Who would have thought that edible algae could spark a revolution in cosmetology? Japanese researchers have discovered that these blue-green organisms possess highly beneficial properties for the skin. This means that affordable, natural alternatives could replace expensive synthetic skincare products.
Aphanothece sacrum slows down skin aging.
It has long been known that dry skin is one of the reasons for its premature aging, which is why there are numerous moisturizing products available on the market. Thanks to a recent discovery by scientists, budget-friendly natural products may soon become available, all due to the ability of algae to synthesize saclipins A and B.
These special compounds absorb ultraviolet radiation, and the algae produce them in response to stress from drought. For their experiment, scientists dried Aphanothece sacrum, then ground it up and tested the reaction of human skin to the exposure of these organisms. It turned out that the substances stimulate the production of hyaluronic acid and collagen in cells, making the skin firm and hydrated.
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But the beneficial properties don’t stop there. In experiments on mice, saclipins demonstrated another ability – to inhibit the enzyme associated with melanin production. This, in turn, means that these algae can also be used for creating products against hyperpigmentation.
Therefore, if Aphanothece sacrum is cultivated on an industrial scale, it could provide a natural and cost-effective raw material for the future production of anti-aging cosmetics.
How to Care for Your Skin in Winter
However, while the production of these algae has not yet been industrialized, it is essential to moisturize the skin with available products to prolong its youthfulness.
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First, let's understand why skin dries out in winter. Even if you haven’t noticed this issue at other times of the year, you’ve probably observed that your hands and face require extra moisture in winter. The reason lies in the sharp temperature fluctuations, lack of sunlight, oxygen, and warmth, and cold winds... A whole range of unfavorable factors bombard delicate skin in winter. So how can you properly protect it?
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First of all, gentle cleansing is necessary. It is important not to overdo it while removing dead skin cells and to preserve the lipid barrier. Therefore, peels and scrubs should ideally be postponed until summer. It's better to wash with mineral water, and remove makeup with a non-alcoholic lotion, special milk, or toner. Cleansing products that come into contact with the skin of the hands should ideally contain glycerin and plant oils.
Secondly, special attention should be paid to hydration. All the creams we use in summer have a very light texture, making them unsuitable for winter. The cream should be thick and retain moisture. For this, it should contain glycerin, silicone, natural oils, and hyaluronic acid. It's also essential to humidify not just the skin but the air indoors as well.
Thirdly, extra caution is advised for problematic skin, as even routine procedures in winter can negatively affect its condition. The number of regular mattifying and drying masks should be reduced by half, and if the skin is oily, it is advisable to avoid creams containing paraffin and mineral oils.
Fourthly, don’t forget about the effects of ultraviolet rays. The skin suffers from them not only in summer but also in winter: sunlight reflecting off the snow can easily tan the face, so it is advisable to use a cream with SPF.
If you neglect your skin and let things take their course, a range of problems may arise, from a constant feeling of tightness due to dryness to the appearance of small blood vessels on the face, allergies to cold, and frostbite.