Jamie Matusow, Editor-in-Chief12.06.21
Blue Beauty is a growing trend that supports ocean conservation actions to protect marine ecosystems and enhance biodiversity. The focus is on marine-safe ingredients, zero-waste packaging, direct conservation actions and most importantly, saving our seas.
As a climate, seaweed and Thalasso therapist, Antoinette Marquez, founder of Ama Sea Beauty, works with her team of ocean conservationists, called PharmerSea, which supports Blue Beauty through research and education and consultation nationally in the cultivation of seaweed as “a product that gives more to, than it takes away, from the planet.”
Together, Marquez and PharmerSea are safeguarding a kelp forest off the coast of Santa Barbara, CA. “We are aquaculture researchers and educators, helping industries actively work toward ocean restoration alongside a vibrant seaweed industry,” explains Marquez.
'Sea Beauty Blend'
Named after the Ama Divers of Japan, Marquez developed Ama Sea Beauty to be part of the “blue” economy by offering ocean stewardship through “responsibly developed” consumer goods. All of the brand’s thalassotherapy seaweed-based products contain a base of the “Sea Beauty Blend,” a proprietary blend of hand-harvested, small-batch formulated seaweed concentrate.“Wild, California-grown, nutrient-rich seaweeds are hand-harvested at the peak of growing season, then ocean rinsed and sun-dried to preserve the highest possible mineral content,” according to Marquez. The Sea Beauty Blend is rich in micronutrients and essential minerals, and is highly concentrated and minimally processed. This “scientifically proven” formulation is said to accelerate cellular detoxification, enhance mitochondrial function, and stimulate cell rejuvenation at “the highest possible levels.”
In addition, says Marquez, “A derivative of brown seaweed extract, alginate is an excellent carrier for antioxidants and other anti-aging ingredients, and offers an excellent skin feel. It softens, hydrates and soothes skin, leaving it feeling silky and soft.”
Ama Sea’s “restorative and regenerative” products were created for morning, evening and bath time skin care routines, and include SeaMist Marine Mineral Toner ($50); VitaSea Hydrator ($63); DeepSea Microalgae Serum ($75); and SeaGrains Facial Cleanser ($25)
Packaging Evolves for the Planet
Through her actions, Marquez hopes to inspire change across the board in the cosmetics industry. She tells Beauty Packaging:“My Blue Dream includes not only healthy oceans, but clean water and air, a cool planet and a blissful future inclusive to every species for generations to come. When the product is the solution, we can drive action across the entire value chain. We can create a dream that upholds a responsible future and mandate others to do the same."
Marquez continues, "The beauty industry can offer so much more than effective products in pretty packaging. It is up to us to propel a chain of change through creative innovation and swift effective action. For today’s consumers, sustainability should be a given, responsible sourcing is expected, authenticity is valued and brands with a heart are sought after. I believe we have a beautiful opportunity to be the face of change.”
As far as sustainability and packaging of her products, Marquez says, “Ama Sea Beauty was developed using mindful practices that take people and planet into consideration every step of the way. Sustainability can be seen in every process: from highly effective wild hand-harvested ingredient concentrates that allow you to use less with the same efficacy, to recyclable glass bottles and recycled pack materials."
She adds, "Our next launch will be an offering of our line 100% plastic-free. We are currently as close as we can get while still utilizing a pump delivery. The eco-line bottles will use metal screw-on lids instead. We challenge consumers to forego a small convenience for the sake of our planet in going plastic free.”
Ultimately, says Marquez, “A purchase of Ama Sea Beauty helps us restore coastal marine habitats and biodiversity— directly addressing climate stability through proof of a Blue Economy.”