January 7th, 2009
Posted by copley
Posted by Copley
Hailed as the next wonder anti-aging ingredient, phytessence wakame is derived from an exotic kelp (actually a sea algae) native to the sea of Japan. Belonging to the Phaeophycae Laminariales plant family, phytessence wakame is said to have immune-stimulating, cancer preventing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic properties. Perhaps in part due to the invigorating effects of wakame, it is one of the most commonly eaten algae in Japan. I’m sure that I unknowingly swallowed some of it (along with any number of unidentified foods) while I was in Japan last spring.
Not only can phytessence wakame be eaten both fresh and dried, but it can also be transformed into a cosmetic extract using new technology. Like their wholesome diet, which centers on essential fatty acid-packed raw seafood and antioxidant-rich leafy green vegetables, the Japanese have for centuries assimilated all sorts of naturally occurring elements in their cosmetics, from almond oil to rice bran. Who knew that an indigenous sea kelp is one of their best kept secrets for keeping their skin healthy and youthful?
Loaded with antioxidants, vitamins and protein, this super food is also rich in vital minerals like calcium (15x more than milk), iron, potassium, and sodium, all of which nourish the body inside and out. While polysaccharies function as fibroblast stimulators, oligoelements maintain the skin’ moisture balance. Phytessence wakame is especially good at healing inflamed skin because of its high levels of B-group vitamins, in particular B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6, and B12. It also contains an active ingredient called sulfated polyfucose, which protects cell wall integrity and stability against damaging environmental factors, such as UV light, temperature, and abrasions.
Most importantly, phytessence wakame has demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of the activity of hyaluronidase in vitro. Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that attacks the skin’s supply of hyaluroic acid, which improves elasticity and smoothness. By binding collagen and elastin fibers together, hyaluronic acid makes skin smooth, firm, and flexible. Without hyaluronic acid, elastin and collagen fibers lose their “glue,” leading to a loss of youthful appearance. In inhibiting hyaluronidase, wakame prevents the deterioration of the extracellular matrix, which is a dominant means of defense against visible aging and the weakening of dermal thickness.
Thus, phytessence wakame helps to hamper one of the main factors contributing to skin decline with age. When collagen, a fibrous protein possessing great tensile strength, and elastin, another protein that helps skin stay flexible, start to break down due to aging, skin begins to sag and becomes less firm. Hyaluronidase prevents skin from forming new collagen and elastin molecules because it destroys their connective glue, hyaluronic acid. It seems perfectly logical to include an ingredient that blocks the activity of this unwelcome enzyme in skin care.
I came across phytessence wakame while researching noteworthy ingredients in topical anti-aging products. Though this marine phytoactive often makes an appearance in natural Japanese formulations, it isn’t that common in American products, particularly in concentrations high enough for real results. You’ll find it on ingredients lists under the name Undaria Pinnatifida. Some skin care lines I uncovered that really highlight phytessence wakame are Corrective Skincare and Xtend-Life. Or you could always concoct your own wakame-rich cosmetic using a seaweed extract blend.
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4 Responses to “Phytessence Wakame: What is it”
January 24th, 2009 at 6:10 pm
I would love to incorporate phytessence wakame in my diet. Would anyone know where I can buy this wakame?
Thanks….
January 26th, 2009 at 10:36 am
Wakame is available from most health food stores. One brand is Clearspring, but there are others that are really good, too. Additionally, if you have an Asian food store in your town, you can usually get wakame there. It’s sort of flat and curly around the edges, a little like lasagne except a very deep green colour. One way to use it in cooking is to cut about an inch from the dried length, rinse it, and soak it in a little water. When it’s soft and spongy, cut it into smaller pieces and add to your pot of beans. If you use Adzuki or Mung beans, they’re good ones to start with. Beyond what is said above, wakame has the property of reducing the production of gas associated with beans.
Wakame can be added to stir fry dishes, but it really does taste like seaweed, so if you’re not used to that, use small amounts at first. Well, you’ll probably experiment with what you like!
March 1st, 2009 at 12:06 pm
has anyone tried extend-life skincare products,are there natural?
March 2nd, 2009 at 11:34 am
Lisa, I last week ordered a few items from Xtend-Life. After extensive research, I’m switching my supplements from GNC and my skincare from Riviva Labs.
I was so impressed with Xtend-Life’s business practices and products that I ordered Total Balance Woman’s Multi-Vitamin, Omega-3 Esters, the Day Cream and Eye Gel. I can post a review after two weeks of use.
Google Xtend-Life and try to find a negative posting. Its beyond difficult, however some positive and objective feedback is available.