What does algae extract do for skin?

What is algae extract?

Algae include larger seaweeds, called macroalgae, and smaller organisms called microalgae. Skincare ingredients can come from brown, red or green algae, among other groups. Marine algae contain carbohydrates, fats, proteins, amino acids and minerals. Microalgae also supply compounds such as antioxidants and vitamins. An extract contains material taken from these organisms; it is not one standard ingredient with one standard effect.12

Is algae extract good for skin?

Algae can be useful cosmetic ingredients, particularly for moisturising. Other potential benefits include antioxidant activity, reduced inflammation and support for elasticity. Antioxidants help counter oxidative stress, a process involved in skin ageing. Much of the work on these benefits concerns particular species or isolated compounds rather than interchangeable algae extracts. Choose an algae product for a useful cosmetic job, not an ocean themed promise, however hard the packaging is trying to arrange a seaside holiday.2

Does algae extract hydrate skin?

Yes, algae derived carbohydrates are used as moisturising ingredients. Certain algae preparations have also increased hydration or reduced transepidermal water loss, meaning water escaping through the skin, in human testing. Some tested preparations combined algae with other compounds, so choose the whole moisturiser rather than giving algae sole credit.1

Algae carbohydrates also help gel, thicken and stabilise cosmetic formulas. Their role can therefore be partly about how a product holds together, rather than a visible change in skin. A smoother formula is a useful cosmetic job, even if it is less glamorous than the ocean doing your skincare.1

Will algae extract help wrinkles or dark spots?

These are possibilities, not dependable results across algae products. Specific extracts have improved elasticity or collagen related measures in human skin. Findings involving reduced pigment production often come from cells or animals. Treat moisturising as a practical reason to consider an algae formula; do not choose an unspecified extract as a treatment for wrinkles or dark spots.1

How do you use algae extract in skincare?

Use the finished product's directions for the amount, application time and whether to rinse. General guidance for introducing a new cosmetic applies to algae formulas too:3

1. 1Choose a test spot about the size of a quarter on the underside of your arm or inside your elbow.
2. 2Apply the normal amount twice daily for seven to 10 days, somewhere the product will not be rubbed or washed away.
3. 3Leave a product on for its usual contact time. For a cleanser, use five minutes or the time its instructions specify, then rinse.
4. 4If there is no redness, itching or swelling after the test period, begin using the product as directed.

Can algae extract irritate sensitive skin?

An algae containing cosmetic can cause irritation or allergy, just as other cosmetics can. Any ingredient can cause a contact reaction; fragrances and preservatives are frequent causes. A reaction to an algae product does not automatically identify algae as the culprit. People with atopic eczema are more prone to irritant reactions.4

If you have a fragrance allergy, choose products labelled fragrance free or without perfume. Unscented products can still contain fragrance used to mask other smells. Allergy can also develop after years of using a cosmetic without problems.4

What should you do if your skin reacts?

If a product causes a reaction, gently wash it off and stop using it. A cool compress or petroleum jelly can help relieve the skin. See a dermatologist if the reaction is severe and these measures do not help. Get urgent medical help for difficulty breathing or swelling that affects your airway.34

For recurring or unexplained reactions, a dermatologist can investigate contact allergy with patch testing. This is different from testing a finished product at home: diluted allergens are applied and reactions are assessed over several days. Patch testing helps identify allergic contact dermatitis, an allergic skin rash, rather than irritant dermatitis. Bring the suspect product and its packaging to the appointment so the ingredients can be checked.5