Did you know over eight million tons of plastic enter the ocean each year? That’s 22 times the size of the Empire State Building. Imagine dumping nearly half of all of New York’s skyscrapers into the ocean!
Whether it’s the air we breathe—oceans produce over 50 percent of the planet’s oxygen—our food, transportation, a source of beauty or even medicine, the seas play a vital role in sustaining life on our planet. But pollution is a major factor in how well our oceans can sustain balanced ecosystems across the globe. Whether it’s plastic straws injuring local wildlife, or difficult-to-clean oil spills, our water sources are at constant risk.
The ocean is a source of important ingredients for beauty products. And if you haven’t heard of “blue beauty”—the awareness of how beauty products are impacting the environment, in terms of package waste, water pollution and more—you will! When it comes to nourishing the skin, think algae, kelp and sea plankton, all sustainably harvested and eco-friendly. Here are a few great marine-based products to try:
Neocell Marine Collagen
Keep your skin glowing and vibrant with this sustainably-sourced supplement. With added hyaluronic acid, you can be sure your skin is getting more of the hydration it needs.
Energy Bits Algae Tablets
There’s a better way to pack in those omega-3s. Algae produces 400 times more protein than beef, and is more sustainable than fish oil, because it doesn’t cause overfishing or lead to coral reef damage. EnergyBits harnesses the power of algae and makes for a nutritious, plant-based snack.
Kani Botanical Beauty Sea Greens Facial Treatment Mask
Another algae-based product, this face mask contains sea kelp, green tea, and chamomile-infused sea clay. Excellent for all types of skin, this deep-cleansing mask absorbs oil and smoothes out the skin’s surface.
Shamanuti Creme No. 1
Whether you’re restoring damaged skin, or just maintaining your youthful glow, Shamanuti’s Crème No. 1, with 100 percent cruelty free ingredients, softens fine lines, wrinkles, and scars. Though no substitute for a clean planet, it also protects skin against environmental pollution.
Nelly De Vuyst BioFemme Soothing Mask
Soothe irritated skin with Nelly De Vuyst’s BioFemme Soothing mask. Made with Aloe Vera, green tea, and chamomile extract, this mask is ideal for post-depilatory care.