They grow in the sea, in lakes and in rivers and have adapted to a wide range of environmental conditions over millions of years. Many algae species develop substances that help them withstand intense sun, salt or drought.
That is exactly what makes algae interesting for skincare. Depending on the species, they contain minerals, trace elements, amino acids or polysaccharides, among others – substances that are used specifically in cosmetic formulations. At hyapur®, algae can be found in the four hyaluronic acid algae serums and in the Algae Gel.
What are algae in skincare?
"Algae" sounds like a single ingredient. In fact, the term covers thousands of different species. Each has its own composition and plays a different role in a formulation. That is why it is always worth checking which algae extract is actually included – and not just whether algae are used at all.
In the ingredient list (INCI), you can recognise the algae by its Latin name, for example Porphyra Umbilicalis Extract or Chlorella Vulgaris Extract.
The algae in hyapur® products at a glance
| Algae | Name in the INCI list | Contained in |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow algae (Porphyra umbilicalis) | Porphyra Umbilicalis Extract | Yellow Serum |
| Red algae (Furcellaria lumbricalis) | Sodium Carrageenan | Red Serum |
| Brown algae (Undaria pinnatifida, wakame) | Undaria Pinnatifida Extract | Nude Serum |
| Green algae (Chlorella vulgaris) | Chlorella Vulgaris Extract | Green Serum |
| Brown algae from Brittany (Laminaria digitata) | Algin, Calcium Alginate | Algae Gel |
The five algae and what they do in skincare
Yellow algae (Porphyra umbilicalis) – Yellow Serum
Porphyra umbilicalis is a saltwater algae. It grows in coastal regions, where it is exposed to strong sunlight. Yellow algae contains special amino acids. Together with high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, it cares for your skin during the day and gives you a fresh, even complexion.
Important: The Yellow Serum is a care product, not a sunscreen. Apply your sunscreen as usual as the last step.
Red algae (Furcellaria lumbricalis) – Red Serum
Red algae is one of the saltwater algae. In the INCI list of the Red Serum, it appears as Sodium Carrageenan. Red algae and hyaluronic acid help your skin to bind moisture. The Red Serum gives your skin intensive, long-lasting hydration – the thirst quencher for dry skin.
Brown algae (Undaria pinnatifida) – Nude Serum
Undaria pinnatifida is a brown algae and is known in Asia as wakame. It is rich in antioxidants, fucans and polyphenols. Brown algae helps to boost collagen production. Combined with hyaluronic acid, your skin looks firmer, smoother and plumper. The Nude Serum is ideal for mature skin.
Green algae (Chlorella vulgaris) – Green Serum
Green algae is rich in carotenoids, amino acids and peptides. It provides important nutrients and helps to strengthen a heavily stressed skin structure. The Green Serum helps to reduce redness and dark circles and visibly soothes your skin.
Brown algae from Brittany (Laminaria digitata) – Algae Gel
The Algae Gel contains algin (alginic acid), a natural polysaccharide from the brown algae Laminaria digitata from the coast of Brittany. Alginic acid attracts dead skin cells and toxins like a magnet and binds them – so the gel cleanses deep into the pores and clarifies the skin. Mixed with water, the pad turns into a velvety gel that you can use as a gentle peeling or as a mask.
Why hyapur® combines algae with hyaluronic acid
In the hyaluronic acid algae serums, the two ingredients have different roles. High molecular weight hyaluronic acid immediately binds moisture on the skin's surface so that it feels refreshed and looks smoother. The algae extract supports the skin's specific care needs.
Each serum deliberately relies on a single algae extract. This way, every serum is clearly focused on one skin need. You can find out more about the difference between high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid in our guide Hyaluronic acid molecular weight.
Which algae serum suits your skin?
- Dry skin, maximum hydration: Red Serum
- Redness and sensitive skin: Green Serum
- Mature skin, firming: Nude Serum
- Light care for the day: Yellow Serum
Would you like to try all four? With the set of all four serums, you can respond to your skin's needs day by day.
How to use the algae serums
- Cleanse and tone your face.
- Apply 1–2 drops of the serum to slightly damp skin and gently pat it in.
- Let the serum absorb completely.
- Apply your moisturiser.
You can combine the serums – but do not layer them on top of each other. Use them alternately, for example one serum in the morning and another in the evening, or week by week. Use the Algae Gel 1–2 times a week as a special treatment and then apply a hyaluronic acid algae serum.
Frequently asked questions about algae in skincare
Which algae does hyapur® use?
Yellow algae (Porphyra umbilicalis) in the Yellow Serum, red algae (Furcellaria lumbricalis) in the Red Serum, brown algae (Undaria pinnatifida) in the Nude Serum, green algae (Chlorella vulgaris) in the Green Serum and brown algae from Brittany (Laminaria digitata) in the Algae Gel.
Can I use several algae serums at the same time?
Yes, but not on top of each other. Alternate them: one serum in the morning, the other in the evening, or week by week.
Does the Yellow Serum replace sunscreen?
No. The Yellow Serum is a care product, not a sunscreen. Apply your sunscreen as usual as the last step.
How long do the algae serums last after opening?
The hyaluronic acid algae serums last 12 months after opening.
Where are the serums made?
hyapur® produces exclusively in Germany.
Where can I find all the ingredients of hyapur® products?
In the INCI glossary.
