Skin care products derived from the sea
For decades, beauty companies have turned to the seas to help us achieve smooth, glowing skin. One of the most famous examples is La Mer, founded in 1965 by astrophysicist Max Huber. A blend of ingredients based on seafood and sustainably grown kale. This March, La Mer will relaunch the Hydrating Soft Cream, a lighter version of its great offering.
So, is there any science to support the idea that marine ingredients have the power to save the skin? Yes, says dermatologist Patricia Ferris, MD, assistant professor of clinical practice at Tulane University and a skin care and cosmetology expert: "Brown and red algae and spirulina are rich in protective antioxidants that can be very beneficial." Dr. Like a team of marine superheroes, each strain has unique properties aimed at addressing different skin concerns, Faris says. Red algae are rich in carotenoids called astaxanthin, while their brown cousins are rich in skin-lightening phlorotannins and a moisturizing polysaccharide called alginate. (Studies show that this type of marine carbohydrate can help reduce hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, dry skin, and even skin cancer.)
A biotech company in San Francisco found something similar while studying microalgae for use as biofuel. "Scientists discovered a polysaccharide compound known as alguronic acid and found that it helps increase skin cell turnover, increase skin elasticity and reduce fine lines," says Algenist's vice president of product development, which founded the skincare brand. In 2011, this company. Alguronic acid is now at the heart of all Algenist products. Other brands that use seaweed and the power of seaweed include BioSense, Mara, Osea and One Ocean Beauty.
Restorative hydrotherapy procedures
If you prefer more spas, many revolve around hydrotherapy (or water therapy), which involves using the temperature, pressure and circulation of water to achieve pleasure. These treatments "can help reduce muscle tension, stress and pain," says Nicky Miller, director of Kohler Waters Spa, which recently introduced the Tranquil Bath, a bath with sublimated seawater, essential oils and chromotherapy. Le Spa at Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa has debuted a unique immersive experience based on the Janzu concept, an aquatic therapy where guests are immersed in water and guided by the therapist's rhythmic movements. "This treatment includes the concept of reconnecting with water as the source and essence of life and can be carried out in our infinity pool, our private pool or our sheltered bay where the surf is calm," explains Sebastien Mengaard, regional general manager of Le. Barthelemy. This is nothing new: in ancient Rome and Greece, baths were centers of relaxation and socialization and played an important role in eliminating disease-causing microbes. (The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a more modern example.)
But some waters have almost mythical properties. In the French village of La Roche-Posay, mineral-rich springs have led to a thermal spa to treat patients with eczema, psoriasis and burns. Similar facilities exist in Vichy and Aven in France, proving that the idea of H2O as a healer is one that needs serious attention.