What is Spirulina?
Spirulina is an ancient algae, said to have been around for billions of years. It’s also known as one of the most nutritional superfoods in the world. Blueish-green in colour, this cyanobacteria was even a staple in the ancient Aztec diet. Often sourced from freshwater lakes, you will typically find spirulina in the form of powder and tablet supplements.
Spirulina for Skin Health
Spirulina is made up of proteins and lipids such as γ-linolenic acid[1], a form of omega 6 which is extremely beneficial for calming down inflammation and soothing acne, psoriasis and eczema[2]. It’s also enriched with minerals such as zinc, magnesium and B vitamins to name a few. Its ability to combat inflammation means it reduces cellular oxidative stress while increasing cell turnover and detoxifying congested skin.
It’s a wonder if there is anything that this powerhouse ingredient cannot do. Not only has research acknowledged spirulina’s wound healing properties, it’s also a fantastic ingredient for overall skin barrier health, reducing TEWL (trans epidermal water loss), aiding the skin in maintaining its hydration.
It also has antioxidant properties which are associated with anti-ageing. Literature has noted that spirulina has the potential to brighten the skin, reduce hyperpigmentation and reduce photoaging damage to the dermis (the second layer of the skin).
Due to its natural levels of phytonutrients and peptides, spirulina is a key ingredient for promoting collagen production for plump, youthful looking, healthy skin[3].
Our Founder, Danielle loves the healing benefits of spirulina which helped to inspire the Serene Green Clay Mask by Jierra Beauty. It’s a calming, soothing mask that works to cleanse, brighten, hydrate and relieve irritated and compromised skin. What makes it even more special is that unlike other clay masks, it’s not drying as it’s enriched with coconut milk and colloidal oats which work to condition the skin. The addition of organic chamomile adds that relaxing spa at home feeling to help with your well-being, as we believe that having a skincare routine gives you the opportunity to relieve your stresses and put your own therapeutic ritual into practice.
Sustainability of Spirulina
Due to its production chain, spirulina is said to be incredibly sustainable. Spirulina can be easily grown whilst using minimal soil and water and in addition, does not need pesticides in the process which is a plus! You can be assured that when it comes to producing spirulina, there is minimal waste involved, as the entire algae is used, in comparison to other plants where stems, leaves and the like are thrown away.