Seaweed, now celebrated as a super plant, has evolved in this country from being associated with poverty and as a famine food to becoming a prized Irish natural resource because of its remarkable benefits. The nutrient-rich marine plant is packed-full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a powerhouse ingredient for health and wellness products.
Sligo based organic skincare and wellness brand, VOYA, is at the forefront of seaweed harvesting and seaweed product usage, more than any other brand in Ireland. According to husband-and-wife duo, Mark and Kira Walton (founders ); “Irish seaweed is the best in the world and a highly regarded ingredient that Ireland is becoming known for.”
The current global surge in seaweed's popularity, both in cuisine and skincare, underscores the growing appreciation and understanding of this super plant’s incredible natural benefits, for the body, mind, and skin.
The Incredible Health Benefits of Seaweed
Seaweed boasts a treasure trove of essential nutrients, including iodine, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, E, and K. VOYA harnesses the power of this incredible natural resource by incorporating it into their product range. Backed by scientific research, VOYA has integrated the exceptional powers of Irish seaweed into their formulations, delivering benefits that range from overall well-being and relaxation, to glowing, radiant skin.
Speaking of seaweed’s remarkable benefits, Mark Walton, Co-Founder of VOYA, states; “We've been using seaweed as our hero ingredient for over 17 years, and as the science behind this super plant progresses, we continually learn about its ever-increasing health and wellness benefits. For example, seaweed's natural anti-inflammatory properties can soothe the skin, while its rich iodine content supports thyroid health and reduces anxiety.
“Furthermore, we carefully select different species of seaweed to use in specific products, depending on the desired results. It’s amazing how different species offer varying benefits. For example, the Fucus Serratus species is known for its high antioxidant properties, helping to protect the skin from free radical damage, which can lead to premature ageing. Or, the Fucus Vesiculosus variant is known for its ability to improve skin hydration and elasticity. Laminaria Digitata is hailed for its ability to stimulate collagen production.”
VOYA has been at the forefront of organic Irish skincare and wellness for many years. The wonders of VOYA’s hand-harvested seaweed can also be experienced in a myriad of luxury VOYA spa treatments, designed to invigorate both your body and mind. The Sligo brand now boasts partnerships in many of the most luxurious spas and hotels across the world.
Co-founder, Kira Walton, highlights her top seaweed product picks to meet various individual needs:
Lazy Days: A detoxifying seaweed bath soak that helps to relax muscles, reduce tension, and hydrate the skin. The Irish Fucus Serratus Seaweed used has been proven to increase the skin’s ability to fight against free radicals by 724 per cent.
Seaweed Soap: A cleansing and exfoliating soap bar that contains organic seaweed extracts, hand-harvested off the west coast of Ireland. The soap combines the purifying properties of seaweed with a refreshing scent to invigorate the skin.
Renewal Eyes: An under-eye patch that is nothing but pure Laminaria Digitata Irish seaweed, used to reduce puffiness and dark circles, while providing intense hydration. VOYA’s scientific studies confirm that this seaweed species increases collagen production in the skin by over 202 per cent.
My Little Hero Serum: A powerful serum that harnesses the anti-aging properties of Fucus Serratus Irish seaweed and sunflower seed oil, to hydrate and strengthen the skin. The seaweed used also boosts skin radiance and firmness.
VOYA products are available for purchase online at www.voya.ie and in-store across leading premium Irish retailers such as Brown Thomas, Arnotts, AVOCA and Kilkenny Design.
