What is algae?
There are over 25,000 marine plants, all of which are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, proteins, amino acids, essential fatty acids, and trace elements. There are three groups of algae: red algae, brown algae, and green algae. However, not all of them have the same properties and uses. Some algae are edible or can be used in cosmetics.
Which algae for which benefits?
Microalgae have the advantage of hydrating, nourishing, protecting, and regenerating the skin. They have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Chlorella and spirulina are the two most well-known microalgae used in cosmetics. Spirulina is a popular product in spas and beauty salons for making masks and marine wraps, while chlorella is more commonly used as a cosmetic ingredient in anti-aging formulas. Sourced from freshwater, they are the most widely cultivated and widely used for their excellent properties for human health. Chlorella is often compared to the skin's collagen. Spirulina also slows skin aging thanks to its antioxidant molecules. Discover our article "In cosmetics and food, it's everywhere. Who am I?" to better understand these ingredients.
Large algae are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Undaria Pinnatifida, or wakame, is a species of brown algae that can measure between 1.5 and 3 meters in length. Originally from Japan, where it has been traditionally cultivated for several decades, this algae was accidentally introduced to France in the early 1970s. It became established in the Thau lagoon (Hérault), and cultivation trials were then conducted in Brittany and Charente-Maritime. These brown algae are rich in antioxidants and improve skin hydration and firmness. Indeed, these algae extracts act on the genes coding for the synthesis of molecules that give volume and strength to the skin (collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid). With age, the genes are less active, leading to a decrease in the quantity and quality of synthesized proteins. These algae extracts stimulate the activity of genes responsible for the synthesis of molecules forming the extracellular matrix. These are then cosmetic ingredients used in anti-wrinkle treatments to plump the skin.
However, be careful to choose your seaweed carefully, its origin, and check that production is environmentally friendly. To produce seaweed extracts used in cosmetics, producers collect the seaweed on foot or at sea, to cultivate and reproduce it. Once the plant is mature, they collect it before it dies at the end of summer. The extract is made from the fertile base to enhance its cellular rejuvenation properties for cosmetics. The rest of the seaweed is used in food.
Algae in food?
You're probably familiar with the use of seaweed in sushi. It's called nori, but other seaweeds are edible. Used in food for their thickening and gelling properties (agaragar), seaweed is also rich in vitamins and minerals, and low in calories. Seaweed is tasty and good for your health!
Spirulina and chlorella, whose cosmetic benefits we've detailed, also have other benefits for your body. Freshwater microalgae are known for their high protein content. They are both natural stimulants. After the war, Japan used chlorella to combat famine and nutritional deficiencies. It was then found in drinks, biscuits, and powdered milk.
Spirulina Guacamole Toast
Mix a little dried spirulina (available in health food stores) with a tablespoon of olive oil. Mash an avocado into a puree. Stir in the olive oil mixture and add shallots, lemon juice, and sesame seeds. Add a pinch of salt and spread the mixture on toast.
Algae also have other virtues that you may not have suspected, such as in medicine, agriculture, the textile industry or even in wastewater treatment.
Ready to incorporate seaweed into your daily life?
Article written by Clémentine - Alaena Team, on 08/18/2017