Rainbow Spotlight: Red Microalgae in Skincare

If you only know algae as that slimy green goo that grows on ponds, you'll be delighted to hear that this marine plant offers a slew of skincare benefits. 

In this article, we're shining a spotlight on red algae -- an all-around moisturizing skincare ingredient. 

WHAT IS RED ALGAE?

Red microalgae, also known as red seaweed, belongs to the Rhodophyta, which means "red plants." While most plants are green due to their chlorophyll, red algae gets its red hue from the pigments phycoerythrin and phycocyanin.

"These pigments mask the other pigments, such as chlorophyll, which would make the algae green," explains Dr. Debra Jaliman, a board-certified dermatologist at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. "Red Algae can live in much deeper, warmer water than other algae, which need to live near the surface of the water in order to absorb more light."

Approximately 7,000 different species of red algae exist. Red microalgae is by far one of the best species sourced for skincare. 

Other types of algae include kelp, brown algae, green algae, and blue algae. Spirulina is a blue-green algae.

BENEFITS OF RED MICROALGAE FOR SKIN

Hydrating

Red seaweed is a hydration powerhouse. Like hyaluronic acid (HA), red algae are polysaccharides, which makes them natural humectants. They pull moisture into the surface of the skin and hold it there for lasting hydration.  

Red algae lends itself to any skin type and concern, but specifically to dry skin. It also works well for dehydrated skin, providing ample moisture without leaving the skin feeling oily or greasy. 

You can find this ingredient in cleansers, serums, lotions, and masks designed to hydrate the skin.

Sun Protection

In addition to being fantastic moisturizers, red algae is rich in magnesium, fatty acids, and vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E. These antioxidant properties help shield the skin from UV rays and pollution, keeping your skin healthy, vibrant, and youthful.

Recent studies show that red microalgae can fight free radicals that lead to oxidative stress, preserving the health of human skin and warding off premature aging. 

Other studies suggest that marine red algae can inhibit enzymes responsible for inflammation, serving as a skin calmer. Thus, red algae leaves skin soothed, plump, and glowing.

In regards to sun protection, red algae contains is packed with amino acids that function as antioxidants, absorbing solar energy and protecting the skin from harmful UV rays. This implies that red algae can be effective in supporting SPF functions. However, that does not mean you should use this product in place of sunscreen.

Brightening

Red algae is rich in vitamin C, an essential ingredient for brightening the skin. It's also an excellent antioxidant used for scavenging skin-damaging free radicals, and balancing uneven skin tone.

Vitamin C inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme responsible for darkening parts of the skin in response to sun damage. If you have hyperpigmentation from sun damage or acne scars, using a red algae-infused skincare formulation can help fade dark spots for a clear and even complexion. 

Anti-Aging

Red algae is loaded with collagen-boosting elements like copper, zinc, and magnesium which helps increase density and elasticity for an overall youthful complexion.

In addition, this marine algae boasts many beneficial compounds such as polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, pigments, and vitamins. These nourishing ingredients help hydrate and nourish the skin cells. Bioactives, like carrageenan, allow red algae to protect the skin from environmental stressors like pollution and sun rays.

What's more, red algae is shown to possess antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity, making it an effective and natural alternative to chemical preservatives, and a powerful anti-aging ingredient.

That's why you'll find algae and its derivatives in a variety of anti-aging products. It's an extremely powerful antioxidant for turning back the clock. 

Acne-Fighting

According to Miami-based dermatologist Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, "Red marine algae is your best bet for handling blemishes like blackheads, whiteheads, and cysts."

She says "It contains levels of beta carotene,” which is a precursor of vitamin A, the basis of anti-acne treatments like retinol and Accutane. Sourced from marine algae, it's much gentler than prescription options.

Ciraldo also points out that red microalgae can clear pores. Since clogged pores are a root cause of breakouts, it means the algae is particularly effective at both preventing and treating acne breakouts. If you have acne, look for this ingredient in skincare products.

Reduces Inflammation

As a natural anti-inflammatory, red microalgae is an excellent skincare ingredient for reducing redness and irritation in sensitive skin types. 

Irritation can affect all skin types. It is often caused by allergic reactions to certain skincare ingredients and tends to result in dryness, itchiness, and inflammation. Ultimately, it suggests that the skin is out of balance.

Red algae helps to balance the skin by creating a calming environment through anti-inflammatory properties that reduces redness, itching, or flaking.

Recommended Red Microalgae Skincare Products

If you are looking for natural skincare products infused with red algae, try Rainbow Tighten Bundle. 

This bundle includes a mask and serum designed for both the face and body. It's formulated with red microalgae and a blend of alpha hydroxy acids to reduce wrinkles, stimulate collagen production, and spur the shedding of dead skin cells. 

Make these two products part of your skincare regimen to reap the most benefits from red algae. With consistent use, you will see a visible improvement in your complexion. 

You can also purchase these two products separately. 

All varieties of seaweed can be beneficial for the skin. However, red microalgae is by far one of the best when it comes to treating a wide range of skin concerns. Whether you are looking to replenish moisture in dry skin, plump out fine lines and wrinkles, or simply enjoy a brightening effect, red seaweed can assist. Best of all, it is suitable for all skin types.