The idea that anything branded ‘skincare’ can be described as ‘unusual’ (complex chemical compounds aside) is a minefield, running up against cultural contexts and personal preferences. Caviar-infused, charcoal-spiked, caffeine-boosted… the list can be endless. Sure, some of these may seem slightly familiar today, but over the years, creatures like snails, snakes and bees have inched their way from the outdoors to skincare concoctions. But are these bizarre additives actual glow givers or simply advertising gimmicks? To find out, we caught up with two experts, New York-based dermatologist Dr Joshua Zeichner and Ginger King, a cosmetic chemist from New Jersey, who uncover nine weird (yet seemingly wonderful) ingredients and the beauty payoff they offer. Plus, some lotions and potions worth checking out that feature them.
1. Red algae
A distinctive type of algae species, red algae are mostly found in freshwater lakes. Besides being a natural food source for fish and other aquatic animals, this protein-rich, vitamin-laced algae is considered a delicacy in Japan and the North Atlantic. The University of California, Berkeley claims phycoerythrin (the pigment found in red algae) “reflects red light and absorbs blue light”. We already have enough research that prove millions of tiny particles of blue light travel from your smart devices down to the deepest level of your skin to decompose the collagen and elastin necessary to ward off wrinkles. “Red algae contains high levels of carotenoid antioxidants, which not only gives the algae its red colour, but also protects the skin from free radical damage,” explains Dr Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in the dermatology department at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York.