While seaweed, which is considered macroalgae, has received a great deal of acclaim in the beauty and wellness space (think: detoxifying seaweed body wraps or healthy seaweed salads), its lesser-known “cousin,” microalgae, is starting to gain attention in the form of algae oil. You may have heard—or even used—beauty products formulated with algae oil to calm skin, but what about your scalp? In fact, algae oil is believed to wield a number of benefits for both scalp and hair. To find out more, we turned to dermatologists Marisa Garshick and Macrene Alexiades, and trichologist, Gretchen Friese.
Meet the Expert
- Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist. She is also a Clinical Assistant Professor at Cornell.
- Macrene Alexiades, MD, Ph.D., FAAD, is a double board-certified dermatologist in the US and EU. She is the founder and director of NY Derm, her dermatology, laser surgery, and research center in NYC.
- Gretchen Friese is BosleyMD’s trichologist. She is also a hairstylist and salon director at Foushee SalonSpa in Denver.
Keep on reading to see what they had to say about the benefits of algae oil and how to incorporate it into your hair care routine.
What Is Algae Oil?
Algae oil is produced from certain species of microalgae, which are usually raised in a laboratory for their high content of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. It is an ingredient that can be found in a number of beauty products ranging from skincare to haircare.
Algae Oil for Hair
- Type of ingredient: Anti-inflammatory
- Main benefits: Promotes a healthy scalp, regulates oil production, and smooths hair
- Who should use it: In general, anyone can benefit from algae oil for their hair, but especially those with dandruff, inflammation, or oily scalps. It may also have the potential to increase hair thickness, so it may provide additional benefits to those with thinning hair.
- How often can you use it: If applying topically, algae oil can be used up to twice daily. Oral supplements are typically taken daily, but a doctor should be consulted before beginning any new supplements.
- Works well with: Moringa and mint oils
- Don’t use with: There are no known ingredients that negatively interfere with algae oil.
Benefits of Algae Oil for Hair
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-1315668638-873dd9c712504d678f32c0c6abca0248.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-9547287721-b85e65a132ae4a37be448ab4f75b1b23.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/11207488-1144589050054287-89f99eb6aa8f44fda976a0d55ade6a80.jpeg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/brigeodontdespairrepair-4ec4119348af4d86b32f2315ddb67392.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/BOSREVIVE-NT-Nor-Shampoo-dcde97c4b37749dfaedf658a9cbb62a8.jpg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/bumble_mild_marine_conditioner_4_1_1-371f87c43679473e8f2ccd6dfb05b936.jpeg)
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/camillerosealgaerenew-513fb93ab1c64334b1fd67890f92e252.jpg)
Camille Rose
Algae Renew Deep Conditioning Mask
$20.00
This deep conditioning mask by natural hair care brand Camille Rose is a feast for the senses. Formulated with blue algae, cocoa, and mango butter, it aims to revitalize undernourished locks. Hair will look healthier, feel softer, and smell like a dream.
FAQ
-
Is algae oil sustainable?
Some species of microalgae produce a level of omega-3 fatty acids that is similar to that of fish oil, potentially making it a more sustainable source of omega-3 than fishing.
-
Does algae oil pose any side effects?
Generally speaking, no. But if you are applying topically, you should always perform a patch test first. Before taking orally, always consult a medical professional.
-
Can I make a DIY hair mask using algae oil?
Our experts recommend looking for products with algae oil as a listed ingredient versus applying it directly to your hair and scalp.
How to Use Eucalyptus Oil for a Calm Scalp and Healthy Hair
