Algae: the “magic” ingredients in laboratoires de biarritz skincare

The Perfection of Eons of Evolution

Among the oldest forms of life on Earth, algae have been able to use our planet’s resources for almost 4 billion years. Evolving in extreme environments, they have been able to adapt, defend themselves, and develop. Algae feed by absorbing the nutrients they need through their thallus (undifferentiated vegetative apparatus of a plant). In doing so, they concentrate the essence of these elements. To protect themselves, they have developed mechanisms to shield themselves from the adverse effects of the sun and environmental pressure.

Indeed, many live very close to the ocean surface of the oceans and face exposure to harsh sunlight. Their survival depends on their use of protective molecules, ingenious compounds that filter UVA/UVB, induce melanogenesis and tissue healing, and act as antioxidants. These are the properties that Laboratoires de Biarritz studies to create protective and reparative* products that respect your skin and have a limited impact on the oceans.
* Repairs the superficial layers of the skin.

4 Algae for 5 Ingredients

Initially drawing our inspiration from the protective properties of the Basque Country’s red algae (Gelidium sesquipedale), Laboratoires de Biarritz now uses four species of algae from the Atlantic coasts. In each, we encounter unique virtues:

• The red algae Gelidium sesquipedale and the two ingredients we derive from it:
  – l’actif Alga-Gorria® : a patented, powerful antioxidant extract. It is composed of a combination of carotenoids (lutein and zeaxanthin) and mycosporine-like amino acids, which enables it to neutralize a wide variety of free radicals. By combating free radicals, Alga-Gorria® protects cells and prevents premature skin aging.
  Free radicals are highly reactive fragments of molecules that can degrade the structures that give your skin its youthful look. Collagen fibers, elastin, and hyaluronic acid are all under threat, making your skin age prematurely.

  The antioxidant activity of Alga-Gorria® has been proven with in vitro tests measuring the extract’s capacity to inhibit lipidic peroxidation.
  – Alga-Sendatu®: a patented ingredient, Alga-Sendatu® enhances the reparation of the superficial layers of the skin and helps restore the skin’s barrier function. The epidermis, our body’s first line of defense against the external environment, must be preserved at all costs. When it is damaged, high-quality reconstruction is crucial. Alga-Sendatu® stimulates keratinocyte regeneration and maturation, helping the epithelial restructuration of the epidermis for an optimal reparative* effect.
  * Repairs the superficial layers of the skin.

• Brown algae Fucus vesiculosus, from which we derive Alga-Paisium®: an exclusive soothing ingredient, Alga-Paisium soothes the skin and prevents skin irritation for the most vulnerable of us, our children and infants. Rich in phlorotannins, the extract helps maintain the integrity of the skin thanks to its anti-reddening and anti-irritation effects.. The “magic” ingredient for caring for the fragile acid mantle of infant skin, enabling your little loved ones to feel happy and comfortable!
• Sugar Kelp or Saccharina latissima: a true skin-softener, Sugar Kelp reduces feelings of tightness and reilluminates the skin. Several molecules are at work in the extract. Laminarin promotes microcirculation and has an invigorating effect, phenolic compounds reduce redness, and film-forming, hydrophilic alginates promote hydration and slow drying.
• Brown algae Alaria esculenta: the extract has tonifying properties to boost your skin and make it radiant. Thanks to collagenase and elastase blocking effects (which preserves collagen and elastin), it helps your skin stay supple and elastic.