Spirulina is great for the skin. Not many know this little fact and so today, we are going to shed some light on this specific type of algae which I use to color soap green.
In history, Spirulina has been consumed for hundreds of years and though this powder can be found in health stores, it's slowly being introduced at supermarkets as well. One can get this blue-green product in powdered form. but one must be careful when buying this powder since there is a large demand for it, and because of that, labs are making a synthetic version of it. So, when buying, like everything else, I encourage reading the label.
But what is this powder good for? Let us dive into the splendid world of Spirulina.
When it comes to the skin, Spirulina is loaded with benefits that many do not know. Beta-Carotene, B Vitamins, Vitamins E, C, Manganese, Amino Acids. All of which make a super food for the skin. Spirulina contains phycocyanin, a protein that helps the algae photosynthesize light. It contains a blue pigment and is often used as a natural colorant. Since phycocyanin interacts with light and pigments, Spirulina can be used to even your skin tone and can be used as a sunscreen preventing cell death in healthy skin cells when exposed to UV rays.
Spirulina is rich in nutritious, health-supported compounds which make these algae one of the best ingredients for dry skin.
Vitamin E – A potent skin protector and one of my favorite vitamins, is naturally produced in skin sebum (in simple terms skin oil). Topically, it increases the body’s natural ability to fight negative effects of UV rays.
Vitamin C – A great multi-tasker, vitamin c boasts collagen production, repairs and moisturizes skin and acts as a natural sunscreen.
Beta-carotene – With powerful antioxidant properties, helps prompt the production of vitamin A, and is just one of the provitamins found in Spirulina.
Based on the information above, Spirulina can remedy dark spots, evening complexions, and help alleviate under-eye dark circles.
Because of the antioxidant and antibacterial properties, spirulina can be effective in treating acne. Promoting healthy skin cell metabolism allows skin cells to heal faster and prevent bacteria, thus reducing opportunities for acne to form and helping maintain healthy pH levels which can reduce flare-ups on the skin.
Spirulina can help different skin types. A very recent study back in 2020 revealed that spirulina treats psoriasis and eczema because of the fatty acids and antioxidant properties which reduce inflammation in skin, helping to curb these skin conditions.
Like everything I talk about, I always promote education. Do your research when you want to try something new. I’m here to help all of you, but I can only do so much. Each person is different, skin types, allergies, reactions, and so forth, so it's important for each of you to research what works for you.
