Considered a “super food”, spirulina is an algae rich in proteins, carotenoids and iron. It is the ally of skin and hair. But then, what are its virtues exactly? Explanations.
New to spirulina? This algae, which originated almost 3.8 billion years ago, has some superpowers. It is not only capable of bringing vitality to the body, but it is also the beauty ally par excellence. On the plate, as a face mask, in hair care or food supplements, spirulina is – almost – everywhere. " Spirulina is a cyanobacterium of the Cyanophyceae family, that is to say, a bacterium that performs photosynthesis », Explains Emilie Jolibois, Cosmetic Ingredient Research Expert at Aroma-Zone. " It is therefore rich in chlorophyll, but also in phycocyanin, a bluish pigment which plays a role in photosynthesis. This cyanobacterium occurs in the form of a spiral filament, hence its name, and develops naturally in tropical or subtropical waters, in lakes or lagoons. It naturally proliferates in brackish water (salty but not as much as sea water, editor's note) and alkaline, rich in minerals and trace elements and needs heat and light to accomplish photosynthesis ". Today, for the needs of food supplements and cosmetics, it is cultivated in ponds, in controlled water.
What is the composition of spirulina?
Spirulina contains proteins, vitamins, antioxidants, trace elements and minerals. " Its protein content is over 60%. But it is also rich in carotenoids, vitamin E, gamma-linolenic acid (omega-6), phycocyanin (known for antioxidant effects), chlorophyll, zinc but also minerals, such as iron, calcium, magnesium », Explains Emilie Jolibois.
What are the benefits of spirulina on the hair?
The virtues of spirulina are numerous. Recognized for its benefits on the body and the beauty of the skin, it is also the hair's best ally. " Being very rich in proteins and minerals, spirulina has a fortifying effect on the hair », Explains Emilie Jolibois. " It is used in rinsed form, because of its intense green color, in masks mixed with other powders such as neutral henna, marshmallow, rhassoul, and water, forming a paste that is left on then that we rinse "
In food use, it is also very useful in the event of tired, limp hair, even in the event of hair loss " thanks to the essential nutrients it provides, including iron and amino acids and vitamins, such as provitamin E and vitamin E, which help to maintain healthy hair and grow hair. Its richness in antioxidants also helps to fight against premature aging favored by stress, pollution, tobacco… which also have negative effects ". These factors promote the formation of gray hair.
In what form is spirulina found?
" Spirulina is mainly found in powder form that is very easy to use, whether for cosmetic or food use », Informs Emilie Jolibois. "This powder can simply be dispersed in a glass of water or fruit juice, or incorporated into smoothies (1 teaspoon in your morning fruit juice or a smoothie for example). You can also put it in empty capsules ". In cosmetics, it is also found in the form of care or serum.
Product selection:
Organic spirulina powder from Aroma-Zone
Composition: proteins, more than 70% of its dry matter, vitamins A and E, with strong anti-oxidant power. It is used as an ingredient in various preparations: anti-aging care with a marine connotation: creams, gels, restorative and fortifying care for the keratin of the hair, nails and eyelashes
Price: 3.50 euros. Available on the Aroma-Zone website
The specialist advises, in general, to consume between 1 and 5 g of spirulina per day, in cures.
Spirulina is also found in the form of ready-made food supplements, whether in capsules, tablets or in the form of dried filaments or flakes.
Product selection:
Vegan and organic spirulina food supplements from Waam
Composition: phycocyanin, iron, magnesium, chlorophyll, beta-carotene, carotenoids, group B vitamins (vitamin B12)
Price: 23.80 euros. Available on the WAAM website.
Organic spirulina from Nutrimea
540 tablets for a six-month cure. Composition: these food supplements are rich in protein, antioxidants, iron and are free of excipients.
Price: Available on Amazon
MiYé anti-hair loss serum
This organic hair serum has been specially formulated to restore the vitality and density of the hair. 50 ml dropper bottle. Composition: pea shoot extract, vegetable keratin, spirulina extract, aloe vera, ginkgo biloba.
Price: 35 euros, available on the MiYé website
Homemade masks, shampoos and conditioners recipes
Emilie Jolibois book recipes for masks, shampoo and conditioner with spirulina to make at home.
Spirulina fortifying conditioner
Spirulina powder: 2 tbsp. soup
Marshmallow powder: 2 tbsp. soup
Combine the powders in a bowl, then gradually add hot tap water to form a smooth, even paste. Use the dough right away.
Apply the paste to wet hair, leave for 10 minutes and rinse with clean water.
Spirulina "paste" shampoo for tired hair
Shikakai powder: 2 tbsp. soup
Rhassoul powder: 1 tbsp. soup
Spirulina powder: 1 tsp. soup
Combine the powders in a bowl, then gradually add hot tap water to form a smooth, even paste. Use the dough right away.
Apply the paste in massage on the wet scalp. Leave on for 5 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
Spirulina "minute" boost shampoo
Neutral shampoo 1 tsp. soup
Spirulina powder ½ tsp. coffee
Optional: Complete Ylang-ylang essential oil: 1 drop
Combine the ingredients in a small bowl, then use the mixture right away.
Apply the mixture in massage on the wet hair. Leave on for 5 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
Tip: You can incorporate ½ teaspoon of spirulina in your dose of neutral shampoo or neutral hair mask before use, provided you stick to a "minute" mixture that you make just before and that you use completely, because this type of mixture will not keep
Are there any contraindications?
" In food use, spirulina is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is also not recommended for people suffering from phenylketonuria or excess uric acid, gout or kidney stones, and of course for people allergic to spirulina », Informs Emilie Jolibois.
What are the little extras to have beautiful hair?
Consider adopting a hair beauty routine
Moisturize your hair with oils and water. Also consider feeding them vegetable oils, such as castor bean or jojoba oil. Also limit the use of hair straighteners and hot plates.
Read also : 4 reasons to adopt a specific hair routine in winter.
Take care of your diet
Renowned for its nutritional richness, spirulina makes it possible to fill certain deficiencies. But the beauty and health of hair depend, above all, on a healthy, varied and balanced diet. Choose good foods rich in vitamins and minerals. Limit your intake of sugar and bad fats.
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