such as these will not solve all of the aging concerns of the skin , they may help significantly . “ Photoprotection of the skin has been demonstrated to help preserve the natural beauty of the skin ; [ and ] the use of marine-based photoprotective chemicals may significantly contribute to skin care in the years to come ,” Prystowsky says .
Skin fragility — a concern that increases with age , and often becomes an issue for those in their 70s and beyond — is another aspect that may be addressed by ingredients gathered from the sea . “ Sun-damaged skin becomes more fragile than sun-protected skin with advancing age ,” she notes . “ So sun protection chemicals from marine algae could have another important role to play in maintaining structure and function of the skin as one ages .”
Cheri Rampacek , Spa Director at Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa , says the spa has always offered saltwater-derived ingredients in treatments . She speculates that part of their popularity may have to do with an increased awareness of the threats to this watery ecosystem . She adds that her current favorite oceanic skin care ingredient is Fucus serratus , a nourishing North Atlantic seaweed more commonly called toothed or serrated wrack .
“ The extracted oils from seaweed have a high mineral and vitamin content ,” Rampacek explains . “ Seaweed is known as
Top Left : Products from VOYA , a natural skin care company that utilizes hand-harvested seaweed , are featured at The Catamaran Spa in treatments like the Seaweed Leaf Wrap and the Lavender & Seaweed Sugar Glow Scrub . Top Right : the spa ’ s whirlpool bath . Right : a treatment room ideal for relaxation at the Catamaran
an antioxidant and as an anti-inflammatory that rejuvenates and nourishes skin .”
Indeed , the array of health benefits derived from seaweeds includes an estimated 60 minerals , such as calcium , potassium , magnesium , manganese , iodine and phosphorus ; essential amino acids , omega 3 and 6 ; plus vitamins A , B , C , E and K .
Within the luxurious sanctuary of The Catamaran Spa , San Diego ’ s only beach front spa , guests can indulge in a variety of therapies infused with ingredients sourced from beneath the waves . These include the detoxifying Organic Seaweed Leaf Ritual : a soak enhanced by VOYA bath salts featuring Fucus serratus seaweed , and exfoliation with an organic bladderwrack body buff , is followed by a body wrap in Laminaria digitata seaweed leaves . This brown algae is commonly known as oarweed and is rich in nourishing essential minerals . The treatment concludes with a customized massage incorporating a nourishing seaweed infused oil .
Other choices at the spa include the Organic Spiced Seaweed Mud Wrap , with dry brushing as well as a full-body wrap , seaweed-rich moisturizing treatment and massage ; the Organic Luscious Glow , featuring a gentle scrub with Dead Sea salts and organic seaweed oil , also followed by a Swiss shower rinse and a soothing helping of a moisturizing oil that ’ s laced with seaweed ; and the Deep-Cleansing Sea Mud Facial , which includes two face masks to rid pores of dirt and toxins while the sea mud works to balance pH levels in the skin .
From relaxing full-body massages to rejuvenating facials , spa treatments that utilize marine-based ingredients offer benefits from head to toe . g
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