In this regular series, Tracey Ryan, the master formulator behind Bia, enlightens us with her expert knowledge of the plant kingdom and how botanicals can benefit our skin.
Ingredient:
Serrated wrack seaweed
Latin name:
Fucus serratus
Native to:
The northern Atlantic Ocean and Atlantic coastlines of Europe, especially the Irish and British coastlines.
Key nutrients:
Serrated wrack contains a type of anti-inflammatory polysaccharide, called fucoidans, in its cell walls, as well as strengthening beta-carotene, vitamins A and E and replenishing alginic acid.
Essential benefits:
Studies show that fucoidans can significantly reduce inflammation and might stimulate the growth of skin-firming collagen while also helping to prevent the natural breakdown of collagen that occurs with age. Vitamins A and E have protective antioxidant capabilities and alginic acid acts like a humectant to draw in moisture, giving skin a plumped and dewy appearance.
Little known details:
Serrated wrack grows on rocky shores since it needs a stable surface to cling to, and once harvested, the fresh, raw tips of this seaweed are delicious in a salad.
Where to find it:
This potent, youth-enhancing marine ingredient can be found in Bia Facial Oil and Bia Day Cream, where it helps calm skin and improve elasticity.
