Chlorella Benefits for Skin: Growth Factor of Chlorella (Where Can I Buy)
If you’ve ever been to a department store, chances are you’ve considered sampling products from the skincare brand La Mer while strolling down the beauty aisles. The legendary brand is best known for its focus on various kinds of marine ingredients to promote beautiful skin.
But, La Mer isn’t the only brand harnessing the powers of marine-sourced ingredients. You can also find them featured in products from best-selling brands like Algenist and SkinCeuticals. Spoiler alert: Even we at Taut are proud to feature skin care with marine-sourced ingredients. So, why are brands including marine ingredients, like chlorella, in their formulas?
Different types of algae, like chlorella, have been proven to have incredible effects on the skin, helping to diminish signs of aging while also replenishing hydration to plump up the skin for a more youthful look. Let’s dive in (pun intended) for a more thorough look into marine ingredients and chlorella benefits for skin.
First, What Is Algae & Chlorella?
The term algae encompasses both giant types of sea kelp easily identifiable by the eye to more microscopic, tiny versions. Macroalgae are basically chlorophyll-filled organisms abundant in the ocean. It’s estimated that there are around 70,000 species of macro and microalgae, but skincare companies tend to focus on the most common types. Macro and microalgae have also been used as thickening agents in skincare and other industries, but in recent years, a few specific types of macroalgae have emerged that are believed to have incredible skincare benefits. This is because they are considered to be a superfood rich in nutrients like omega 3s, chlorophyll, amino acids, and vitamins.
Some of the most common types of macro and microalgae, such as seaweed, spirulina, and chlorella, are currently becoming more and more popular in use in the skincare industry. Consequently, more and more studies are being done to determine exactly how helpful these marine ingredients can be for the skin's health.
Different Types of Micro & Macroalgae
There are two main types: Macroalgae and Microalgae. Both can be found in skincare. Macroalgae – also known more popularly as seaweed, includes brown (sea kelp), red, and green versions (due to the high chlorophyll content). The best example of macroalgae used in skincare is the kind used in La Mer beauty products.
However, in La Mer, it’s not just the ingredients used but the fermentation technique itself that matters. Fermentation breaks down the cell wall of the seaweed, to allow for easier and better absorption into the skin. Still, there is evidence that sea kelp and other types of seaweed can be helpful for certain dermal issues.
In a study, an amino acid-enriched giant kelp extract used on dermal explants was shown to help preserve and protect skin while also preventing the early signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles.1
Another study evaluated the water retention factors of three types of macroalgae as compared to hyaluronic acid (a substance that can retain 1,000 times its weight in water and helps plump up the skin and moisturize it). The brown macroalgae extract from the study was found to have the lowest molecular weight and retain the most amount of water, making it a potentially great ingredient to help increase hydration in the body and skin.2
Further studies will be helpful in discovering exactly how seaweed can help improve the appearance and health of the skin to make it look more youthful and prevent or treat signs of aging.
Spirulina
Spirulina is technically cyanobacteria (single-celled microbes) that grow in fresh and saltwater. They are more commonly referred to as blue-green algae, however. Spirulina is a superfood that has a lot of nutrients to boost the immune system, including amino acids, copper, iron, chlorophyll, omega 3s, and vitamins B1, B2, and B3. The chlorophyll in this superfood is also rich in age-fighting vitamins and nutrients.
Spirulina also has smaller amounts of pretty much every nutrient, making it one of the most nutritious foods in the world. It was eaten by ancient Aztecs and, more recently, has been proposed as a food source for astronauts.
Nowadays, it’s easy to find spirulina supplements, especially since spirulina may help promote hair growth and balance blood sugars, and in turn, help assist with weight loss.
As far as a topical application and use in skincare, spirulina has shown promise. It has been proven to have a positive impact on wound healing and is a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants are incredibly important in skincare because they scavenge and fight free radical damage, which is caused by unstable atoms that can be extremely damaging to cells throughout the body, including skin cells.
Free radicals can cause collagen degradation, leading to the appearance of wrinkles and sagging (nobody wants that!). So, you can imagine why it’s critical to stop free radicals in their tracks as a way to prevent the manifestation of the most common signs of aging.
At Taut, we're big on warding off free radicals which is why we are proud to offer our customers our LAC Masquelier® French Pine Bark OPC, a powerful antioxidant supplement that helps heal the body thanks to its antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic properties.
Chlorella
Chlorella is definitely one of the most popular cosmetic ingredients in the world that you need to include in your life right now. Chlorella is a superfood that is often mentioned alongside spirulina because it is another type of green algae. Chlorella is also a single-celled organism that’s found in freshwater.
But, what makes chlorella such a powerhouse superfood ingredient for the body, skin, and hair? Well, chlorella is an immune system-booster and detox essential that helps remove toxins and heavy metals from the body.
More helpful reading: Skin detoxification diet.
Chlorella contains vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for the human body, skin, and hair. Chlorella is also full of amino acids, vitamin B12, iron, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, chlorophyll, fiber, calcium, potassium, and folic acid.
If you’re taking chlorella, you’re probably looking to make the most of the rejuvenating powers of Chlorella Growth Factor for skin. Chlorella contains a high concentration of nucleic acids (RNA and DNA) and promotes cellular production and regeneration.
There are many Chlorella Growth Factor benefits for skin, one being the ability to repair dermal damage for a healthier, younger-looking complexion. Additionally, when it comes to dermal health, chlorella can enhance the skin by fighting signs of sun damage and reducing the appearance of spider veins.
More helpful reading by RenewSkin Inc.: Foods for healthy skin.
Benefits of Chlorella For Well-Being
Naturally, chlorella is considered a superfood because of its many health benefits. Although this superfood hasn’t been proven by the Food and Drug Administration to prevent any disease, some of the health benefits of chlorella include its ability to:
- Boost the immune system
- Treat, cure, or prevent acne and other dermal issues
- Detox heavy metals from the body
- Prevent hair loss and promote hair regrowth
- Support weight loss and lower body fat percentage
- Balance blood sugars and lower blood pressure
Chlorella Supplements & Chlorella Powder
Just like spirulina, many women taking chlorella supplements naturally expect to reap all of the superfood's incredible health benefits. You might wonder ‘Where can I buy chlorella?’ Benefits for skin health and overall health are widely recognized by many of the most popular supplement companies, which is why it’s easy to find chlorella in pill form at health-food stores. It's important to note that the Food and Drug Administration doesn't regulate these chlorella supplements like other drugs, so make sure that you're buying from a reputable source.
Nowadays, you can also find chlorella powder which can be added to the foods you enjoy every day, like in your morning smoothie. It’s easy to find chlorella powder, and because of its beauty benefits, you can often find it at some of the biggest cosmetics retailers.
When taking chlorella, you might be surprised by its strong bitter, earthy flavor. So, when preparing it, you'll want to pair it with other strong ingredients to mask the flavor. Not only will chlorella powder provide you with your daily dose of antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids, but the chlorophyll will give your beverage an aesthetically-pleasing, Instagram-worthy appearance.
Although chlorella most likely won’t cause any serious side effects in the body, if you take chlorella daily (as a chlorella supplement or in powder form), you might feel some side effects, such as skin sensitivity, within the first two weeks of continual use. Other rare side effects from chlorella can include an upset stomach, cramping, and nausea.
Topical Forms of Chlorella
Other than taking chlorella supplements, if you’re looking to use chlorella for skin benefits specifically, it can be applied topically. In fact, today, you can find chlorella featured cosmetics like serums, moisturizers, and face masks.
Meanwhile, wound healing action is another benefit of taking chlorella. In studies, chlorella skin benefits have included healing wounds and decreasing or eliminating dermal inflammation.3 This is significant because inflammation can lead to all sorts of problems, including concerns like acne.
Other chlorella benefits include the ability to even skin tone and keep the skin on the face and body firm, healthy, and looking its best. According to Joshua Zeichner, MD, in his interview with Fashionista.com he said that while originally used as a nutritional supplement, chlorella is being used more and more in skincare because of its antioxidant properties.4 He continued to explain that applying vitamins topically has a variety of skin benefits that you can't enjoy by consuming high amounts orally. In fact, chlorella is packed with magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins, all of which reduce inflammation of the skin and promote overall healthy dermis function.
Seaweed and Chlorella Benefits to the Skin
While macro and microalgae (like spirulina and chlorella) can have benefits in the body ranging from lowering blood pressure to aiding with weight loss, our major focus is on how these ingredients and their vitamins can have a positive impact on the skin. Below you'll find some of the main benefits that you can expect after including chlorella and other types of macro and microalgae into your life.
Chlorella For Dermal Health
Skincare that contains chlorella can be used to protect the epidermis of all skin types to keep it looking and feeling its best. As previously noted, chlorella is packed with a wide range of antioxidants that will fight off free radical damage in the body and the effects of pollution to promote healthy skin and a beautiful appearance.
Antioxidants protect the skin from further damage in addition to helping treat existing signs of aging. They are imperative to have in your life and your skincare arsenal if you don't want your skin and body to succumb to further damage from things like sun exposure and other environmental factors, like pollution, and lifestyle vices, like smoking. Adding a chlorella supplement or topical cream to your daily routine can help you achieve that healthy-looking glow and appearance.
Macroalgae, Chlorella, & Dermal Lightening
More and more people want cosmetics that have skin-brightening benefits because as people age, they are more likely to develop dark spots and sun damage on their body from prolonged exposure to the sun, pollution, and heavy metals. These dark spots can also be effects of acne scarring or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. According to Jennifer Vickers, MD, in her conversation with TheZoeReport.com she said that blue, red, brown, and green macroalgae can help brighten the dermis.5
Brown and green macroalgae, in particular, are loaded with vitamin C, which is known for its tyrosinase-inhibiting abilities. Tyrosinase is an enzyme that promotes melanin production in the skin, thereby leading to discoloration and dark spots.
Whether applied topically or taken as a supplement, chlorella can also be effective when it comes to lightening the skin by reducing pigmentation caused by the overproduction of melanin from exposure to the sun and pollution as we age. And, chlorella can be especially helpful when treating dark circles around the eyes.
Trust us, at Taut, we know all about dark spots which is why we created our Taut Bright Bye-Bye Dark Spots. This is our proprietary blend of seven powerful antioxidants that are clinically proven to fade age spots, hyperpigmentation, and lighten the skin naturally.
Prevention of Dermal Protozoan Diseases
Thanks to strong antibiotic tendencies, certain types of macro and microalgae can help prevent dermal protozoan diseases. Protozoa are infectious agents that can negatively impact the skin, leading to various infections.
For example, red macroalgae species, laurencia rigida, were studied and they both showed antibacterial and antifungal activity.6 Marine resources show a lot of potential in this area, and further research is needed, but there is a promise that different types of macro and microalgae, such as chlorella, can be beneficial thanks to their strong antibacterial powers. You never know, but this can even provide potential benefits when it comes to acne treatment since inflammatory acne is also caused by bacteria.
Moisturizing with Chlorella & Marine Ingredients
Spirulina, for one, has excellent moisture-retaining abilities for all skin types. By helping the skin retain moisture, this microalgae can keep the skin looking smooth and supple. The drier the skin is, the more likely it is to develop fine lines. Over time, if the skin is not properly hydrated regularly, it will begin to develop even deeper wrinkles that won’t be easily plumped up.
This is a reason why skincare experts recommend daily hydration even if your skin is oily. Although natural oiliness in the skin will keep wrinkles at bay for a time, it won’t last forever. As we age, the skin just naturally becomes drier as well. Cosmetics enriched with macro and microalgae, like seaweed and chlorella, can help your skin maintain its moisture and prevent wrinkles for longer.
Chlorella & Marine Ingredients For Anti-Aging
Dr. Jennifer Vickers, a board-certified dermatologist, says that macroalgae can be anti-aging because of their ability to stop the enzymes that break down dermis collagen. Macroalgae also have the ability to reduce hyaluronic acid breakdown within the skin, promoting suppleness and moisture.6
Both collagen and hyaluronic acid are naturally found in the dermis, but they gradually diminish with age. This is why we begin to develop wrinkles, fine lines, and overall sagging the older we get. Marine ingredients help prevent the breakdown of both collagen and hyaluronic acid, which can go a very long way in preventing telltale signs of aging even as the birthdays pile up year after year.
Additionally, women who have experienced significant weight loss may also show signs of premature aging such as an increase in sagging skin and wrinkles. In this case, marine ingredients, such as chlorella, may be beneficial as well.
Beauty Products Containing Microalgae and Chlorella
It’s really no wonder, then, that we continue to see more and more cosmetics pop up listing microalgae, macroalgae, and chlorella as key ingredients. Besides La Mer, there are quite a few other brands with micro and macroalgae extracts in their ingredients list, and chlorella is also a popular feature in many Korean skincare brands and cosmetics as well. Here are a few skincare products that can be used on your face and body that you can try if you’re interested in reaping the benefits of chlorella and all of the various forms of seaweed.
Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum
Sunday Riley is a very popular and beloved skincare line currently on the market, with cult-favorite hits like Good Genes among its offerings. This particular retinoid serum includes blue-green microalgae because of its ability to fight signs of aging and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps to promote skin renewal for a more radiant complexion.
Nannette de Gaspe Bio-Stimulant Techstile Infusing Dry Masque Neck
This neck mask contains spirulina to help improve the dermis’ elasticity and firmness while also reducing the appearance of lines. Our necks often go neglected as we focus so much attention on our faces, but with this mask, you can ensure that you are providing some love and care to this area, which can show age quite badly.
Zelens Marine Complex Deep Restorative Cream
A good moisturizer is so important to have in every skincare routine, obviously. This beauty product is full of marine ingredients that will soften the dermis, minimize wrinkle appearance, and promote a youthful look with regular use. The dermis is fully hydrated as firmness and elasticity are also given a boost.
Ocean-Sourced, Skin-Loving Skincare
It’s not all about algae and chlorella as we look to the ocean for skin-enhancing ingredients. A popular, tested, tried-and-true sea ingredient that can also work wonders on your complexion and all over your body is marine collagen. Marine collagen is sourced from fish. It is ingested orally to promote gorgeous skin from within. Several studies show that when drinkable collagen supplements are taken orally they can have enormous benefits for the skin, including improving firmness and elasticity. Collagen can also improve moisture retention so that wrinkles are plumped up and less visible.
Even if you don’t yet have wrinkles or other signs of aging, including collagen supplements in your life can help prevent the appearance of fine lines in the future. You can think of your skin like a mattress that loses its firmness and spring, only getting softer and more hollow over time.
Marine collagen ingestion helps boost collagen production throughout your body by triggering fibroblasts, which are specialized cells crucial to collagen formation.
Reap the Benefits With Taut's Premium Collagen Intense Transformation Program
More evidence continues to amass showing the amazing benefits of marine collagen. If you’re interested in giving it a try to see exactly what marine-sourced ingredients can do, check out Taut’s Premium Collagen Intense Transformation Program. Our transformation program is widely regarded as one of the most natural and effective solutions for your skin and body to combat the signs of aging from within.
Each serving contains a high concentration (13,000mg) of marine collagen provided by wild-caught red snapper fish sourced from the Indian Ocean. Our collagen drink also contains elastin peptides, hyaluronic acid, grape seed extract, and vitamin C. Together, these ingredients team up like the Avengers to fight off signs of aging and keep your skin looking and feeling youthful for a long time.
Elastin peptides promote elasticity to keep skin firm, while hyaluronic acid is essential for helping skin retain moisture so that fewer wrinkles form over time. Grape seed extract is a powerful antioxidant and vitamin C further boosts the formation of collagen in the body.
All in all, you really can’t go wrong when giving this remarkable skin care product a try - whether you choose to slather a macroalgae-based skincare product on your face or not.
If you’re now interested in harnessing the healing powers of the sea to visibly revitalize the appearance of your skin, consider consuming marine collagen daily (it’s backed by science!) and round it out with topical skincare treatments that are also proven by research - the ultimate double-whammy for gorgeous, firm skin!
To learn more about the benefits of chlorella for skin, check out this link:
https://essencz.com/dietnutrition/chlorella-benefits-for-skin/
References:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29797450/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6266229/
- https://www.scielo.br/pdf/pboci/v20/1519-0501-pboci-20-e5012.pdf
- https://fashionista.com/2018/08/chlorella-algae-skin-care-benefits-products
- https://www.thezoereport.com/p/9-algae-skin-benefits-you-need-to-know-about-17126596
- https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/08927019609386281
