Rejuvenating the Skin: The Role of Macro and Microalgae in Preventing Aging

The increasing consumer demand for cosmetic products has led to the widespread use of synthetic substances, which are inexpensive and readily available but can sometimes harm the skin and body. Examples include hydroxybenzoic acid esters (parabens) and phthalates, which are considered endocrine disruptors, and synthetic fragrances that may cause irritation or allergies. Consequently, there has been a shift in consumer preferences towards natural cosmetic products. In response to this demand and the expanding market for skincare products, the search for natural ingredients as alternatives to synthetic ones has intensified. Algae-derived compounds have emerged as promising candidates due to their photoprotective properties and diverse biological activities, including UV absorption, antioxidant effects, matrix metalloproteinase inhibition, anti-aging, and immunomodulatory properties. These substances, which include phenolic compounds ranging from simple molecules to highly polymerized forms, offer significant skin benefits. Marine algal products, with their antioxidants, sunscreen, thickening, and moisturizing properties, can effectively enhance skin protection against various forms of damage. The main groups of macro and microalgae, such as Chlorophyta (green algae), Heterokontophyta (brown algae), Rhodophyta (red algae), Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae), Bacillariophyceae (diatoms), and Haptista (coccolithophores), all possess beneficial properties for use in cosmetics.