Kelp, a type of seaweed, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and skincare – but do you know about all the kelp benefits for skin?
Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, kelp offers a range of benefits for your skin. From improving hydration to reducing inflammation, you’ll be surprised by the full list which also includes promoting collagen production and fighting signs of aging.
You may be asking… what is kelp? Is kelp the same thing as seaweed?
According to the National Ocean Service, Kelp is large brown algae that live in cool, relatively shallow waters close to the shore. Kelp forests provide food and shelter for thousands of species and dense canopies of algae generally occur in cold, nutrient-rich waters.
While this is all great info, we are sure you’re wondering about the benefits for your skin. And how this relates to a self-care blog? As we have said before, skin care is self-care.
We are here to provide you with the best information on how to create the best self-care routine. Therefore, adding kelp to your routine may be a great addition!
Why is Kelp Good For Your Skin?
Kelp is a type of seaweed that is rich in nutrients and minerals, such as iodine, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and iron. These minerals are known to be beneficial for skin health, as they help to nourish and hydrate the skin, promote collagen production, and protect against damage from environmental stressors.
In addition to minerals, kelp contains vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E, which are powerful antioxidants that can help prevent premature aging of the skin. This marine powerhouse is it’s a rich source of vitamins that you may not be getting in your diet. Kelp also contains fucoidan, a type of complex carbohydrate that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. Additionally, it’s also one of the best natural sources of iodine.
When used in skincare products, kelp can help to soothe and hydrate the skin, reduce inflammation, and improve overall skin texture and appearance. It can also help to improve skin elasticity, which can lead to a more youthful and radiant complexion. Now let’s jump into other fun facts about seaweed.
Other Fun Facts About Seaweed
- Kelp can grow up to 18 inches a day in ideal conditions
- Kelp forests harbor a greater variety and higher diversity of plants and animals than almost any other ocean community
- Many organisms use the thick blades as a safe shelter for their young from predators or even rough storms
- Because of their dependency upon light for photosynthesis, kelp forests form in shallow open waters and are rarely found deeper than 49-131 feet. (From NOAA)
- Kelp is actually a specific type of brown seaweed that grows to very big sizes
- Seaweed is the general term that refers to the whole group of species
Amazing Kelp Benefits for Skin
Below you’ll find a few different kelp benefits for skin in no particular order. The benefits are impactful for all different ages, genders, and lifestyles.
Kelp may help minimize sun damage from UV radiation
Another great benefit of Kelp is that it contains bioactive compounds like polyphenols, fucoidan, phlorotannins, carotenoids, etc. When used on the skin, this can help reduce damage caused by harmful rays. UV rays can also create dark spots or unwanted hyperpigmentation. With the addition of kelp, you may see reduced signs of sun damage.
Kelp is packed with antioxidants and minerals
Kelp is a powerhouse of amino acids, antioxidants, and minerals that can benefit your skin in many ways. Antioxidants help protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to premature aging and other skin problems. Kelp is also rich in minerals like iodine, magnesium, and calcium. These minerals can help improve skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy skin cell growth. Incorporating kelp into your skincare routine can help give you a healthy, glowing complexion.
It can help improve skin hydration and elasticity
Kelp is a natural source of hyaluronic acid, a substance that helps your skin retain moisture and stay hydrated. This can help improve your skin’s elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, the minerals found in kelp can help strengthen your skin’s protective barrier function. This can further improve hydration levels and protect your skin from environmental stressors. Incorporating kelp into your skincare routine can help give you a more youthful, radiant complexion.
Hyaluronic acid may also be able to help reduce moisture loss. This can help your skin look glowing!
Kelp has microbial properties to help reduce acne
This is another great benefit of kelp. The active microbial properties of kelp may help combat fungi and other troublesome things that may cause acne. That’s why you may see kelp in many skincare formulas. It makes for a great cleanser while also being a great addition to any beauty products.
Say no more to pimples and skin lacerations because kelp has got you covered!
Kelp can also help reduce inflammation and redness
In addition to its hydrating benefits, kelp can also help reduce inflammation and redness in the skin. This is due to the presence of fucoidan, a type of complex carbohydrate found in kelp that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation, kelp can help soothe irritated skin and improve overall skin tone and texture. So if you’re looking for a natural way to calm and nourish your skin, consider incorporating kelp into your skincare routine.
It may even have anti-aging properties.
Seaweed products may contain fewer chemicals and more natural ingredients
When it comes to choosing what beauty products to use, you’ll want to prioritize products with more natural ingredients. Some kelp products may contain less than a few ingredients and you can pronounce them all! If you are unsure about some products, you can even create a mask with dried kelp and you’ll still experience many skin benefits of kelp.
Kelp may have anti-aging properties
This is due to the presence of antioxidants in kelp, which can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to the aging process. By protecting the skin from free radical damage, kelp can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote a more youthful-looking complexion. So if you’re looking for a natural way to fight the signs of aging, consider adding kelp to your skincare routine.
Incorporating kelp into your skincare routine is easy and affordable
Adding kelp to your skincare routine is a simple and affordable way to reap its many benefits. You can find kelp-infused skincare products at many beauty stores, or you can make your own DIY kelp facial mask at home. Simply mix seaweed powder with water or aloe vera gel to create a paste. Then, apply it to your face, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off. With regular use, you’ll notice a brighter, more youthful-looking complexion in no time!
Other ways to add kelp to your routine include:
- Using a kelp exfoliating product to remove dead skin cells
- Use kelp as one of the natural ingredients in smoothies or snacks in your daily diet
- Use essential oils made of seaweed
- Prioritize getting products with sea kelp extract
- Create a mineral bath soak and add some kelp
- Add some kelp fine powder to warm water, watch it dissolve, and drink it while using skincare affirmations
- Ask your esthetician to add kelp to your monthly facial
To check out a list of kelp supplements, read the guide here of 11 of our favorites!
Is kelp good for all kinds of skin types?
If you are suffering from any skin conditions or you have abrasions on the surface of the skin, we suggest that you contact your dermatologist. If you are unsure about putting kelp on your face because you have sensitive skin, you can always add kelp to your diet in the form of powders. Additionally, if you’re interested in kelp in the supplement form, we have a list here.
Final Thoughts
Kelp is honestly the super star of marine plants. Not only does it play an important role in the marine ecosystem but it is also one of the great things that you may now find in your cosmetic products. We’ve covered the main benefits of kelp, but there are also many others that have been researched.
Adding kelp to your skincare routine, smoothies (powder form), or eating it raw can be a great way to contribute to good overall health. Even if you’re not interested in kelp benefits for your skin, the high mineral content makes it great for your well-being.
If you are worried about high levels of iodine or you are currently on medication, we suggest that you consult your doctor before adding kelp to your daily routine. Additionally, pregnant women should also contact their physician before adding kelp to their diet.
Also, if you’re just adding kelp to your routine, you may want to try supplements in small doses and not yet at full strength.
While there are many potential benefits and healing properties, it’s important to follow the recommended daily intake.
There are a number of products out there that will specific how much help to consume. Follow guidelines accordingly and after a few weeks, you may experience much more beautiful skin and many other health benefits!
Sources: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-3397/17/12/688