Herbs And Botanicals Extracts In Anti-Aging Creams -

Algae Extract

• blue green algae
• seaweed
  • kelp extract
  • Giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera)

Algae extract is known for its non-irritating and non-comedogenic moisturization qualities (some forms of algae extract are not so beneficial). Algae Extract contain active substance used to normalize the skin’s moisture content and provide suppleness to the epidermis. There are different types of algae but the most used is Blue Green Algae in skin treatments. Seaweed is often used as well as it does a really good job of soothing skin and adding a great protective barrier for skin. Blue green algae and seaweed are two of great skin moisturizers.

According to research, sea kelp as a whole is thought to be useful in skin care products thanks to its high iodine, vitamin and mineral content. It is considered an anti-septic and anti-irritant that can not only heal sun-damaged skin, but can prevent wrinkles. It is also used in beauty products because of its gelatinous quality that adds shine to hair and glow to skin.

Kelp Extract is made from nutrient-rich seaweed like Sargassum, Ascophyllum Nodosum, and Laminaria. It’s 100% organic and is rich with natural hormones, minerals and other elements. It has been used to treat anemia and in cases of obesity because of its high iodine content, which has a normalizing effect on the thyroid. Iodine is known to be pore clogging. Avoid any kelp extract if you are acne prone or have sensitive skin.

Macrocystis Pyrifera Extract is an extract of a giant brown seaweed, Macrocystis Pyrifera, found in the Antarctic. Little research exists specifically on Macrocystis Pyrifera Extract, although one study did find that “An extract of the Macrocystis pyrifera seaweed showed the ability to inhibit the expression of metalloproteinases in a bicellular culture study. When the extract was included in a topical formulation and applied to the skin of human volunteers, the skin showed a reduction in wrinkles, suggesting its use in formulations making an anti aging claim.” There are no adverse side effects associated with Macrocystis Pyrifera Extract and the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has given it a safety rating of 100%. Recommended Products w/ Macrocystis Pyrifera Extract: Revitol Cellulite Cream, Revlon Age Defying Spa Foundation.

Products that Contain Algae Extract:

M2 Skin Refinish 20%
M2 Skin Recovery Moisturizer
M2 Exfoliating Cleanser
Obagi Elastiderm Night Eye Cream
M2 Body Refinish 15%
RevaleSkin Replenishing Eye Therapy
NuCelle Mandelic Cleanser
PCA Skin (pHaze 18) Clearskin
Obagi Elastiderm Day Eye Gel
Colorescience Line Tamer SPF 20
M2 Skin Refinish 12%
NuCelle Mandelic Serum 10%
Colorescience Wild to Mild Skin Bronzer
NuCelle Mandelic Toner
Kinerase Pro+Therapy Ultra Rich Eye Repair