Phycocyanin
Antioxidant
Phycocyanin at a glance
- Antioxidant-rich algae extract that helps skin defend itself against environmental stressors
- Provides soothing benefits, especially great for reactive or compromised skin
- Certain types of phycocyanins show potential for visibly reducing the appearance of skin discolorations
- Most stable when air and light exposure are limited, hence jar packaging is not recommended
Phycocyanin description
Phycocyanin is an extract derived from algae that can help protect skin from environmental stressors due to its antioxidant power. Research shows it also delivers soothing properties, making this a welcome ingredient for any skin type, but especially compromised or reactive skin. Phycocyanins can be derived from different types of algae and are divided into three classifications: cyano-phycocyanin (derived from blue-green algae), R-phycocyanin (derived from red algae), and allophycocyanin, derived from both blue-green algae and red algae. Cyano-phycocyanin in particular has been studied for its ability to visibly mitigate the appearance of skin discolorations and shows promise in this regard. Newer researchers also include a fourth type, R-phycocyanin II, which is derived from marine cyanobacterium Synechococcus species. Thanks to their natural pigments, phycocyanins are being explored as color additives for cosmetics, in addition to their skin benefits. Due to phycocyanin’s high molecular weight, some chemists prefer utilizing encapsulation methods that enhance the delivery and penetration into skin. As with other antioxidants, phycocyanins remain the most stable when air and light exposure are limited, hence it’s best if skin care products containing phycocyanin do not come in packaging such as jars.