Benefits of Marine Algae for Collagen Production

Marine algae is a peptide-rich, highly effective topical ingredient for improving collagen production and skin health.

Collagen supplements and skincare products have been on the rise for a while, and even grocery stores have jumped on board with collagen-infused drinks and edible powders on nearly every aisle. But are internal and external collagen supplements the most effective way to support our bodies, or is there another way to protect and encourage our skin’s healthy collagen production?

Collagen in the Body

Let’s first discuss the role of collagen in the body. Collagen is a fiber-like protein that the body naturally produces. It’s one of the main building blocks for connective tissue that supports skin, hair, bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Research shows that collagen is responsible for improving skin elasticity and hydration, as well as the structural strength of muscles and bones. There are around 16 different types of collagen created and used in the body. Today, we’re going to discuss collagen in our skin.

Although our bodies produce an abundant source of this powerful protein, production declines after 30 years of age and is also impacted by factors like sun, alcohol consumption, lack of sleep, and smoking. There are many animal-based collagen supplements on the market, but unfortunately, they can come with a high risk of chemical solvent contamination. Luckily, we can protect our own body’s collagen production and reverse damage to our dermal matrix by incorporating a sustainable, earth-friendly, plant-based source from marine algae.

Consuming external sources of collagen can support the body’s own production, and increase the health of the body and skin. However, in contrast to topically applied cosmeceuticals, the effects of dietary bioactive compounds are complicated.

When we ingest collagen sources, rather than apply them topically, they have a long journey through the gastrointestinal tract, crossing the intestinal barrier, entering the circulatory system, and finally reaching the target issue, the skin.

Including powerful peptides in topical products allows for an increase in bioavailability. In addition to the recently discovered benefits of ingesting collagen, a topical application of peptides and other valuable phytochemicals can be delivered directly to the skin, providing immediate benefits. Marine algae is a peptide-rich, highly effective topical ingredient for improving collagen production and skin health.

Marine Algae

Marine algae peptide supplements taken internally and applied topically are both great options for those that choose a plant-based diet and are looking to improve the elasticity and hydration of their skin. From a sustainability standpoint, marine algae peptides provide the same health-boosting and strengthening properties as animal collagen without as much planetary impact.

Marine peptides are sourced from ocean and lake-dwelling algae. These organisms, like blue-green and red algae, contain an impressive amount of protein peptides (about half their dry weight!) and are rich in amino acids, nutrients, and vitamins A, B, and C. Over time, marine algae have also evolved to contain antioxidant phytochemicals that protect against collagen loss.

Overall, marine algae host numerous health-enhancing benefits that are sometimes absent in animal-sourced collagen. Take a look at these highlighted benefits and how they affect the body:

Marine algae peptides are a complete protein, meaning they host the nine essential amino acids necessary for human health.
Marine algae support the creation of new proteins by providing cells with amino acids
Marine algae host numerous bioavailable phytochemicals that protect against collagen damage, and reverse and repair any existing collagen damage caused by sun exposure.
Marine algae act as a humectant by pulling moisture into the skin or sourcing it from deeper layers of skin to maintain hydration.
Marine algae contain metabolites that act as antioxidants, reducing signs of stress and aging.
Harvesting marine algae doesn’t impact the planet as much as sourcing animal collagen.

Including marine algae in topical products can provide the skin with both active and preventative benefits, countering any current collagen damage and protecting the skin from any future imbalances.

Collagen Support Inside + Out

At Jessica’s Apothecary, we find collagen to be a highly beneficial ingredient for nurturing and improving the condition of the body and skin. A number of our skincare products support the body’s natural production of collagen ensuring a steady supply that helps us age gracefully.

Marine Flower Peptide Eye Cream

Created with the eye’s delicate skin in mind, the Marine Flower Peptide Eye Cream improves the appearance of dark circles, soothes puffiness, and reduces signs of aging. The nourishing ingredients add moisture to the tender eye area and smooth out the deep ridges of wrinkles.

Smart Collagen+ Complex

Sustainably sourced, these marine algae peptides boost the elasticity of skin, leaving fewer wrinkles. The minerals and amino acids moisturize leaving the eye area smooth, firm, and glowing.

Botanical Peptides + Red Algae Extract

With peptides naturally derived from rice protein, this botanical ingredient stimulates the skin’s collagen production leaving it smooth and supple. The red algae extract is rich in nutrients that reduce the visible markers of aging through the soothing properties of minerals, vitamins, and amino acids.

Botanical Hyaluronic Acid (from Beetroot)

The botanical hyaluronic acid locks in moisture for long-lasting hydration. Hyaluronic acid binds water to collagen peptides, securing them in the skin for a radiant, youthful appearance.

Marine Flower Peptide Serum

A powerful, easily-absorbed serum that delivers wrinkle-diminishing peptides and botanicals for a brighter glow. With a handful of the same ingredients as the Marine Flower Peptide Cream (above), including the Smart Collagen+ Complex that smooths out the skin’s surface, and botanical peptides and red algae that enhance firmness, this Marine Flower Peptide Serum supports a youthful, dewy complexion. It also includes one powerhouse ingredient:

Blue-Green Algae Extract

This extract is a wonderful alternative to retinol, supporting increased collagen production and reducing visible wrinkles. Blue-green algae is also rich in antioxidants, providing protection against collagen-reducing factors like sun exposure.

Anima Mundi Collagen Booster: Dirty Rose Chai

The Anima Mundi Collagen Booster: Dirty Rose Chai is the perfect plant-based, vegan formula for those trying to add collagen support to their daily routine. With a blend of ancient herbs, adaptogens, and grounding, digestive spices, this delicious drink enhances the strength of skin, bones, nails, hair, and tissue and is easily bioavailable. Plus, it tastes amazing!

Silica + Calcium

The Collagen Booster contains herbs like horsetail and nettle, which naturally increase the body’s own production of collagen. These herbs are also rich in nutrients, like silica and calcium, that act similarly to collagen, strengthening connective tissue and repairing any damage to joints and skin.

Adaptogens

Containing powerful adaptogens, like Fo-Ti and Gynostemma, this blend supports the body by balancing the stress response and regulating energy levels. Ongoing stress affects the integrity of skin’s collagen and can disrupt its synthesis, reducing collagen levels in the body. Adaptogens support collagen production and aid the body by regulating the immune, nervous, and endocrine systems and creating a higher resilience to stressful situations.

Because I want you to receive the most supportive, nourishing skincare available, I’m bundling these two Marine Flower Peptide products together and offering them as the Botanical Collagen Collection at a special price.

You can purchase this bundle for $181, a savings of $31 on the pair.

In Closing

With the reduction of collagen over time, the skin’s integrity can weaken and become dry with age. Marine algae peptides can provide invaluable benefits to the body’s collagen supply, enhancing the health of all connective tissue and boosting the radiant appearance of skin.

If you’re interested in providing your skin with the most effective care but don’t know where to start, request a virtual consultation with our botanical skin care specialist, Jessica Flora.

For more information on marine algae peptides, visit our blog post 30 Or Older? Plant-Based Peptides For Skin Can Help You Age Radiantly.

30 or Older? Plant-Based Peptides for Skin Can Help You Age Radiantly

Explore the benefits of plant-based peptides for the skin + product recommendations to age beautifully.

Fine lines and wrinkles are inevitable as we age, but the first time we see them on our own face it can come as a shock. In a culture that celebrates youth, it may be an unwelcome surprise. But we can help shift that culture by giving our skin appropriate care as it matures — it’s one way to show the world we’re worthy of top-notch treatment no matter our age. In this post, I’ll explore three products with plant-based peptides for skin at 30+ and two more as a bonus for those on the cusp of 50. But first, I’ll explain how peptides can help your skin continue to glow naturally — revealing your radiance at any age.

(If you love this post, make sure to check out our Plumping Peptide Collection, which combines three of the products for a special savings of $53!)

Tapping Into The Benefits of Peptides For Skin

Peptides are the amino acids that combine to make proteins in your skin. You’ve heard of collagen? Well, that’s made of polypeptide chains. (If you aren’t familiar with collagen, I’ll do a quick review below.)

Studies have demonstrated that peptides provide numerous benefits for the skin. These benefits include:

The inhibition of aging-related enzymes, including elastase, collagenase, tyrosinase, and hyaluronidase
Antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory actions
Protection against damage when applied topically or ingested

By applying peptides to the skin, you ensure your body has the materials it needs to make collagen, keeping your skin plumper, firmer, and more radiant. And you get some added protection from the daily damage of inflammation and oxidative stress.

Collagen: Structural Support Stronger Than Steel

Collagen creates structural support throughout your body. Gram for gram, the collagen in your skin, tendons, and bones — Type I collagen — is stronger than steel. Without it, blood vessels, tendons, and skin would be very fragile.

Your body makes its own collagen, but production decreases as we age. That’s one of the reasons our skin gets wrinkles. Collagen density begins to decline around age 30, at a rate of 1-1.5% each year. We do have some control over that loss by protecting against damage that degrades collagen. And certain products, such as those with peptides, can support collagen production.

Why Marine Algae?

With protein content of up to 47% of their dry weight, marine algae are gaining recognition as a sustainable source of bioactive peptides.

Algae are rich in proteins, amino acids, vitamins A, B, and C, and elements including copper, iron and zinc. All of those components aid hydration, firming, and luminance. Many species also contain compounds that protect skin and, in turn, keep it looking youthful.

Exposed to sunlight all day, marine algae have had to evolve innate protections against damage from UV light. Those compounds — a range of pigments, polysaccharides, phenol, lipids, and proteins — have been shown to protect our skin from oxidative damage as well.

A review of scientific studies found that algal extracts have the following actions:

antioxidant
anti-inflammatory
anti-pigmentation (evening dark patches of skin)
anti-aging
anticancer

Algae’s antioxidants play an underlying role in all of the above. That’s because UV-induced oxidative stress contributes to inflammation, melanin-pigment production, aging, and DNA damage that can lead to cancer. By neutralizing free radicals and preventing oxidative damage — especially the accumulation of reactive oxidants, sometimes called reactive oxygen species or ROS — we prevent the eventual repercussions of it too.

Brown and red algae have, thus far, shown the greatest potential for human use. That said, most algae possess similarly beneficial compounds.

Age-Corrective Solutions For Skin

The products I recommend below incorporate the benefits of collagen, algae, and peptides for skin. They are geared towards those 30+ who want to slow down the loss of collagen and hyaluronic acid. (Three are part of a collection with special pricing, and the last two are bonus mentions.)

Is anyone else getting the idea that these

products would be a great alternative to botox and fillers? There’s no shame in choosing those options but I have committed to an all natural route. I’m thrilled with the Marine Flower Peptide collection for that reason!

Speaking of which, all of the products are from Eminence Organics’ Marine Flower Peptide Collection. This skin care line has uncompromising standards for quality, effectiveness, and ethical production.

Marine Flower Peptide Eye Cream

This rich eye cream reduces visible signs of aging, hydrating the delicate skin around your eyes to minimize the appearance of wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles.

The formula contains botanical peptides derived from rice protein, and red algae extract with vitamins, minerals, and amino-acids. Botanical hyaluronic acid from beet root smooths and plumps skin, preventing water loss to help maintain long-lasting hydration and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

The eye cream also contains Eminence Organic’s unique Smart Collagen+ Complex, blending:

Botanical collagen from yeast, which has a smaller molecular structure than animal-derived collagen, making it more recognizable to skin
Marine algae to increase firmness and bring long-lasting hydration
Bulbine leaf, which activates type 1 collagen, according to Eminence

For best results, apply to the entire eye area twice daily, patting gently with fingertips until fully absorbed. Leave on.

Purchase the Marine Flower Peptide Eye Cream here.

Marine Flower Peptide Concentrate

This cream gel acts as a plumper and filler, thanks to the brown algae. Suitable for all skin types, this lightweight formula helps skin look firm and targets visible signs of aging, giving a revitalizing boost that reveals smooth, more supple-looking skin.

It contains botanical peptides from rice protein to reduce the appearance of fine lines and leave the skin looking energized, and blue-green algae extract, a natural retinol alternative that reduces the appearance of wrinkles without harmful side effects. Finally brown algae extract (from Pelvetia canaliculata) lends skin a firm, supple appearance.

To use, apply 2-3 pumps to cleansed skin once or twice daily. Temporary, mild tingly is normal. Leave on. Follow up with a moisturizer.

Purchase the Marine Flower Peptide Concentrate here.

Marine Flower Peptide Lip Serum

Like the concentrate, the lip serum plumps and fills with the help of brown algae (Padina Pavonica this time). Reach for this silky serum to reveal smoother, plumper-looking lips while improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in the lips and surrounding area.

In addition to the brown algae extract, this formula derives its peptides for skin from rice protein to reduce the appearance of fine lines and leave lips looking energized. Botanical collagen from yeast helps give skin structure, working in tandem with the botanical hyaluronic acid, which binds to water to smooth and plump the skin. Brown algae extract (from Padina pavonica) helps the skin look firm, elastic, and hydrated.

To use, dispense a small amount of product and use the oval tip applicator to massage the serum into lips and surrounding area. Leave on, and reapply as often as needed. You can wear this on its own or under a lip balm or lipstick.

Purchase the Marine Flower Peptide Lip Serum here.

Want all three of these incredible products? Purchase the Plumping Peptide Collection for $161 (Special savings of $53.)

For Radiant Skin at 50 and Beyond

While the collection above is for those 30 and older, the two products below were formulated for clients age 50 and older who may already be experiencing a loss of collagen in the form of deep lines and wrinkles.

Marine Flower Peptide Night Cream

This rich, velvety overnight essential is formulated specifically for delicate, crepey skin. Lock in moisture and smooth, hydrate, and tone while you sleep. Botanical peptides from rice protein and from the superfood sacha inchi give skin a firmer, lifted appearance, minimizing wrinkles. Blue-green algae extract acts as a natural retinoid-alternative to further minimize the look of wrinkles.

For best results, apply a layer over the entire face, neck and décolleté area and leave on. For extra hydration at night, apply a light layer of the Rosehip & Lemongrass Repair Balm on top.

Purchase the Marine Flower Peptide Night Cream here.

Marine Flower Peptide Serum

A client favorite, this potent gel serum delivers concentrated plant peptides and botanicals to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for visibly smoother, plumper and more youthful-looking skin. It’s suitable for all skin types, but was formulated for aging skin, with Smart Collagen+ Complex to rejuvenate the complexion while unique algae extracts increase firmness and provide long-lasting hydration.

Smart Collagen+ Complex contains:

Botanical collagen from yeast, which has a smaller molecular structure than animal-derived collagen, making it more recognizable to skin
Marine algae to increase firmness and bring long-lasting hydration
Bulbine leaf, which activates type 1 collagen, according to Eminence

The formula also features botanical peptides from rice protein, blue-green

algae extract as a natural retinoid-alternative that reduces the look of wrinkles, and nutrient-rich red algae extract, packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino-acids to reduce visible signs of aging.

To use, apply a thin layer over the entire face on clean, dry skin. Layer a lipid-rich serum, if desired, and moisturizer on top.

Purchase the Marine Flower Peptide Serum here.

In Closing,

We can’t stop time. But we can age with radiance, allowing our nourished skin to glow even as we grow older. These carefully formulated skin care products — backed by science showing the benefits of peptides for skin — can help you look radiant at every age.

Wondering which product to try first?

Book a virtual skin care consultation with botanical skin care specialist Jessica Goneia. Jessica is a knowledgeable guide who can offer recommendations specific to your skin type and the environmental stressors you face day to day. She’ll follow up with samples delivered to your mailbox!

Request a virtual skin care consultation.