Did you know that Seaweed was the most popular skincare ingredient in 2024?

No? Well then let us introduce you to:

“Seaweeds – The Anti-aging Miracle from the Ocean.”

Algae or seaweed (particularly brown seaweed) is not a new beauty ingredient. But the resurgence of this incredible ingredient is now driven by two of the latest researches, which highlight its efficacy in skin barrier function, anti-aging, anti-melanogenesis, and overall skin health.

At Puraveda Organics, we have formulated six key [solution-oriented] formulas made of marine seaweeds, minerals, and powerful botanicals – all freshly sealed-packed with a promise of improved skin health.

Let’s dive in:

What are Seaweeds or Algae?

Our globe’s oceans are rich in diversity and 91% of their secrets are yet to be discovered. In many cultures, especially in Korea and Japan, various seaweeds have been cultivated from the oceans, rivers, and lakes for their incredible skin-soothing properties for many centuries.

From kale to bladderwrack, ‘Seaweed’ is an umbrella term for several marine plants and algae. Today, about 13 species of seaweed (particularly, ‘Macroalgae’) are used in the skincare industry. These multicellular organisms fit into three categories: Brown algae (Phaeophyceae), Red algae (Rhodophyceae), and Green algae (Chlorophyceae). Seaweeds usually grow in the sea but can be sustainably farmed in inland waters (rivers and lakes) and on land.

The ability of these organisms to sustain and grow in extreme habitats reflects the properties for healing and regeneration that it can bring to your skin. As an example, most seaweeds withstand and flourish in not only high, tumultuous tides but can also survive in extremely harsh conditions such as high salinity(salt), ultraviolet radiation, heat, and cold.

The Benefits of Marine Seaweeds for Your Skin

With its proven self-healing potential, seaweed benefits every skin type; oily, sensitive, dry, and combination skin.

Compared to terrestrial plants, seaweeds are 10X times more concentrated in bioactives like fucoidan, fucosterols, fucoxanthin, polysaccharides, and antioxidants. These compounds are highly valued in the skincare world for their anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and free-radical scavenging properties.

Strengthens Skin Barrier: Seaweeds are rich in minerals like calcium, potassium, sodium, and magnesium. These help in reinforcing the- all important pH barrier, which protects your skin from a host of environmental stressors.

Anti-aging Effects: Did you know? Some brown algae species can very effectively stimulate the Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) responsible for maintaining tissue homeostasis. EGF is indispensable for regulating the survival, migration, and production of new skin cells, which eventually delays the appearance of signs of aging. Seaweeds with amino acids like glycine and vitamins promote collagen production.

Improves Complexion: Well-known for their anti-melanogenesis effect, seaweeds can regulate how the skin pigment ‘melanin’ is transported into the skin. Thus, it reduces dark spots or hyperpigmentation and restores an even complexion. Calcium carbonates, and other minerals in algae are used in exfoliators to remove dead skin cells and brighten complexion.

Hydrates: Algae usually exist in tidal plains so they have excellent humectant properties (the ability to retain water). Algae can also replenish the compromised hyaluronic acid content that comes with aging and exposure to harsh environmental factors. Rich in polysaccharides (like alginate and fucoidan..also superior humectants) and essential fatty acids, seaweeds lock in moisture and hold water onto the skin for a long time.

Protects against UV-damage: Seaweeds survive in both harsh sunlight and very dark environments under the sea. They have protective free-radical scavenging bioactives that shield skin from UV rays, pollution, and external aggressors.

Heals Sensitive Skin: Natural minerals like Zinc and Magnesium and algae metabolites have been well-researched for their ability to heal sensitive skin and reduce the frequency of flares associated with acne and rosacea. With negligible cytotoxicity (cellular toxins), algae are not known to produce reverse reactions or side effects.

Seaweeds, Bladderwrack, and Puraveda Organics

Out of all the amazing seaweeds in nature, brown algae is clinically proven to be the most beneficial for your skin. We use Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) – a brown macroalgae – in six, skin-transforming formulas. These macroalgae have been sustainably sourced using ‘blue technology’ / eco-friendly bioprocessing technique in small batches from the coasts of the Baltic Sea, the Atlantic, and the Pacific Ocean.

Here’s how Bladderwrack seaweed (learn more) works on your skin:

BioScience Peptide Complex: Promotes cellular turnover by improving collagen production by up to 228% (retinol can do only up to 190%!). Working synergistically with peptides, the actives in Bladderwrack improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet, and other signs of aging. Tightens skin and improves facial volume.

SBR Serum: Besides anti-aging effects, minerals and anti-inflammatory compounds in Bladderwrack reduce redness and soothe inflamed skin. It reduces the population of pathogenic microorganisms (like Demodex mites – learn more) from the skin surface and strengthens the skin barrier. Vitamin B-complex calms skin irritation.

Daily Hydrator/ Toner: The Phlorotannins in seaweed / Bladderwrack are active detoxifying agents that protect the skin from harsh environmental conditions. Effectively removes the last traces of grime. Along with polysaccharides, bladderwrack keeps skin hydrated and promotes skin softness.

Pore Perfect Hydrator/Toner: High sulfur content in Bladderwrack absorbs excess oil (or sebum) and improves complexion.

SBR Cleanser: Removes excess microbial (Demodex mites) overload without compromising on your skin barrier. Gently exfoliates the skin.

On the Spot Blemish Treatment (Day/Night): Coupled with the power of clay and earth minerals, our blemish treatment with marine seaweed/ bladderwrack refines blocked pores. Actives like Vitamin B-complex and Zinc treat acne at its source and help dry out acne or pimples quickly.

Marine Seaweeds and Future in Skincare

If you are an esthetician, spa professional, dermatologist, or anyone interested in anti-aging skincare, it is time to introduce yourself/your clients to a seaweed-infused skincare regimen. When seaweeds and peptides are used in combination, they give results far superior to retinol and very similar to Botox^TM – just more gradually, and without the expense/time/pain of an office treatment for injections!

Marine seaweeds are safe for daily application. Do note that our ingredients have a high level of purity (free of heavy metals, pesticides, and toxins), which is essential to extract the maximum benefits from algae.

Browse our catalog or take the PVO Dosha Quiz to find out the most rewarding products with marine seaweeds according to your skin requirements.