Sea moss is considered a superfood that not only offers health benefits but also a myriad of skin benefits. One of the things sea moss is known for is reducing hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
Hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and age spots might just find a worthy opponent in sea moss. Packed with skin-friendly nutrients like iodine, potassium, and calcium, sea moss can reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots so you can enjoy a much healthier complexion.
Of course, you might want to proceed with caution if you have very sensitive skin. Doing a patch test first before applying on your face or consulting with your dermatologist should keep your skin safe from adverse reactions.
What is Sea Moss?
Sea moss, sometimes called Irish moss, Irish red seaweed, is a specific type of red algae with the scientific name Chondrus crispus. It grows abundantly and can be found on the rocky coasts of the Northern Atlantic shorelines of Ireland, the Caribbean Island, and North America.
It’s a spiny sea plant that usually comes in the color red though there are a variety of colors it could naturally come in.
People have long been using it as an additive in foods and drinks, citing the multiple health benefits it can offer. It is often referred to as a “superfood” and has a high level of health-boosting nutrients including iron, iodine, calcium, zinc, magnesium, sulfur, and more.
While it’s been used as a food additive for years now, sea moss has recently seen a surge in popularity as a beneficial ingredient in the skincare world.
Many people figured that if it’s healthy to eat and drink, surely it has a few skin care benefits to offer as well when used topically.
Below, we’ll dive deep into all the skin benefits you can expect from a sea moss-focused skincare routine:
Sea Moss, Hyperpigmentation, and Dark Spots
Hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and age spots are common skin concerns many face and deal with. Luckily, they’re at the top of skin issues that sea moss can help with.
Being rich in iodine, potassium, and calcium, sea moss is thought to help lighten and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and dark spots on the skin. It’s packed with minerals and nutrients that can help you develop and maintain a healthy complexion for glowing skin.
Sea Moss and Acne Treatment
Sea moss is known for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties that can help heal and clear out acne and breakouts.
Its sulfur compounds can also help balance out the skin’s oil production, especially on oily skin. And if you have issues with acne due to excess sebum production, sea moss can help with that.
Sea Moss and Skin Moisture: Soothes Dry Skin
Sea moss contains very high amounts of carrageenan (or polysaccharides), a thickening agent that can hydrate skin and form a protective layer around it. This can help prevent your skin from drying out without feeling too heavy on the skin and pores.
Sea Moss and Anti-Aging
Thanks to its various skin-friendly nutrients including sea moss antioxidants, vitamin A, and omega-3 fatty acids, this can repair skin damage and minimize the appearance of various signs of aging. Additionally, these nutrients can also encourage collagen production so you can enjoy youthful skin longer.
Sea Moss and Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties of sea moss, many have also used it to minimize and keep the symptoms of skin issues like eczema and psoriasis under control.
What Skin Types Can Safely Use Sea Moss for Its Skin Benefits?
Generally, all skin types can use sea moss as part of their skincare routine.
While sea moss reacts well with almost any skin type, it’s still important to conduct a patch test first on your arm before applying it on your face.
If you’re not sure if your skin will react well or have applied it to your skin and you developed a reaction, pay your dermatologist a visit immediately.
Sea Moss: Side Effects to Weigh In
Sea moss contains high levels of sulfur and iodine. Excess iodine consumption can cause goiter of Hashimotos’ disease. Those allergic to either sulfur or shellfish should also proceed with caution as the application of sea moss to the skin may lead to an allergic reaction.
Those with very sensitive skin should also be wary of redness or some burning and stinging sensation. If you’re highly concerned about how your skin will react, consult with your dermatologist first before applying anything.
Is it Safe to Make Your Own Sea Moss Products?
While DIY skincare is all the rage right now, it’s better to experience the benefits of sea moss from a pre-made product with a professional formula. This ensures that the ingredient used is of quality.
Moreover, sea moss can accumulate toxic heavy metals so proper harvesting is essential. Profesional-made sea moss products can promise quality sourcing of the ingredients used.
Can You Consume Sea Moss?
Yes, you can consume sea moss as part of your diet! By itself, sea moss has no taste so many people incorporate the ingredient in smoothies, desserts, and even soup. Doing so can further maximize its health and skin health benefits.
Consult with your doctor on the right dosage as this can vary from one person to another depending on a variety of factors.
Conclusion
Sea moss has been a popular additive in foods and drinks for many years now. Recently, more and more are finding out and appreciating its wide array of skin benefits including issues with hyperpigmentation.
Sea moss is packed with skin-friendly nutrients like iodine, potassium, and calcium. All these can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and lighten dark spots. All the nutrients in sea moss can help you maintain a much healthier complexion as well.
As more and more are turning to sea moss in hopes of solving their own skin concern, it’s still important to remember that everyone’s skin will react differently. Additionally, a consultation with your dermatologist should always put you on the safe side of things.