What is Thalassotherapy?
Thalassotherapy is a combination of the Greek word “Thalasso,” meaning “sea,” and “therapy,” meaning treatment. Today, you see thalassotherapy spas, retreats, and vacations in seaside villages and communities across the globe. But its origins began in ancient times when Greek medical scientist Hippocrates (think “Hippocratic Oath”) believed that the seawater and marine environment contributed to his patient’s health and mental well-being.
We’ve all read about the Romans and their extensive bathing rituals — and many of their public baths were seawater pools, which they considered invigorating and full of health benefits, and they weren’t wrong!
While the practice dates back to ancient times, “Thalassotherapy” was coined in the mid-1800s. It is believed that Dr. Joseph La Bonnardiére, a French doctor who promoted the therapeutic use of seawater and marine elements for his patients, is responsible for the term we use today.
At SeaSoaked Skin, we have created a form of Thalassotherapy through a therapeutic union of marine algae/kelp and mineral salts that deliver world-class results. Marine algae provide hydration and antioxidant benefits—consider it a miracle plant for your skin! Mineral salts are known for their exfoliation and skin revitalization properties.
Although marine algae regenerate quickly in the ocean, we do not take this natural resource from its habitat. Our marine algae are organically farmed, and these farms play an essential role in combating climate change.
Let’s talk nutrients and minerals…
Marine algae are a natural approach to supporting skin health and addressing signs of aging. They are rich in polysaccharides, which are believed to stimulate collagen production, a crucial protein for skin structure and elasticity. Collagen helps to maintain skin firmness and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
In addition, here are some of the vitamins found in marine algae:
Vitamin A: Essential for skin health, promoting cell turnover, and supporting a healthy complexion.
Vitamin B: Includes various B vitamins that play roles in skin metabolism, hydration, and overall skin health.
Vitamin C: An antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radicals and supports collagen synthesis.
Vitamin E: An antioxidant that contributes to skin protection and helps maintain elasticity.Marine algae are rich in essential minerals like:
Iodine: Important for thyroid function, which can indirectly impact skin health.
Iron: Essential for oxygen transport in the blood and maintaining healthy skin color.
Calcium: Crucial for skin cell function and regeneration.
Magnesium: Supports skin hydration and contributes to overall skin health.
Potassium: Helps maintain electrolyte balance and supports hydration.
Amino Acids are the building blocks of proteins, including collagen and elastin, which are crucial for skin structure and elasticity.
Antioxidants help protect the skin from premature aging and damage to skin cells from the environment. Marine algae contains carotenoids and flavonoids, which protect the skin from stress caused by free radicals.
Some compounds found in marine algae exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. These can be beneficial for soothing and calming irritated or inflamed skin, making algae extracts suitable for sensitive or reactive skin. Certain types of algae are believed to have detoxifying properties that may help eliminate impurities and toxins from the skin, leading to a clearer complexion. Algae particles can provide gentle physical exfoliation when used in scrubs or exfoliating masks, which helps remove dead skin cells and promotes a smoother skin texture. Algae-derived ingredients can help moisturize the skin to maintain a supple and healthy complexion. Algae are known for their ability to survive in challenging environmental conditions, including exposure to the sun and saltwater. This resilience may translate into protective benefits for the skin against environmental stressors.
Mineral salts act as natural exfoliants, helping to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote a smoother skin texture. Bathing in water enriched with mineral salts may help improve blood circulation. Enhanced circulation can deliver oxygen and nutrients to skin cells, promoting a healthy complexion!
Mineral salts are believed to have detoxifying properties. They can help draw out impurities and toxins from the skin, supporting the body's natural detoxification processes. Soaking in a bath with mineral salts can help hydrate the skin. The minerals in the salt can attract and retain moisture, preventing dryness and contributing to skin hydration. Bathing in water with mineral salts can relax the muscles and help reduce stress.
Some minerals found in mineral salts, such as magnesium and potassium, play a role in maintaining the skin's pH balance. A balanced pH is essential for healthy skin function.
Mineral salts are also a natural remedy for various skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis, as they can help soothe and alleviate symptoms.