While the thought of putting slimy, green seaweed on a client’s face may not sound so appealing, marine seaweed, also referred to as alga, has become the ingredient of choice in skin care today. More than likely, clients have been using it for some time without even realizing it. Everything from facial cleansers and toners to serums and night creams touts some variation of this power-packed species from the sea. Algae are amazing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying agents. They are full of proteins, amino acids, and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, copper, selenium, and manganese. Algae are also wonderful for moisture retention, collagen renewal, and evening out skin tone. The benefits of algae date back to centuries ago when women in France underwent thalalassotherapy, a type of restorative, anti-aging, and slimming treatment made from mineral-rich seaweed. The seaweed made their skin feel tight.It is important to note that, while there are more than 20,000 species of algae, they are not all created equal. Where the alga is harvested and how it is processed determines its purity. The colder and less polluted the water, the higher quality the alga.Algae are classified into four separate color categories: green, red, blue, and brown. Green algae contain high amounts of vitamin C and magnesium. Red algae contain protein and beta-carotene. Blue algae are packed with B vitamins, calcium, amino acids, and protein. Lastly, brown algae contain high levels of vitamins C and E and iodine, brighten the skin, and act as a natural SPF.Even the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite, who rose from the water, according to legend, credited her luminous beauty to the plants of the sea. Now that is a glowing endorsement for the power of algae, if there ever was one!Want to read more? Subscribe to one of our monthly plans to continue reading this article.