Hey Merfolks!!!! Welcome to Mermaid’s blog post.
Today we will be talking about the much-celebrated Skincare Ingredient: Wakame Seaweed.
Wakame Seaweed is an edible seaweed belonging to the subcategory referred to as Brown Algae (There are three subcategories: Red, Brown, and Green). Known for their exceptional nutritional value and versatility, seaweeds are a staple for East Asian Cuisine. These protein-dense sea plants are even considered to be a superfood. Though the validity of the term ‘superfood’ is a much-discussed topic (check here: Superfoods or Superhype?), there is no denying the fact that Seaweeds are some extraordinary ingredients.
However, let’s not forget that there are around 12,000 defined species of seaweed, according to The Seaweed Site. Obviously, some seaweeds are more exclusive than others. This is where our star ingredient, Wakame shines through.
First, let us get familiar with this slimy and unique ingredient.
Name: Wakame Seaweed (Undaria pinnatifida)
Species Category: Brown edible seaweed
Cultivation: Native to Japan (this plant was cultivated by Japanese sea farmers from as early as the 8th century), the nutritious plant can be found in the Mediterranean region as well. Japan and Australia are the biggest exporters of Wakame. Japan is the hub for wakame farming whereas, as Australia is known for its wild wakame.
Uses:
Culinary: An Asian staple, mostly severed with soups, salads, and as a side dish. Wakame flavour is extremely versatile and it can be paired with almost any food.
Health Benefits: Wakame is a harmonious mixture of various vitamins, antioxidants, iodine, polyunsaturated fatty acids, fibers, carbohydrates, iron, and minerals. Jon Johnson, in his article ,What are the benefits of seaweed? (2018), published on Medical use today, states that consuming seaweed in general offers various health benefits such as: the lowered risk of hyperthyroidism, can help regulate insulin levels, promotes good gut health, reduces the levels of cholesterol, and can assist in healthy weight loss.
Skincare Benefits: Backed by its skin regenerating, anti-oxidizing, and moisturizing properties, Wakame is a quite reputable ingredient in the skincare industry.
Finally, we are at the much-awaited sub-section of this blog. So without any further delay, let’s take a look at the skin benefits of Wakame.
Brightening
Powered by polysaccharides, amino acids, and antioxidants, Wakame also enhances one’s complexion by combating hyperpigmentation and acne spots. It does so by targeting and inhibiting the overproduction of melanogenesis, with the help of fucoxanthin[2], which also posses photoprotective properties.
Prevents oxidative stress
Wakame contains polysaccharides, which are known to reduce oxidative stress at the cellular level and protect the skin’s barriers by retaining moisture. Thus it is utilized in a great deal of topical anti-aging formulations. It also prevents the hair from external toxins such as UV rays, pollution, etc
Skin Conditioning Activity
As mentioned above, Wakame protects the skin barrier by retaining moisture for long hours.
The proteins in wakame bind water molecules to the skin, these molecules then with the help of peptides penetrate deeper skin layers. Hence, Wakame is considered to be one the best natural emollient.
Regenerating
The anti-aging properties of Wakame are further strengthened by the presence of:
- Proline, an amino acid that promotes the synthesis of collagen and elastin.
- Aspartic acid, another amino acid that promotes tissue growth and skin regeneration.
- Vitamins of B Group, such as Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Biotin (Vitamin B8), Folic Acid(Vitamin B9), and Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6), that enhance cell metabolism
Wakame provides the skin with all the necessary nutrients that it needs for facilitating the cellular repairing process, thus reducing and preventing fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots
Conclusion:
Wakame Seaweed is truly a great ingredient that offers exceptional results with almost no side effects. You can never go wrong with this ingredient, be it your diet or skincare routine.
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References: Provital Group & Active Organics.
