For centuries, humans have used the expansive resources of the ocean to enhance their skin. However, commercial use in the beauty industry has only been used in recent years.
Seawater provides a balanced way to supplement minerals to human cells and provides a nutrient-rich growing environment for algae. As marine plants grow in this perfect mineral medium, they absorb and concentrate various nutrients also beneficial to the human body.
There are tens of thousands of varieties of seaweed in the world and medical studies show they can help to reduce joint pain, lower blood lipids for better heart health, and prevent allergies. Cosmetics companies and marine scientists have researched seaweed and formulated various skincare products as well. Our skin likes the nutrients seaweed as it contains beta-carotene, potassium, zinc and iodine. Seaweeds take nutrients directly from the ocean and are more potent than they are in land plants.
Marine Ingredients and Skin Care Products
Marine ingredients are picking up steam in skin care, as they offer a range of benefits and are more advanced scientifically than before. Green seaweeds act as an astringent and is used in some foam cleansing products. Red seaweed is rich in beta-carotene, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Phytoplankton, tiny plant-like microorganisms, are used to fight ultraviolet damage and free radicals.
The harvesting and preserving of marine ingredients has become more advanced over the past several decades, helping to make better and more environmentally friendly marine skin care products. In many countries harvesting of seaweed is regulated as marine plants serve as a portion of the food chain and can diminish the fish population if left unregulated. Many companies are cutting seaweed and not yanking it out as particular process allows the seaweed to grow back and be sustainable.
The skin is the largest organ of human body. No person has perfect skin as the chemicals in our air, water, and food have many negative effects. Treatments using ingredients from the sea can help repair the skin and body while bringing back that youthful look, but as with many beauty products and skin care treatments available today, it’s hard to tell how effective any really are.
Consult a skin care professional to find out what ingredients from the sea work best for the results you are after.