Jessica Turner From smoothies to skincare, Ashleigh Sharman discovers the skin boosting benefits of spirulina.
Spirulina (Spirulina Pretensis) is said to be a near-perfect food and has been making a stir in the SPA+CLINIC office of late, as we’ve been discovering ways to ingest and apply the protein-rich microscopic blue-green algae (much prettier than it sounds we promise!)
Rich in chlorophyll, vitamins A, E and C, minerals and amino acids, believed to nourish and rejuvenate the skin, what makes this one-celled wonder unique is that it stores energy as pure glycogen, requiring no digestion, thus providing an instant hit of energy when ingested and subsequently welcomed into the ‘super food’ hall of fame.
“Immune protective spirulina is considered one of the most nutritious plant-like organisms known to man,” Bounce nutritionist Teresa Boyce explains.
“This nutrient-dense super food is packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and there are many conditions that spirulina has been known to be effective against – fighting viral infections just one of them.”
However, it’s not just in our smoothies, on our breakfast bowls or packed in an energy ball that we’re receiving the benefits of spirulina.
Providing essential nutrients for healthy-looking skin and stimulating circulation for a brighter appearance, spirulina is the latest super food to find its way on the skincare ingredients list.
“The ultimate nutrient boost, spirulina provides a superior antioxidant treatment for face and body while promoting healthy radiant looking skin,” says Kim Thomasson, Education Manager for Kerstin Florian at BLC Cosmetics, of the key ingredient in the brand’s Rejuvenating Spirulina Masque.
Targeted at normal, dry and ageing skin, the masque can be applied as part of a professional wrap treatment for a complete thalassotherapy experience or as at-home after care, recommended once or twice a week.
No longer a secret belonging to the realm of professional skincare, Australian pharmacy brand Sukin recently launched its own Super Greens collection of spirulina-infused products including moisturiser, serum, scrub and masque.
“As a brand we see spirulina really only just beginning its life in skincare after having a great track record in the health and wellness industries,” Alison Goodger, Sukin Founder and CEO explains.
“It’s less of a fad’ ingredient than many other health trend ingredients/foods are but rather one that continues to perform and amaze in terms of physical health benefits.
“We are really only just scratching the surface in terms of what we know it can do and have combined the ingredient with actives like kale, parsley, chlorella, acai and goji berries.
“Being super food ingredients themselves, this blend really helps bring out the best in spirulina, ensuring that the skin is receiving a powerful tonic of antioxidants and vitamins.”
Whichever your preferred method – mixing up a smoothie in your clinic, applying a masque in your salon or offering an energy ball in your spa – this rich complex of vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, means clients can receive a daily spirulina injection of healthy complexion.
www.blccosmetics.com: www.sukinorganics.com: www.au.bouncelifestyle.com
