Value-Added Products from Microalgae - Biotechnological Applications of Microalgae - page 151

such as anti-aging creams and moisturizers, sun protection products, hair care
products, refresherant or regenerant care products, emollients, and anti-irritant
skin peels (Spolaore et al., 2006; Carlsson et al., 2007). Arthrospira ( Spirulina ) and
Chlorella sp. are the two main genera that have established positions in the skin care
market (Table 10.9).
The LVMH Group (Louis Vuitton and Moët Hennessey) (Paris, France) and
Danial Jouvance (Carnac, France) have both invested in microalgal production sys-
tems (Spolaore et al., 2006; and Kim et al., 2008). It is evident that the largest mar-
ket for micro- and macroalgal cosmetics is in France, with a demand estimated at
5,000 tonnes (Kim et al., 2008). This demand will continue to escalate, with the
cosmetic industry evincing more interest as research and extensive studies progres-
sively highlight the benefits of microalgal extracts on skin health.

TABLE 10.9
Cosmetic Companies Producing Commercial Products Formulated with
Microalgal Extracts

Commercially
Exploited
Microalgae

Company Product Effects and Benefits

Exsymol SAM, Monaco
www.exsymol.com

Arthrospira
( Spirulina )

Protulines ®
(protein-rich extract)

Anti-aging,
skin-tightening effect
Prevents stria formation

Codif Recherché et
Nature, St Malo, France
http://www.codif-
recherche-et-nature.com

Chlorella
vulgaris

Dermochlorella ®
(extract)

Stimulates collagen
synthesis
Supports tissue
regeneration
Wrinkle reduction

Pentapharm,
Basel Switzerland
www.pentapharm.com

Nannochloropsis
oculata

Pepha ® -Tight
(ingredient)

Long- and short-term
skin-tightening effects

Dunaliella
salina

Pepha ® -Ctive
(ingredient)

Stimulate cell proliferation
and turnover
Positively influence skin
cell metabolism

AGI Dermatics Inc.
www.remergentskin.com

Anacystis
nidulans

Remergent™
DNA Repair Formula

Repairs UV damaged skin
Resists future photo-
damage through natural
recuperation

Company details withheld D. salina Blue Retinol™ Stimulates cell growth and

proliferation

Marestil ® (Extract) Strong moisturizing,

elasticizing, and toning
complex

Source: Adapted from Spolaore et al. (2006) and Kim et al. (2008).