Awesome Algae
Breakthrough Technologies From Marine Algae Found In The Hippocrates Wellness ‘BECOME’ Skincare Range.
Over the past years, the importance of marine algae in skincare has firmly found its place in the spa industry. Pure seaweed powders are commonly used in body wraps, facial masks, scalp treatments, and hydrotherapy. A mask made of pure Laminaria algae powder is still considered an amazing anti-aging treatment transporting vital elements and vitamins to the skin that are both biocompatible and bioavailable.
However, thousands of species of marine algae dwell in the ocean coastlines, most of which are yet to be analyzed for potential human benefits. I would like to touch on a few of the algaes we are using that possess special properties you should know about. First, let’s discuss the causes of some species of algae that have extraordinary powers: environmental stress, extreme conditions such as hot or cold temperatures, availability of sunlight, ultraviolet exposure, etc., stimulate certain algae to modify their DNA to adapt to these stressful conditions. These algae and other plant life are called Extremophiles—organisms that can adapt and even thrive under conditions not hospitable to most life forms. To survive, they may produce enzymes to protect their DNA, create extra powerful antioxidants, or buffers to counteract extremely acidic or alkaline environments. We should also note that these extraordinary marine elements and extracts work within the matrix of phytochemicals synthesized by algae. This is referred to as an ‘entourage effect,’ which means that these ingredients work more efficiently within the algae matrix.
Below is a description of a few of them, what makes them unique, and in which products they can be found.
Fucoidan
There is not enough room to tout the extraordinary marine polysaccharides. This extremophile is secreted by the family of brown algae, including Laminaria, Fucus, Ascophyllum, and Undaria, during low tides when exposed to ultraviolet rays. Fucoidan protects algae DNA and works similarly when extracted and applied topically. Research from labs in Russia, Australia, and France, show that:
- When applied topically, it helps prevent collagenase and elastase, which are enzymes that break down connective tissue.
- Working with Polyphenols provides strong antioxidant protection.
- Application stimulates collagen synthesis according to research from Australia as well as the Pasteur Institute.
This is on top of the many health benefits of Fucoidan, which nutritionally supports liver functions and, most impressively, promotes cellular apoptosis (destruction of cancer cells).
ANACYSTIS NIDULANS:
Imagine an algae extract that can repair the damage done to sunburned skin within 24- hours. Researchers discovered a unique enzyme taken from plankton that does just that. Floating atop the ocean’s surface, plankton is subjected to extreme levels of ultraviolet rays that are damaging to its DNA. To defend against harmful mutations, it synthesizes a unique enzyme that repairs strands of DNA that scientists call dimers—strands of DNA where certain molecules become misaligned. In other words, one of the nucleic acids becomes depolarized and repels a similarly charged guanine nucleotide. When your skin cells’ DNA is exposed to UV rays, the same thing occurs that, over time, can lead to accelerated aging symptoms and, eventually, cancer. Without getting too technical, plankton enzymes contribute DNA healing ions to the surface of your skin and reverse any damage. But there is a catch. Activating the healing enzymes requires exposure to sunlight. Ironically, it takes sunlight to activate the algae’s enzymes to repair the damage from the sun’s UV rays!
Found in: Hippocrates Wellness Become Joy Renewal Cream
Astaxanthin:
This is an ultimate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, more powerful than beta-carotene, and is the product of an algae known as Haemotacoccus Pluvialis.
This microalgae produces the strongest carotenoid to defend its DNA from harmful UV rays. Originally green in color, it turns blood red after 48-hours of exposure to the sun.
When extracted, it is added to skin oils and serums for its skin-calming properties and antioxidants to protect your skin from environmental aging factors. Japanese studies also demonstrated the anti-wrinkle properties of astaxanthin. In a 2001 study conducted by Seki et al., female subjects experienced a reduction of wrinkles using a cream with astaxanthin. A dermatological assessment showed more. A reduction of puffiness around the eyes and a significant increase in skin hydration was observed after only 2 weeks.
Found in: Hippocrates Wellness Become a Little Tenderness
DUNALIELLA SALINA
Speaking of extremophiles, this microalgae thrives under extreme sun exposure and intense osmotic pressure caused by super saline waters. The result is an alga that has learned to adapt, synthesizing a range of carotenoids to defend its DNA and cellular functions. These qualities are most valuable in skincare through its antioxidant and anti-glycation properties to fight signs of aging and reduce the effects of long exposure to the sun and other environmental aging factors. (Glycation is the bonding of sugar molecules to collagen fibers and other connective tissues in the skin that interfere with their normal function, accelerating the aging process).
A team of researchers led by Fabien Havas conducted a placebo-controlled clinical study under intense solar exposure and found that Dunaliella salina algae “significantly reduced the skin’s glycation scores and its sensitivity to histamine; key skin aging parameters were also significantly improved vs. placebo, including wrinkle counts and spots.”
RAINBOW ALGAE
This can reduce the appearance of age spots with results showing in only one week! Cytoseira Tamariscifolia is yet another seaweed that exemplifies the adaptive properties of marine algae. It is an iridescent species that dwells along the north shore of the Brittany coast. Like a chameleon, its fatty acid spheres along its surface change colors to better capture sunlight for photosynthesis. Depending upon the tidal depth (2-40 feet every six hours), and weather conditions, the seaweed can change from red/purple to blue/green.
Researchers isolated the actives responsible and found they could prevent melanogenesis when applied to the skin. These melano-busters help to even out skin tone, reduce the appearance of age spots, and work synergistically with vitamin C esters.
ARCTIC LICHENS:
When exposed to low temperatures, Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss) synthesizes a dipeptide rich in nitrogen: citrulline-arginine. The algae metabolizes this dipeptide in the spring to stimulate its growth. Citrullyl-arginine is extracted and, when applied on the skin, is very moisturizing and energizing and allows cells to maintain optimal activity even in extreme conditions and to resist skin dehydration by building up the skin’s barrier. This is especially useful during the winter months when the air is dryer and skin exposed to extreme cold experiences creates a sluggish skin metabolism, and is subject to irritation.
This is a brief overview of some of the extraordinary ingredients nature provides us with from the sea—the source of life itself.
I provide facials in Miami and the Doral area of Miami, and skin care procedures including Scarlett SRF Microneedling in Miami with beautiful esthetician rooms in the Doral, and Miami for your convenience. My approach to skin care and beauty is to provide you with the safest, organic, gentle facial treatment services, facial procedures and skin care facial products and professional skin care advice you need in the Doral or in Miami as a Facial Specialist.
