As the popularity of this ingredient grows, seaweed appears to be finding more and more use in the beauty industry.
This is because seaweed contains a unique range of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that have different beneficial effects on hair and skin.
The Cornish Seaweed Bath Company, which makes its products from seaweed off the coast of Cornwall, explains: “Seaweed is rich in vitamins (A, C, E and K), minerals (iodine, calcium, iron and zinc) and amino acids which nourish the scalp and hair, promoting healthy hair growth.”
The superfood also supports scalp health thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that soothe and cleanse.
Seaweed has several properties that soothe and cleanse the scalp
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Ultimately, they target the skin problems that become more common as the colder months begin.
One of the main benefits is the moisture that comes from the algae’s natural polysaccharides.
“The natural polysaccharides in seaweed help retain moisture, which can make hair softer, smoother and easier to style,” explains the Cornish Seaweed Bath Company.
Seaweed has been extensively studied in nutritional research and there is evidence of the benefits of its consumption.
Recent studies show that the powerful properties of the bioactive compounds in seaweed are not limited to hair and skin.
It directly supports the function of the thyroid gland, which releases hormones that control growth, energy production and the repair of damaged cells.
In 2021, a study was published that specifically looked at the use of seaweed products.
In a study published in the Journal of Marine Drugs, researchers concluded that seaweed is a valuable component in product formulation due to its biological properties.
By applying the ingredient topically, you minimize the risk of destroying the enzymes in the sea plant that are beneficial to hair.
“A diverse group of biologically active compounds, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, carbohydrates and lipids, can be extracted from seaweed to develop conventional and novel cosmeceutical products,” the researchers concluded.
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Seaweed helps with exfoliation and moisturizes the scalp
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The Irish Marine Institute explains: “The hair absorbs the fatty acids, vitamins and minerals from the seaweed in the same way as the skin.”
“Like a protein shake for your hair, seaweed works wonders on our hair and scalp.
“Seaweed is easily absorbed and does extra work in intensively repairing and rebuilding hair by enriching each and every strand with all those fatty acids and nutrients.
“But seaweed not only affects the internal structure of the hair, it also improves texture and shine, giving you a mermaid-like mane.”
