Algae-based ingredient can have immediate lifting effect claims Frutarom

To coincide with the launch of a new preservative-free version of the ingredient, Alguard premium, Frutarom has published recent research on the ingredient that suggests it can decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and decrease skin roughness immediately after application.

It is this combined effect that makes for a distinctive ingredient, project development manager for cosmetics Anat Stern explained.

“The immediate effect is important since it creates a unique ingredient that protects the skin in long-term use but will give you a ‘glamour’ look from the first use.” ​

Alguard is derived from a polysaccharide that forms a protective shield around a microalgae living in deep ocean zones, the company explained.

Frutarom claims that this polysaccharide amour is the secret to the survival of the microalgae, which have to withstand a harsh environment.

Immediate effect on appearance of fine lines​

According to the company’s study results application of Alguard 5 percent can clearly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles when compared to baseline levels, and reduce skin roughness by an average of 24 percent.

“As a polysaccharide it tends to contract and lift the skin wrinkles beneath it,”​ Stern told CosmeticsDesign.com USA, to explain the mechanism behind the ingredients immediate effect.

The study, performed for Frutarom by the Israeli Skin Research Institute, involved 10 women who applied Alguard 5 percent to one side of their face and a pure Alguard extract to the other.

According to Stern, the 5 percent Alguard supplied enough polysaccharide to have an effect, and, although not tested the company assumes lower concentrations may also work.

Triple guard solution ​

Reflecting the role of the polysaccharide for the algae, the company claims that the ingredients efficacy lies in its ability to protect the skin from a variety of stresses.

“Alguard acts as a triple-guard solution for a variety of cosmetic applications,”​ Stern said.

Firstly, the ingredient can directly protect the skin from irritants and oxidative damage, secondly by countering bacterial adhesion and thirdly by helping to protect the skin immune cells from UVB radiation, Stern explained.