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Spirulina is known to be a healing supplement and a superfood (have you hopped on the spiraling smoothie trend yet?), but what you might not know is that this natural ingredient can also be found in skin care products. Yes, Spirulina maxima (blue-green algae) and other ingredients from the ocean can be beneficial even when used exclusively externally!
Spirulina maxima extract comes from blue-green algae, which is actually a type of bacteria that thrives in water and is able to photosynthesize. These organisms are pretty simple, they're plant-like, and they live in both saltwater and fresh water.
Some varieties of algae are toxic (so don't ever gather algae from ponds and slather them on your skin!), but Spirulina maxima is nutritious and is a powerful gift from nature. Its jade color comes from phycocyanin, which is a photosynthetic pigment. But there are varieties of Spirulina that appear to be pinkish because of their carotenoid content.
Spirulina algae has been used for centuries now, and with its high nutritional value, there is no doubt that it will continue to be in use for many more years to come. The blue-green algae is a wonderful ingredient that can benefit practically every part of the human body – including the skin.
Spirulina maxima extract is rich in essential amino acids and has a high protein content, which is necessary for the growth and rejuvenation of the skin cells. Furthermore, Spirulina maxima extract contains gamma-linolenic fatty acid. Here are our top three Spirulina skin benefits:
Gamma-linolenic acid and other fatty acids are known to support the skin’s structural integrity. They also help reduce inflammation in the skin. These fatty acids, along with antioxidants (which Spirulina also has) are able to fight off free radicals.
Free radicals are known to contribute to cancer, but they are also harmful to the complexion, as they can make the skin appear dull and old. Thankfully, Spirulina maxima's antioxidants can help boost the metabolism of the skin, which allows the cells to regenerate faster, helping you achieve glowing, youthful skin.
In this way, Spirulina maxima extract in skin care products can protect your skin and help prevent the appearance of wrinkles, discoloration, and other signs of aging. And if these benefits of Spirulina are not yet enough, it can also promote the production of elastin and collagen, which will help firm up your skin! Spirulina can also repair damage caused by UV light exposure, as well as help people who suffer from atopic dermatitis.
Apart from helping you achieve youthful skin, Spirulina maxima extract can also help reduce acne. Spirulina is a natural antimicrobial, and it can kill off the bacteria that cause breakouts. Furthermore, it can help to balance oily or overly dry skin.
Spirulina maxima extract can give balance to polar opposite skin types (oily and dry) by regulating the sebum production of the skin. This regulating ability will ensure that skin is hydrated properly without letting it get too oily or greasy. Spirulina also contains a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which can prevent skin from getting dry. It can even help treat skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
Apart from helping repair skin cells and fight off acne, Spirulina maxima extract can also brighten and tighten the skin. Taking supplements that contain Spirulina is beneficial for your complexion, but if you don't want to commit to that, you can simply get a good skin care product that has the ingredient in the formulation.
Spirulina maxima extract is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, C, E, and K. It also contains iron, phosphorus, potassium, copper, zinc, manganese, calcium, and selenium. All of these can help you achieve clear, toned skin.
There is no doubt that the Spirulina maxima extract works wonders for the skin whether it is used internally or externally. But Spirulina benefits aren't exclusive to the skin. Here are some other incredible benefits of this superfood:
