The algae are harvested by centrifugation and then lyophilized before being extracted in propylene glycol. Haslea ostrearia is a rich source of vitamin E as well as many minerals including zinc, iron, copper and gold. As the skin ages, it is exposed to various irritants that can contribute to premature aging, such as ultra-violet light, pollution and stress. The skin must also protect itself against internally-derived irritations resulting from very complex processes involving multiple responses. One of these responses is the release of collagenase from dermal and inflammatory cells.
Collagenase is an enzyme that attacks the most abundant structural protein in the skin, collagen.
When collagen begins to degrade, the skin no longer has the resilience or tone which is so indicative of young, healthy skin. By preventing or slowing the activity of collagenase and other proteolytic enzymes, the skin can retain its resilience and youthful appearance. The Extracellular Matrix Assay uses a biologically synthesized radiolabeled interstitial matrix containing high levels of elastin as a substrate. Blue Algae Extract and human neutrophils are added simultaneously to the matrix. A phorbol ester is used to irritate the neutrophils causing a release of degradative elastase enzymes.