Benefits of microalgae in cosmetics
Microalgae stand out for their extraordinary metabolic capacity: they synthesise carotenoids with high antioxidant power, hydrating polysaccharides, fatty acids (omega 3 and 6) with structural functions and other compounds with anti-inflammatory activity and protection against oxidative or light-induced stress. Thanks to this, they are consolidated as an extremely versatile bioactive platform:- They enable the design of natural photoprotection solutions thanks to molecules such as astaxanthin or scytonemin, with powerful antioxidant activity and protection against UV/HEV radiation;
- They provide hydration and reinforcement of the skin barrier through sulphated polysaccharides from red and green microalgae, with strong water-binding effect and film-forming properties;
- They contribute to well-aging through peptides and carotenoids capable of activating cellular pathways related to DNA protection and tissue repair;
- In addition, they open the door to nutricosmetic strategies based on matrices rich in omega-3/6/9 fatty acids, vitamins and phytonutrients
Which are the types of microalgae with the greatest potential in cosmetics?
In cosmetic formulation, microalgae and derivatives such as Chlorella, Spirulina (Arthrospira), Dunaliella, Nannochloropsis, Tetraselmis or diatoms such as Phaeodactylum are already used, due to their profile of carotenoids, lipids, polysaccharides and protein fractions.Chlorella vulgaris and Haematococcus pluvialis
- Key components: peptides, essential amino acids and carotenoids, especially astaxanthin in the case of Haematococcus pluvialis.
- Applications: anti-ageing serums and creams focused on oxidative stress
Brown algae (Class Heterokontophyta/Haptophyta): Phaeodactylum tricornutum, Thalassiosira sp.
- Key components: proteins in high concentration, vitamin B12, iron and fatty acids such as GLA. Phycocyanin, with its intense blue colour, stands out for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.
- Applications: energising or illuminating products and skin barrier treatments.
