Red algae

Algae belongs to the group of photosynthetic organisms exists both in marine and fresh water habitats, commonly known for their uses in food and fuel. Macroalgae popularly called as seaweeds are eukaryotic, macroscopic and multicellular in nature. Macroalgae can be further divided in to three groups depending on their pigmentation like Chlorophyceae (green algae, Phaeophyceae (brown algae), Rhodophyceae (Red algae). Rhodophyceae called as red algae because it impart red color to the thallus. Rhodophyta are cosmopolitan in nature exist from artic to the tropic region. Red algae uniqueness is it can survive deep in sea and absorb blue light, and the red color is due to phycoerythrin pigment which reflects red light. Red algae is a aquatic photoautotrophic plants adds countless benefits to skin since it is a rich source of amino acids, vitamins, minerals. It exerts good antioxidant property by the presence of carotenoids and peptides. It is a natural source for polysaccharides and very effective in skin replenishment and increase in moisture retention efficiency of the skin. Red algae also rich in vitamin C causing skin rejuvenation and used to treat skin blemishes and stabilizing unequal skin tone and complexion. This review gives a detailed description about the use of Red algae in cosmetics.