The Potential of Spirulina and Its Bioactive Metabolites as Ingested Agents for Skin Care

Abstract

Nutrition is one of the most important parameters involved in modulating skin health and condition. In this regard, the demand for natural compounds capable of promoting skin health and beauty has been attracting the attention of researchers and companies around the world. An interesting option to meet this demand is the use of Spirulina microalga, which has biotechnological potential, including several functional and nutritional applications. Although this microalga has been used in human nutrition since ancient times, it now has new applications and is being studied as a promising ingredient for nutricosmetics. The present review article summarizes Spirulina's most relevant activities, mainly its biologically active metabolites, which are interesting ingredients for nutricosmetic formulations and an important advance for skin care.