Algae and more
Algae
Algae are probably some of the greatest survival experts on this planet. Over millennia, they have evolved and adapted themselves perfectly to extreme natural habitats. Unlike plants on land, algae do not have roots. Instead, they absorb all essential minerals and trace elements direct from the seawater into their cells.
Algae are found in a diverse range of habitats: down on the seabed, where they are exposed to low temperatures and high pressure, on the surface of the oceans and in intertidal zones where they are completely underwater part of the day and fully exposed and dehydrated for the rest of the time. Algae that are found in the intertidal zone must withstand harsh sunlight, heat and cold, and also extreme variations in salinity.
These specialists manage to survive in what can be exceptionally harsh conditions thanks to special mechanisms and substance combinations that they have perfected over the course of their evolution, special metabolic processes, amino acids, trace elements, vitamins, polyphenols and antioxidants.
Algae contain a wide range of different active substances, many of which can be used as highly effective ingredients in cosmetics. For example, proteins from algae supply skin cells with energy and protect them against dehydration. Vitamins and beta-carotene strengthen them, slow down the skin's ageing process and protect against harmful environmental influences.
La mer Cosmetics AG extracts these beneficial active substances from algae and uses them in skin care products that boost the skin's natural defences and help it to resist dehydration. Just like algae, our skin is exposed to challenging conditions, day in and day out.
Seawater
The sea and the human body have a lot in common, primarily the fact that the same minerals are present in seawater and in human blood serum. This means that the many minerals and trace elements are exceptionally well absorbed by the body and can be swiftly processed. Seawater has a cleansing, remineralising and revitalising effect on the skin, hair and nails. A seawater bath is relaxing, refreshing and helps to soothe stress and calm the nerves.
Seawater contains more oxygen than the air we breathe.
Seawater is a mixture of pure water and other compounds, such as salts, dissolved gases, organic substances and solid particles. This composition is nearly always constant, but the salt content varies. In the Baltic Sea the average salinity is 0.8%, with the concentration increasing from east to west. The salinity of the North Sea is approximately 3.3%, in the Mediterranean it is 3.7% and the Dead Sea contains 27% salt.
Minerals and trace elements in seawater activate the circulation and are crucial for keeping the skin’s functions in balance. They help the skin to retain moisture and regulate the body’s water balance.
Sea salt
Sea salt is traditionally extracted from seawater that is channelled into shallow ponds. The sun and the wind cause the water to evaporate, leaving behind salt crystals which are rich in valuable trace elements and minerals from the sea. Treatments with sea salt help to stimulate the circulation and regulate the skin’s pH balance. Sea salt soothes inflammation and alleviates itchiness. It is used in cosmetic products either pure or in a solution and is suitable for all skin types.