Spirulina Face Mask For Skin Whitening | A Vegan’s Take
For years humankind has depended on nature for all its needs, whether it be food, shelter, or beauty. Natural Botanical extracts and herbal ingredients were the pioneers of beauty products worldwide. The first beauty product came from nature, and till today, we all hunt for natural face remedies.
Spirulina is emerging as a popular plant-based skincare option for vegans and non-vegans with its beauty benefits. It is one of the most sustainable microalgae that targets skin cells and gives a natural glow and fairness to one’s face. It has moisturizing, anti-aging and anti-acne properties, making it an ideal product for most vegan men and women.
Spirulina has herbal and safe brightening and antioxidant properties on the skin with the presence of an effective Phyto complex that inhibits tyrosinase. Therefore, spirulina is being used for the manufacture of several face masks and moisturizing creams to revert the darkened skin shade. Many brands are incorporating spirulina for skin whitening as well. In This article, we will check out the benefits of using Spirulina face masks for vegans.
What Is Spirulina?
Spirulina is a wondrous superfood that packs innumerable skin and health benefits. It is a green-blue alga. Its dark color comes from high chlorophyll content. The origin of Spirulina goes back to the 16th Century, at Lake Texcoco in Mexico, where it was used as a food product in form of flat cakes.
In 1940, spirulina was sourced from Lake Chad in Africa by Kanembu Tribe to make “dihe,” a cake. Later a phycologist confirmed that it was made from a puree of green-blue algae.
In the 1960s, It was found in large quantities at Lake Texcoco by French researchers. Finally, in 1964 and 1965, the botanist Jeon Leonard discovered that “dihe” was a product of spirulina. 1970 saw the first systematic study and growth of spirulina.
Currently, Spirulina is grown near freshwater sources. After harvesting, it is dried to make a powder. The main advantage of spirulina is its ease of cultivation. It requires the least amount of water, sunlight, and soil for growing. Spirulina can grow between 10-12 ph. Levels. Plus, there are no by-products after harvesting.
Spirulina is an all-rounder botanical microalgae. It is considered a complete protein, meaning it contains all of the essential amino acids that the body needs to function. In fact, the protein in spirulina is so dense that it is often used as a protein supplement for athletes and bodybuilders.
One unique variety of spirulina is blue spirulina, also known as phycocyanin. Blue spirulina offers several health benefits due to its phycocyanin content. Phycocyanin has been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to a variety of health issues, including heart disease and cancer.
Additionally, phycocyanin has been shown to support the immune system, making it an excellent supplement for individuals looking to boost their overall health.
Spirulina Nutritional Value (per 100 g)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Fats | 7.72 g |
| Protein | 57.47 g |
| Fiber | 3.6 g |
| Sugar | 3.1 g |
| Vitamin B2 | 3.67 mg |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
| Iron | 28.5 mg |
| Sodium | 1048 mg |
The Growing Trend Of Spirulina In Topical Skincare Products
Spirulina is being cultivated mostly for use in the manufacture of topical skincare products like face masks, face creams, cleansers, and more. The topical benefits of spirulina include slow aging, reduced inflammation and hyperpigmentation, and spot and acne treatment.
A 2019 study showed that spirulina boosts up collagen formation in the blood, which brightens the skin cells. As a result, skin appears firm and fair. It removes harmful toxins from the body and improves skin glow. The healing properties of spirulina treat acne and avoid the build-up of bacteria in pores.
Spirulina possesses detoxifying and antioxidant benefits that act on hyperpigmented skin cells and gives you bright and fair skin. It is even proven to improve skin tone and dullness. Spirulina also has anti-aging properties that fade visible wrinkles and tighten loose skin.
It’s easy to get rid of skin tiredness signs like fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles by using spirulina-based topical products. It is suitable for all skin types, be it oily, dry, or sensitive. It provides supple and soft results to everyone.
How Does Spirulina Work For Skin Whitening?
Spirulina is a highly potent microalga that offers various skin benefits that can be derived and absorbed through consumption or direct application. Currently, The topical uses of spirulina for skin whitening are more in trend.
The Science Behind The Skin-Whitening Properties Of Spirulina
Scientific research has proved that spirulina does contain legit skin whitening properties. We need to understand the science behind this skin-brightening effect. Dark skin is a condition which is termed hyperpigmentation. The melanocytes are the site for the pigment genesis process.
In this process, melanin is controlled and produced by tyrosinase. Melanin is responsible for the pigmentation of your hair, skin, and eyes. Excess melanin production causes the skin to become darker. Therefore, skin whitening requires tyrosinase inhibitor agents.
Spirulina acts as a natural and safest tyrosinase inhibitor in comparison to harmful artificial inhibitors. The presence of phytocpmplex was another supporting factor for spirulina skin whitening properties. Vanillic acid, caffeic acid, and ferulic acid contribute considerably to control tyrosinase. One more effective antioxidant component of spirulina, C-phycocyanin, has anti-melanogenic effects on the skin, resulting in lighter skin.
The Potential Mechanisms By Which Spirulina May Help To Lighten The skin
Spirulina positively pushes many potential skin whitening mechanisms in the skin cells and body. It can be either a topical mechanism or an ingestion process. Spirulina increases the capability of derma fibroblast cells. These cells result in better collagen production. A healthy collagen level keeps the skin firm and bright.
Spirulina speeds up cell metabolism for the skin. As a result, acne heals faster, and inflammation reduces, which further leads to skin whitening. Spirulina has antioxidant properties due to its rich pigment content of chlorophyll and phycocyanin.
Overall, while more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which spirulina may help to lighten the skin, its antioxidant and collagen-boosting properties, as well as its rich nutrient content, make it a promising ingredient for achieving a brighter, more radiant complexion.
Vegan-Friendly Spirulina Face Masks For Skin Whitening
Options For purchasing A Pre-made Spirulina Face Mask
There are many pre-made vegan spirulina facemasks for skin whitening available on amazon. You can easily order and use them for obtaining skin benefits. This is our best pick for a spirulina face mask:
VogueNow Spirulina Jelly Face Mask for facials
This spirulina face mask comes in a powder form which turns into jelly when mixed with water. It gives salon-like treatment at home.
The jelly spirulina face mask hydrates, brightens, and nourishes the skin deeply, leaving your face with a long-lasting glow. It has a fresh, rejuvenating effect on the skin cells. The spirulina superfood boosts collagen formation and tightens loose skin.
- Affordable and budget-friendly
- Easy to apply and remove
- Suitable for all skin types
- May experience strong smell or discomfort during use
Due to its anti-allergic and anti-bacterial properties, people also use this jelly spirulina for acne treatment. It is well known for reversing and slowing down the skin aging process by revitalizing the skin cells. It eliminates free radicals from the skin and reduces the visibility of fine lines, spots, and wrinkles, thus making you feel youthful.
This powder comes with a free spatula for easy mixing and application and a jade roller for massaging the jelly on the face. After drying, it peels off easily in one piece, so you don’t have to vigorously rub your skin.
Homemade Spirulina Face Masks Using Vegan Ingredients
Homemade spirulina face masks are a great way to take advantage of the algae’s skin-nourishing properties. Spirulina face masks can help to moisturize, brighten, and soothe the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Spirulina face masks can be made using spirulina powder or spirulina supplement capsules and can be easily customized to suit different skin types and concerns. We will share two simple DIY spirulina face mask recipes using vegan spirulina capsules and spirulina powder.
DIY Spirulina Face Mask Using : Snap Spirulina + Chlorella – Alkalizing Greens Complex
Ingredients
- Snap Spirulina + Chlorella – Alkalizing Greens Complex tablets : 3-4 tablets
- Organic Honey- 1 tbsp
- Any light oil(almond, primrose) – 1 tsp
- Vitamin E capsule
Method
- Crush the spirulina tablets in a mortar pestle to make a fine green powder.
- Now mix this powder with all other ingredients
- Now apply this mixture on your face using a spatula or hands evenly
- Let it sit for 10-15 mins. Relax your skin.
- Finally, wash your face gently under water and dab it with a soft cloth.
It is to be noted that tablets may or may not work very effectively for topical purposes. We advise you to talk to your dermatologist or use spirulina powder.
Homemade Spirulina Face Mask (using Spirulina powder)
Ingredients
- Organic Honey- 1 tbsp
- Vegan Spirulina Powder – ½ tsp
- Any light oil (almond, primrose)- 1 tsp
Method
- Take a bowl and put all ingredients in the given quantity. You can increase or decrease quantity according to your volume of use.
- Mix well using a spoon or silicon spatula to make a lump-free mixture
- Apply on dry and clean skin
- Let it rest for 10-15 mins
- Rinse off with water and pat dry the skin. Do not rub the dried mask on the skin very harshly.
Precautions And Considerations
Even though spirulina is a natural ingredient, it may have some side effects on peculiar skin types. If not used correctly, it can cause minor skin issues. Let us look at some side effects, precautions, and safety measures.
Potential Side Effects Or Allergic Reactions To Spirulina
People who have sea allergies or are intolerant to seafood, seaweed, etc, must be cautious before using spirulina in food or skincare. Spirulina is a microalga sourced from the sea, thus, it can cause skin rashes, redness, or puffiness in people with seafood allergies.
Secondly, Spirulina does not suit for an uncommon genetic condition called phenylketonuria (PKU). This condition does not allow the metabolism or synthesis action of spirulina. Furthermore, people suffering from any autoimmune disorder must refrain from spirulina consumption or usage.
Tips For Using A Spirulina Face Mask Safely And Effectively
To use a spirulina mask safely, you need to keep some tips in mind:
- Use a natural and vegan spirulina powder from a trusted company or established brand.
- Unknown sources of spirulina can be unrefined and have toxic substances
- Consult your dermatologist to know your skin type and its suitability for spirulina
- Do a patch test on a small skin area ( preferably, hand) before applying it on the entire face.
Conclusion
In conclusion, spirulina is a nutrient-dense superfood that can offer numerous benefits when used topically on the skin. A spirulina face mask is an easy and effective way to harness the algae’s skin-nourishing properties and achieve a brighter, more radiant complexion. While there are plenty of cosmetics and beauty products available in the market that claim to offer similar benefits, it is essential to look for cruelty-free products as a level 5 vegan.
Thankfully, there are plenty of cruelty-free brands out there that offer high-quality beauty products such as Soap and Glory, Boscia, Bare Minerals, Stila, that work just as well, if not better than their non-vegan counterparts. By being a conscious consumer and supporting these brands, you can make a positive impact on both the beauty industry and the world.
