Reposted from @newellnd – Algae is currently a popular ingredient in skincare and while it does offer a number of pretty impressive benefits, algae can trigger and exacerbate acne.⠀Acne has so many triggers and algae is one of them.
Algae
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Types of Algae⠀
• Brown algae (chrommophyceae) – Contains high levels of iodine and fibre, and it is a good source of Vitamin C and E.⠀
• Green Algae (chlorophycea) – This contains large amounts of Vitamin C and Magnesium.⠀
• Red Algae (rhodophyceae) – Contains Beta Carotene and Protein.⠀
• Blue Algae (cyanophyceae) – This type of algae contains many B. Vitamins, along with Amino Acids, Polyunsaturated fats, Calcium and Protein.⠀
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In skincare, algae can help to regulate moisture balance in the different layers of the epidermis (our outer layer of skin).⠀
It works as a natural humectant providing a reserve of water in the tissues, locking water in the upper layers of the skin, keeping it supple and hydrated.⠀
Algae provides the skin with minerals and trace elements, essential nutrients that help our skin maintain and reinforce its natural functions.⠀
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Algae extracts are commonly found in acne products because they can reduce redness and purportedly normalize oil production and speed healing. ⠀
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Unfortunately, algae extracts are comedogenic (pore-clogging) because they penetrate the pore and accelerate the growth of micro-comedones (think of these as tiny baby pimples). Algae is also high in iodides, which can irritate the pore, triggering inflammation and the formation of pustules. I have found algae extracts reliably aggravate acne in those who are prone to it and can trigger it in those who have never had a problem with blemishes before.⠀
There so many masks and product with algae now. Learn to read labels. It can save your skin from these aggravators.
