RED ALGAE

RED ALGAE: Antioxidant, hydration, firmness

MARINE ACTIVE ⎪ CELLULAR REINFORCEMENT & DEEP MOISTURIZING

What is red algae?

Red algae is an active ingredient of marine origin naturally rich in polysaccharides, minerals, and antioxidants. It belongs to the family of Rhodophyta and is particularly appreciated for its benefits on the skin and tissues. Some specific species, such as Chondrus crispus (Irish moss) or Lithothamnium calcareum, are used in cosmetics or as a supplement for their high content of carrageenan and calcium.

Used for centuries in traditional coastal medicines, red algae is today recognized as a multifunctional ingredient, capable of deeply hydrating, strengthening the skin barrier, and fighting against cellular aging.

Where does red algae come from?

Red algae is harvested from the cold, shallow waters of the Atlantic or Pacific coasts, where it grows naturally on rocks. Certain species are cultivated sustainably, while respecting the marine ecosystem.

After harvest, it is transformed using gentle processes to preserve its active ingredients: drying at low temperature, aqueous or enzymatic extraction, etc.

Properties and active ingredients

Red algae is a moisturizing and remineralizing active ingredient. Here are its main actions:

• Deep hydration : thanks to its polysaccharides (carrageenan), it forms a protective film on the skin, limiting water loss.
• Antioxidant shield effect : it helps neutralize free radicals, responsible for oxidative stress and cellular aging.
• Firmness action : it supports the synthesis of collagen and the elasticity of the skin.
• Mineral intake (calcium, magnesium) : essential for cellular metabolism, vascular tone and tissue regeneration.
• Soothing effect : it calms skin inflammations and reduces redness.

What are the benefits of red algae?

Red algae is used today for its combined effects on skin, circulation, and fluid balance :

• Prolonged hydration of the skin (even in dry or aggressive environments).
• Improved skin elasticity and tone.
• Support in case of water retention or heavy legs, via a gentle draining effect.
• Reduction of redness and soothing of the skin, especially in reactive skin.
• Protection against external attacks (pollution, UV, climate).

How to consume or apply red algae?

Depending on its form, red algae can be:

• Incorporated in cosmetics (gel, serum, mask) for its moisturizing and firming effects.
• Present in certain food supplements remineralizing or detoxifying (powder form, concentrated extracts).
• Used locally as a poultice or wrap in marine treatments or thalassotherapies.

Any side effects?

Red algae is well tolerated in topical use as well as in supplementation. However:

• She is at use with caution in people allergic to algae or iodine.
• As a supplement rich in calcium, it must be suitable for people at risk of kidney stones.

Sources

Red algae is one of the most studied marine active ingredients for its effects on hydration, the skin barrier and anti-aging. Numerous scientific publications highlight its protective, restorative and soothing role, particularly on sensitive skin or skin prone to hormonal imbalances (water retention, inflammation, sagging).

1. 100% Pure – 4 Ways Red Algae Benefits Your Skin: deep hydration, plumping effect, UV protection via mycosporin-like amino acids, lightening action thanks to natural vitamin C.
   ➤ https://www.100percentpure.com/blogs/feed/4-ways-red-algae-benefits-your-skin
2. NCBI (PMC) – Beneficial Effects of Marine Algae-Derived Carbohydrates for Skin
   Hydration, protective film, anti-aging, strengthening of the skin barrier.
   ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
   ➤ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6266229/
3. L’OréalParis – Red Algae Extract Antioxidant Skincare Benefits ➤https://www.lorealparisusa.com/ingredient-library/red-algae