregnancy and while breastfeeding?
Products that contain algae-extract—made from any type of cosmetic grade algae—are considered safe for topical use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
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Conclusion
Skincare products made with algae-extract are being shown to provide multiple benefits when it comes to the health of your skin (not to mention the skin of your customers). Whether you’re looking to create a gentle-yet-effective anti-inflammatory lotion or a collagen-boosting serum, creating a custom product made with algae extract couldn’t be simpler thanks to Blanka Labs, the modern way to formulate beauty products and take them to market. Let our beauty experts help with custom formulation while adhering to strict testing and safety standards. With low minimum order quantities, you’ll have the option to test sales of your product before scaling up.
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