For decades, the modern cosmetics industry has incorporated sea-derived active ingredients into skincare formulations. Seawater, along with various marine minerals and plant extracts, has played a significant role. These marine components are crucial for maintaining healthy skin because they are rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and fatty acids.
So why are so many marine plant extracts exceptionally rich in nutrients? The answer is simple: To thrive, these marine plants absorb essential vitamins, minerals, and trace elements directly from seawater, effectively storing them within their structures. For example, one kilogram of algae contains active ingredients from around 100,000 liters of seawater because. Therefore, algae can store up to 1000 times more iodine, 100 times more calcium, and 10 times more magnesium and copper than terrestrial plants, thereby exhibiting the highest nutrient density in the plant kingdom.
Anti-Aging miracle algae
Numerous nutrients found in algae can help protect the skin from environmental influences since the antioxidants found in algae markedly contribute to neutralizing free radicals—thereby helping to prevent premature aging of the skin—by reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation spots, leaving the skin looking healthy and radiant.
The moisture retainability of algae makes it a favored active ingredient in skincare products, aiding in maintaining hydrated and supple skin, preventing moisture loss, and strengthening the skin barrier.
Many types of algae also have special anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and relieve skin irritation and inflammation. This is particularly beneficial for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Already used for skincare in ancient times
The skincare effect of algae was already recognized in ancient times. Especially in countries that have access to the sea, the use of marine resources, including algae, in skincare has a long tradition.
Japan is one of the countries where algae have long been used in cosmetics. Algae varieties like wakame, nori, and kombu are not only integral to the Japanese diet but are also valued for their skincare properties.
China also has a rich history of utilizing algae in traditional medicine and cosmetics. Within Chinese culture, algae extracts have been employed for multiple applications, including skincare, showcasing their versatile benefits.
However, the utilization of algae in cosmetics has undergone significant global evolution in recent decades, driven by increasing scientific evidence of its health-promoting properties.
The special effect of brown algae
Globally, the four primary families of algae encompass green algae, brown algae, red algae, and microalgae.
Brown algae are increasingly being used for high-quality skincare because they contain the highly effective ingredient fucoidan.
This is a sulfated polysaccharide that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine and has recently gained attention for its skincare benefits. Fucoidan has numerous beneficial properties for the skin, including its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral effects. It also has antioxidant properties and can protect the skin in several ways.
Brown algae are particularly effective because they have the unique ability to protect skin collagen and elastin, which are essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. Collagen, a key protein in our skin, constitutes a substantial part of its structure, yet its production naturally diminishes with aging.
Fucoidan helps counteract this natural process and can assist in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
While fucoidan supports the skin in shielding against environmental damage, such as UV radiation and pollution, it also aids in diminishing hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.
Doubling the active ingredient power: fucoidan and ectoin
reveel by MedSkin Solutions uses fucoidan in the reveel Marine Spray Serum and combines it with another special ingredient ectoin.
Ectoin is a natural compound found in various extremophiles, such as halophilic bacteria and archaea. It is produced by these organisms as a protective mechanism against extreme environmental conditions, such as high salt concentrations, drought, and UV radiation. In skincare, ectoin is used for its protective, anti-aging, and moisturizing properties.
The powerful anti-aging properties of fucoidan and ectoin make them extremely effective ingredients for use in skincare products.
Fucoidan aids in preventing collagen and elastin breakdown, thereby assisting in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Ectoin helps to protect the skin from environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV radiation, and combats oxidative stress.
The effectiveness of the ingredient combination has also been proven by clinical studies: The reveel Marine Spray Serum increases skin hydration to 21% after 20 minutes and reduces wrinkles by 7% after 20 minutes and by 17% after 4 weeks.1
1Dermatological Evaluation, Zurko Bioresearch, 2022, Split Face study, Twice daily application (female and male, aged 30 to 60, healthy skin)
