Spirulina isn’t just any “supergreen” — it’s a complete protein and praised for its many health benefits. It may be a good addition to your diet and your skin care routine.
Spirulina is a blue-green algae or cyanobacteria, available as a vibrant green powder. It contains all the essential amino acids and omega-3 fatty acids and is rich in many nutrients, including vitamin A, magnesium, and iron.
Because of these qualities, spirulina might be a supplement you want to add to your diet and your skin care routine.
Though more research is needed, some studies have shown possible benefits associated with using spirulina extracts in
Support for healthy aging
Spirulina
Phycocyanin is the main active ingredient in spirulina and gives the algae its rich green color.
Spirulina also contains many important amino acids, including glycine and proline, which keep the skin firm and support collagen production.
Spirulina for collagen production and skin tightening
A
May help eliminate toxins
There isn’t significant evidence available to prove that spirulina helps eliminate toxins in the body or skin.
However, in an
May help prevent candida
Some studies have indicated that spirulina may potentially prevent candida skin infection through antifungal activity.
A
There isn’t much evidence to support the claims that spirulina helps to diminish the appearance of acne, psoriasis, eczema, or tightening of the skin.
However, spirulina does have
Spirulina for acne
A 2020 study suggests that applying a cream containing spirulina to the skin could be an alternative option for acne treatment due to its high antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. Spirulina might be a better option than local antibiotic therapy due to fewer side effects and no antibiotic resistance.
Spirulina for psoriasis
A 2020 study showed that spirulina helped to reduce the presence of psoriasis in mice. The study suggests that spirulina could potentially be developed as a natural pharmaceutical for psoriasis treatment.
Spirulina for eczema
A 2020 study suggests that an ointment containing spirulina may help improve eczema symptoms when applied topically twice per day for 3 weeks.
Face mask
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp spirulina extract or 1 tbsp spirulina powder
- 1 tsp evening primrose oil
Directions
- Combine ingredients in a bowl and mix them.
- Apply to clean, dry skin.
- Let it sit on the skin for 10 to 15 minutes, then wash off with a cleanser. Pat dry.
Cleanser
Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp spirulina extract or 1 tbsp spirulina powder
- 1 tbsp carrier oil of your choice, such as argan oil, jojoba oil, or squalane
Directions
- Combine ingredients in a small bowl.
- Apply to clean, dry skin in a circular motion.
- Rinse off with a wet cloth and water. Pat dry.
Spot treatment
Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp spirulina extract or powder
- 1/2 tsp jojoba oil
- 1 drop of tea tree essential oil
Directions
- Apply as a spot treatment to blemishes.
- Leave on for up to an hour.
- Rinse off with a cleanser and pat dry.
While research suggests there are health benefits, the FDA doesn’t monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils and be sure to research the quality of a brand’s products. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil.
Chlorella is a type of green algae, while spirulina is a cyanobacteria.
Although spirulina is referred to as blue-green algae, it’s classified separately from green algae. Additionally, their vitamin and mineral contents differ.
In addition to protein and carbohydrates, spirulina contains essential nutrients and minerals
- vitamins A, C, and E
- iron
- calcium
- chromium
- copper
- magnesium
- manganese
- phosphorus
- potassium
- sodium
- zinc
Chlorella is high in fiber, which makes it hard for humans to digest, so it must be taken as a supplement.
If you have an allergy to spirulina, iodine, seaweed, or seafood, avoid eating or using it topically.
It’s also not suitable for people with a rare genetic condition known as phenylketonuria (PKU). Spirulina contains a substance that can’t be metabolized by individuals with this condition. People with any sort of autoimmune disorder should avoid it as well.
Additionally, it’s important to purchase your spirulina from a reputable source.
Much research has been done on spirulina for overall health, but there isn’t much research on humans and spirulina’s effect on the skin. There’s evidence to suggest that spirulina may help in collagen production and healthy aging, thanks to its strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
Be sure to purchase from a reputable source and chat with a health professional before adding it to your routine.
Daley Quinn is a beauty and wellness journalist and content strategist living in Boston. She’s a former beauty editor at a national magazine, and her work has appeared on sites including Allure, Well + Good, Byrdie, Fashionista, The Cut, WWD, Women’s Health Mag, HelloGiggles, Shape, Elite Daily, and more. You can see more of her work on her website.