Maximising efficacy of algae extracts in skin care

Tapping into nature for the benefits it can offer in skin care has been an approach used for centuries. There could be elements of nature, such as plants and seaweed, that have been around for millions to billions of years and have never been researched for their use in applications such as personal care. Once their skin care advantages are discovered, if they demonstrate strong efficacy, it could catapult them to becoming the next megatrend. This is what has been seen with algae. Its use in skin care dates back centuries. It has been applied for fat reduction, skin improvement and in procedures for anti-ageing that resemble modern thalassotherapy. Only recently has it become a trend as formulators and consumers learn more about this miracle ingredient.

Microalgae are photosynthetic organisms and are natural superfoods that turn the sun’s energy into proteins, antioxidants and microelements. There are between 200,000 and 800,000 species that exist and in many different genera. Of those, approximately only 50,000 species are described.1 As the species of these microalgae differs, so does the genetic composition, which allows them to provide a variety of skin care benefits. They are abundant sources of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants and essential fatty acids (EFAs), and have the capability to be readily absorbed to nourish, moisturise, and rejuvenate the skin. In addition, certain algae are exposed to habitats with high oxidative stress, priming them to build protective systems against reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals.

Outside the benefits that algae and microalgae impart when it comes to skin care, there is an additional draw with microalgae, since they can involve an eco-innovative and sustainable process, which protects aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This helps to generate products that are not only natural, but nature-friendly. Microalgae can be grown in a bioreactor, which eliminates the need for sea harvesting. It also allows for greater yields from smaller areas, is readily renewable, and can be carbon neutral or negative.