In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on holistic approaches to skincare, particularly regarding sun protection and skin cancer prevention. Among the various natural ingredients gaining attention for their potential benefits in skincare is red algae. Combined with the use of sunscreen, adopting a holistic approach to skincare can offer comprehensive protection against the harmful effects of UV radiation and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Understanding Red Algae:
Red algae is a diverse group of marine algae known for their vibrant red colour. Red algae contain a wealth of bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, peptides, pigments, and antioxidants, which contribute to their various health benefits.
Benefits of Red Algae in Skincare:
UV Protection: Red algae produce natural compounds that act as sunscreen agents, absorbing and scattering UV radiation to protect themselves from sun damage. These compounds, such as astaxanthin, have shown promise in providing UV protection for human skin as well.
Antioxidant Properties: Red algae are rich in antioxidants, which help neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress caused by UV exposure. Antioxidants help prevent premature ageing of the skin, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots, by preserving the skin's collagen and elastin fibres.
Hydration and Moisture Retention: The polysaccharides found in Red Algae have hydrating properties, helping to replenish moisture in the skin and maintain its natural barrier function. This can improve skin elasticity, smoothness, and overall complexion.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Red algae contain anti-inflammatory compounds that help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness, swelling, and sensitivity. This makes them beneficial for individuals with sunburn or other types of skin irritation.
Sunscreen and Skin Cancer Prevention:
While Red Algae offers natural UV protection, these products are not a substitute for sunscreen. Sunscreen remains the cornerstone of sun protection and skin cancer prevention. When used in combination with Red Algae-infused skincare products, sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB radiation.
Key Points for Sunscreen Use:
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it generously to all exposed skin areas.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.
Use sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days, as UV radiation can penetrate clouds and cause skin damage.
Apply sunscreen as the last step in your skincare routine, before makeup or other products.
Remember to cover often overlooked areas, such as the ears, neck, scalp, and tops of the feet.
Holistic Skincare Approach:
Incorporating red algae-infused skincare products into your daily routine can complement the protective effects of sunscreen and promote overall skin health.
Red Algae Recovery & Repair Gel: Our best-selling Red Algae gel. Tackles blemishes, redness, pigmentation, dry skin, fine lines, and wrinkles all while intensely nourishing and moisturising the skin. It’s made with Chamomile, Calendula and Jojoba Oil to soothe the skin. It’s rich in natural antioxidants, while providing unparalleled moisture and nourishing the skin with vitamins and minerals. And, when combined with sunscreen it can amplify the benefits and protection against free radicals and the sun’s ultraviolet rays. You can shop our gel here.
Here are some of our favourite sunscreens:
Ultraviolette Queen Screen SPF 50 - £36
Coming in at £36 per bottle, this is the most luxurious of the sun creams. But, who says we shouldn’t indulge ourselves from time to time? This luminous, light-weight sunscreen is perfect for everyday wear. It even has the delicate scent of rose and comes in a bottle that makes the perfect shelfie.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMNE 400 Hydrating Sun Cream SPF 50 - £18
Slightly thicker than the Ultraviolette and just as potent. The special MEXORYL400 filter technology, helps to defend against UVA, UVB and Ultra Long UVA rays. Perfect to wear alone or under make-up.
Altruist Face Fluid SPF 50 - £9
At £9 per bottle, you really can’t go wrong. Created by a leading skin dermatologist, this fragrance free, lightweight SPF has it all. Delivering broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation, and enriched with vitamin E to prevent cellular damage from UV induced free radicals and reactive oxygen species.
