Following on from our recent 10 Wonders of Seaweed series Part 1, read on to learn more about the incredible features of our favourite marine plant!
6 It's a naturally powerful hydrator
Seaweed is full of humectants that draw in moisture from the environment. It contains high levels of essential fatty acids and polysaccharides such as alginic acid, which help to protect our skin barrier and lock in moisture. Cellulose is also found in the cell wall of seaweed and is known as the most abundant and renewable organic polymer in the world. It has a high moisture content, making it an ideal carrier to deliver hydrating compounds to the skin. Amino acids found in seaweeds are also hydrating as they prevent water loss in the skin and therefore retain moisture.
7 It delivers results for all skin types
As a powerful hydrator, seaweed is perfect for adding moisture to dry skin. It also offers excellent benefits for ageing skin, with its antioxidant, collagen and hyaluronic acid stimulatory properties helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. For acne-prone skin, seaweed is effective as it contains natural anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Lastly, it can also benefit oily skin with its ability to control sebum levels, avoiding over-production of oil in the skin.
8 Our skin recognises its beneficial components
Seaweed is a natural marine substance (70 - 90% of it is water, depending on species), and our bodies are around 60% water, which means we recognise and work together with similar natural substances better than synthetic. Polysaccharides, molecules found in both our skin and seaweed, are good for moisture retention and hydration. The polysaccharides in our skin are similar in structure to those found in seaweed which allows our skin to form a stronger bond with these molecules compared to other moisturising agents.
9 It's extremely resilient
As a marine plant, seaweed is extremely resilient as it naturally faces sun, wind and water exposure and varying environmental factors. It is naturally rich in antioxidant polyphenols, which protect against free-radicals in the environment. What makes Hebridean seaweed extract so special though? Well, studies have found that seaweed from cold water environments contains higher levels of fucoxanthin and omega 3-fatty acids than seaweed from warmer climates. The Outer Hebrides also has some of the cleanest waters in the world, allowing seaweed to flourish in an unpolluted, mineral rich environment.
10 It's sustainable
We allow nature to replenish her stocks by rotating our hand-harvesting locations and only taking what we need. Our team carries out weekly trips to local shorelines to freshly collect four types of seaweed that are vital to our results-driven skincare. As a marine plant, seaweed does not need soil, fresh water or fertiliser to grow; it is completely self-sufficient, nutrient-dense and grows rapidly year-round.
Shop our organic seaweed skincare here.
