Anti-aging discoveries from the sea!
New research reveals powerful anti-aging secrets hidden under the ocean’s surface—it’s the reason you’re now finding so many marine ingredients in skin supplements and beauty products! Here’s how you can harness the power of the sea
Ease inflammation
with sea salt! Seawater contains dozens of trace elements that relieve inflammation, improving everything from sore muscles to osteoarthritis, says dermatologist Marina Peredo, M.D. Among its most powerful ingredients: magnesium, potassium and calcium, shown to calm the nervous system and ease tension. “When absorbed into the skin, they stimulate circulation to flush out toxins, relaxing muscles and soothing aching joints,” says Dr. Peredo. ✤ Try it! Add 1 cup unrefined sea salt (available at supermarkets) to a hot bath. Soak for 15–20 minutes. For best results, repeat weekly.
Fade fine lines and wrinkles with sea moss!
A beauty booster used in the Northern Atlantic since ancient times, sea moss is often called “nature’s Botox” because it helps stop sagging and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. It’s rich in zinc and selenium, which rev production of collagen and elastin to strengthen connective tissue and tighten skin. ✤ Try it! Find it in capsules like Swanson Premium Full Spectrum Irish Moss ($3 at Swansonvitamins.com) or use it topically in skin products like Cocokind Organic Sea Moss Exfoliator ($17 at Bedbathandbeyond.com).
Live longer
with seaweed! Sea plants like kelp, wakame and nori are more nutritionally dense than any plant found on land, says botanist Stefan Kraan, PH.D. They’re also the top natural source of iodine, which regulates thyroid function and metabolism, plus they help detoxify pollutants and heavy metals from the body. “No wonder seaweed is a staple food of the world’s longest living and healthiest cultures like the Japanese,” Kraan says. ✤ Try it! Find sea kelp, nori and wakame at Asian markets and large supermarkets; add to stir-fries, soups and smoothies.
Brighten your skin
with sea pearls! You don’t need pearl earrings to reap this jewel’s beautifying benefits! Micronized pearl powder, an ancient skincare secret in China using crushed pearls, contains 17 amino acids and 30 trace minerals that even out skin tone and improve texture. Plus, studies show they’re effective against sun damage and hyperpigmentation like age spots! ✤ Try it! Apply topically as a translucent finishing powder; it absorbs oil and reduces shine while improving overall texture. One option: Luz Pearl Powder, $28 at Amazon.com.
Grow thicker hair
with sea silk! Sea silk—the filaments layering sea beds—is chock-full of strengthening proteins and amino acids that promote hair growth. Those include glycine, which is key for producing keratin, the basic building block of hair. The fibers also add moisture, shine and elasticity, bulking up the hair shaft and preventing breakage! ✤ Try it! Find it in hair products like Aquage Hydrating Balm with Sea Silk Therapy ($14 at Amazon.com) or Alterna Caviar Anti-aging Seasilk Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner Duo ($36 for the two at Jet.com). Photos: Getty (5); Jumpfoto.